17/03/2024
Installation of your wastewater septic system is just the beginning.
As a homeowner, it is your responsibility to maintain your wastewater system, this helps to ensure the protection of your property, family, neighbours, and our shared backyard.
Servicing should be done by a suitably qualified service technician such as the experts on the Barrier Drainage team. Since servicing only takes place once every 6-12 months there are things you can do in between to ensure the system is working at its best.
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
Clean Your Septic Outlet Filter.
On traditional septic systems and the septic stage of an aerated system, there will be an outlet filter.
This stops small, suspended particles from progressing through the tanks and blocking any further filters or the irrigation system.
Typically, there will be a 100 or 150mm pipe poking out of the ground at the outlet end of your septic tank. After removing the cap, you should see a filter down in the pipe, it will have a handle at the top. Remove this filter by pulling on it (you may want gloves), it could require some effort due to rubber seals around the filter.
Once removed, hose off the build-up on the filter and replace it in the tank; be sure to push it all the way down.
Flush Your Irrigation
The irrigation system can become compromised if it begins to block with fine particles or bacteria that have passed through the system.
If some lines are blocked, it will put pressure on the rest of the irrigation system and can cause ponding or runoff of water. More serious blockage puts pressure on the discharge pump leading to extra wear and tear and eventual pump failure.
To flush the lines, simply open the taps or remove caps and run fresh water into the pump chamber at the end of the Wastewater Treatment System. This allows fresh water to pass through the lines, purging contaminants out the end of the lines.
All irrigation systems will have flushing points somewhere, normally at the end of the irrigation lines.
Watch What Goes Down the Drain
Every onsite wastewater system relies on a biological process to breakdown and treat your waste, whether it be worms in a vermiculture system or bacteria in an aerated system or septic tank.
Please avoid:
Excessive fat
Grease
Strong acids (citrus cleaners, or commercial cleaning products)
Strong alkalis
Oil, paint, and other toxic chemicals
Excess milk
Without being ridiculous, your treatment system prefers a fairly neutral pH. Cleaners in moderation won’t kill everything, as they will be diluted by the volume of water going down the drain; but it is important to be mindful of your microscopic friends outside.
For any questions don't hesitate to give Jono a call on 0211279190
