How often do I need to get my septic system inspected?

If you have a septic system installed on your property, regular maintenance and servicing is an important part of its upkeep... and one that is easily forgotten. Ensuring that you have an inspection schedule for your septic system is crucial in so many ways, including for your health and the health and safety of those around you.

To help you out, we have put together a little info when it comes to home sewage treatment plants and septic tanks - for a comparison between the two systems, head to our comparison page - Compare septic tanks and HSTPs. Otherwise, keep reading to find out more or give us a call on 1300 722 517.

Home Sewage Treatment Plant

What is a Home Sewage Treatment Plant (HSTP)?

A home sewage treatment plant, otherwise known as an HSTP, is an arrangement which treats both greywater and blackwater in one area. Learn more about HSTPs here.

How does a HSTP work?

In principle, a HSTP is roughly based around a community sewage treatment system, however, is just on a smaller scale (suited to one house instead of a street or area). A HSTP allows natural bacteria to treat wastewater in an environmentally-friendly and secure way, without adding harmful chemicals to the process. The greywater and blackwater travel between various chambers, allowing the separation of solids, the addition of anaerobic bacteria - bacteria that don't rely on oxygen to survive - and the aeration of the leftover liquids. Once this is complete, the water is environmentally safe and can be used in without being dangerous to you or those around you e.g. watering your garden.

How often should I have my HSTP inspected?

Aerated systems generally require quarterly inspections, however, refer to manufacturer guidelines for more information and call an industry professional like Express Wastewater.

Septic Tanks

What is a septic tank?

Septic tanks are the most widely-known part of a septic system and are, essentially, buried watertight containers that can be made out of concrete, fibreglass or polyethylene plastic. Their main responsibility is to collect and store all the wastewater from the plumbing in your home before dispensing it through a drain field and, depending on the system, some septic tanks may treat either just blackwater (toilet discharge) or both grey and blackwater (all household wastewater). Learn more about septic tanks here.

How does a septic tank work?

When it comes to septic tanks, some of the matter that drains into a tank (ie. fats and grease) float to the top of the tank and forms a scum layer, whilst the rest of the broken-down solids (known as sludge) drop to the bottom. The water that has been treated then drains through an outlet and enters a trench or disposal area.

How often should I have my Septic Tank inspected?

If your septic tank has a sand filter, it should be inspected at least once a year. The Brisbane City Council recommends that septic tanks are pumped out every 3-5 years to ensure they continue to operate effectively, however, this may vary in accordance with your location and system type. Speak to both the manufacturer of your system and your local regulatory body to find out more.

How do you know if your septic system is in need of an inspection?

There are a few signs and symptoms that your septic system is in need of an inspection:

• Your septic tank is leaking.
• Your septic system is giving off an unpleasant smell.
• There are wet patches on your lawn.
• Your plumbing is slow to drain.
• If there is darker grass growing on or around the area surrounding the septic tank.

Why should you have your septic system regularly inspected?

Having your septic system inspected on a regular basis is very important in a variety of ways, including:

• Keeps your system in good working order, which ensures the safety of your and your family's health.
• Less chance of breakdowns.
• Any issues can be located before they become large problems.
• Your septic tank can last longer if regularly maintained and serviced.

Ultimately, implementing a regular schedule will help lower the risk of nasty and messy septic tank issues, which can be dangerous to the health of you and those around you. Additionally, if it is found your septic tank is in need of repairs or replacement, these can be carried out quickly and efficiently.

How do you keep your septic system healthy between inspections?

There are a few steps you can take to keep your septic system healthy between inspections:

• Do not place any non-organic materials down the drain or flush down the toilet, such as plastics.
• Do not put any chemicals down the drain or toilet, as these kill the bacteria that are needed for a septic system. This includes oil, paint, solvents, pesticides, household cleaning products and bleach.
• Change to natural cleaners where possible and use smaller amounts, particularly avoiding cleaners that contain high levels of phosphorous. Use traditional non-toxic cleaners like vinegar or bicarbonate of soda in the kitchen and bathroom.
• Use washing powders that are low in phosphorous.

Head to our Septic Tank Maintenance page to find out more about septic system maintenance. We service all across Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast, the Gold Coast, and Ipswich so give us a call at 1300 722 517 today.

‍ Resources :

Brisbane City Council (On-site sewage facilities): https://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/planning-and-building/do-i-need-approval/residential-projects/plumbing-and-drainage/on-site-sewage-facilities

City of Gold Coast (Care and maintenance of septic systems): https://www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/planning-and-building/care-maintenance-of-septic-systems-32193.html