DIY septic cleaning is generally not recommended. Instead, you should schedule for professional cleaning when your tank is due as per your septic cleaning schedule or when you notice signs that your tank needs cleaning.
It may seem like you will save money by doing it yourself, but you need to consider some reasons why it may not be the best idea after all.
A Laborious Undertaking
Septic cleaning involves a rather laborious process.
- As the population in cities continues to grow, many people are moving to regional Australia for a more comfortable life. Unfortunately, infrastructure development in the new suburbs has been slow. It is particularly the case for wastewater treatment systems because the areas are far from centralised sewerage lines. As such, regional communities have turned to decentralised wastewater treatment systems as a viable solution. However, most communities are unfamiliar with decentralised systems, making maintenance challenging.
- Sewage and effluent (wastewater) from homes contain parasites and microorganisms that cause diseases and environmental damage. The safe disposal of such effluent should be a priority for shrewd homeowners. Septic tank systems facilitate treatment and disposal of sewage and effluent in homes which are connected to a sewer system. Here are some fundamentals about septic tanks that homeowners must know. Approvals Since a septic tank installation project is sensitive, you must apply to a relevant agency such as your local authority or public health office.
- If your home runs on a septic system, wastewater from the house travels through the main sewer line into the septic tank. In the tank, bacteria digest organic matter and separate solid waste from the water. After that, the wastewater leaves the septic tank and is discharged to a drain field or leach field where pollutants in the wastewater are removed. The wastewater is then distributed through some perforated pipes for treatment.
- If you reside in a remote part of Australia or have a holiday home in a location that is not connected to the municipal council's sewerage system, it is highly likely that you have a septic tank installed on the property. These receptacles offer a convenient way to eliminate wastewater and are typically designed to be used for a long time. However, just as other household items, septic systems do have a shelf life, and it is prudent to know when to replace your tank before you have a septic disaster on the property.