Simple ways to have an efficient septic tank

The function of a septic tank is quite simple, capture the sludge/solids from wastewater that enters it, and allow any wastewater to pass through it.

Bacteria play an important role in breaking down the solids that are captured in the tank. The more effectively your bacteria breakdown the solids, the more efficient your tank will operate. It is just as important to ensure the infrastructure (inlet pipes, the tank and distribution lines) on your tank is well maintained to allow water to freely pass through it.  Below are some simple things you can control to get the maximum efficiency out of your septic tank.

• What goes down your drains, sinks and toilets ends up in your septic tank, if you use your septic tank as a rubbish bin or ash tray, it will block up. Under no circumstances should you flush nappies, sanitary products, coffee grounds, disposal face wipes, cotton buds or kitty litter down your toilet or sinks.
• Refrain from using strong cleaners. Acidic cleaners and bleaches can quickly kill the beneficial bacteria in your septic tank, by either increasing or decreasing the alkalinity of the water.
• Look after your tank, by scheduling regular cleans to remove sludge from the tank before it enters distribution lines. Sludge can block distribution lines which results in expensive repairs and an inefficient drainage. If you have a Waste Water Treatment System it is recommended to regularly service your pumps and aeration systems.
• Don’t drive, place heavy objects, or have livestock over your distribution lines. Distribution lines are fragile and can easily be damaged.
• Try to avoid planting trees, shrubs, gardens over or near your inlet pipes to the septic tank, over your septic tank or over your distribution lines. Tree roots block pipes and septic tanks.
• Use environmental friendly detergents and toilet paper. They breakdown quicker and are friendly to the bacteria that break down the solids in your septic tank.
• Avoid pouring grease, cooking oils and fats down the drain, they quickly accumulate in pipes and the tank and cause them to block.
• Never pour paints, insecticides, dangerous, hazardous or combustible chemicals down your drain. The bacteria in your tank can’t break them down, and they will more than likely kill the bacteria in your tank.
• Practice water efficiency in your house. Septics can become overloaded on days of long showers and numerous loads of washing.