Septic tank servicing in Hampshire, Surrey and Berkshire.
Sometimes, your reminder for a yearly septic tank service may be when these signs present themselves:
- Gurgling noises in your pipes
- Slow draining toilet and drains
- A lot of water and grass growth around where your tank is located
Please fill in the form below and we will contact you about getting your septic tank serviced.
What is septic tank servicing?
Septic tank servicing is the maintenance and care to make sure your septic system functions efficiently and remains in good working order.
By booking a septic tank service, an expert will come out to check over your septic tank and pump the system. The goal of servicing your septic tank is to remove solids from the system to make sure it can operate efficiently.
Septic tanks need servicing because the build up of solids that need to be removed – pumped out! Once they’re pumped out, they’ll perform to their best ability once again.
Leave it too long to service your septic tank and you may face costly (and smelly) problems.
Why you should book in regular septic tank servicing
The benefits of regular septic tank servicing:
- Prevents costly repairs or replacements.
- Helps avoid system backups or overflows, which can damage property.
- Ensures that wastewater is properly treated and doesn’t contaminate the environment.
- Extends the life of your septic system.
What’s involved with septic tank servicing?
The typical steps to booking your tank empty/clean:
1. Assessment and Inspection
On the scheduled day, the technician will arrive at your property and begin by assessing the location of your septic tank to ensure it’s easily accessible and safe for the servicing process.
2. Locating the Tank
If the septic tank’s location is unknown or not clearly marked, the technician will use specialized tools to locate it. This may involve using a probe or metal detector to pinpoint the tank’s access points.
3. Accessing the Tank
Once the tank is located, the technician will open the access ports. Most septic tanks have two ports—an inlet and an outlet. They will remove the covers to access the tank’s interior for cleaning.
4. Pumping the Tank
Using a powerful vacuum truck or pump, the technician will remove the accumulated solids, sludge, and liquid waste from the septic tank to restore its proper function.
5. Cleaning and Inspection
After the tank has been emptied, the technician will clean its interior and thoroughly inspect it for any signs of damage, wear, or other issues that may need attention.
6. Closing and Securing the Tank
Once the tank has been pumped and inspected, the technician will securely replace the access port covers to ensure the tank is sealed and safe, preventing unauthorised access.
7. Providing Documentation
Many service providers will give you a receipt or service report that includes details such as the date of service, the amount of waste removed, and any observations or recommendations for future maintenance.
8. Recommendations
After completing the service, the technician may offer advice on future maintenance, including recommendations on when the next pumping should be scheduled based on your specific usage and local regulations.
9. Clean-Up
The technician will ensure the work area is left clean and free of any waste, debris, or spillage related to the pumping process.
10. Final Sign-Off and Satisfaction
Before leaving, the technician will typically ask if you’re satisfied with the service and address any questions or concerns you may have.
Book your licensed and experienced septic tank or cesspit expert today with ECS!
Septic tank pumping frequently asked questions
How often should you service your septic tank?
All septic tanks, treatment plants and cesspits must be emptied once a year or in line with the manufacturer’s recommendation for your system. This is the recommendation from the Environment Agency.
If your sewage system has more or less people using the system then this can also alter the frequency of the emptying intervals.
Make sure to put a reminder in your calendar. Or book us in for routine, yearly servicing – yes, this is something we can do for you!
What can happen if you don’t regularly pump your septic tank?
System Failure: Over time, solid waste and sludge accumulate in the septic tank. If the tank is not emptied regularly, these solids will build up to the point where they obstruct the drainage system. This can lead to system failure, resulting in costly repairs or replacement.
Reduces System’s Lifespan: A well-maintained system can last for decades. But without proper maintenance, the lifespan of your septic system will be much shorter, leading to a new tank needing to be installed.
Sewage Backups: Not doing regular septic tank or cesspit empties can lead to sewage backups in your home. These backups are not only unsanitary and unpleasant but also expensive to clean up and repair.
Harm the Environment: A poorly maintained tank can contaminate the environment with harmful bacteria and pollutants. Regular maintenance helps protect the environment and public health.
Odour: Septic tanks and cesspits can produce unpleasant odours both inside and outside your home. Emptying the tank helps control and eliminate these odours.
Pests: Accumulated solids and sludge in the tank can attract pests like rodents and insects. Pumping the tank helps prevent infestations and keeps your property free of unwanted visitors.
Decrease Property Value: A well-functioning septic system is a significant selling point. If you don’t maintain your tank, you may struggle to sell your property in the future.
Risk Fines and Legal Issues with Local Regulations: Many areas have regulations and guidelines in place that require septic tank pumping and cesspit emptying at regular intervals. Failing to comply with these regulations can lead to fines and legal issues.
Emptying your septic tank and cesspit is essential to maintain the proper function of your system, extend its lifespan, prevent costly repairs or fines, and protect the environment.
Avoid the risk of any or all of the above issues and contact our team today to book in your septic tank pumping.
How can I tell if my septic tank needs pumping?
The typical signs your septic tank needs pumping includes:
- Slow draining toilets and sinks
- Gurgling noises in your pipes
- A strong smell
- Water around the septic tank’s location
- Excessive grass near the drain field
- Sewage backing up into your home
With any of these signs it’s important to get a professional inspection. Contact a professional septic tank expert right away.
How long can a septic tank go without being pumped?
It’s not something worth testing to see how long you can go without pumping your septic tank. Stick to the yearly servicing as advised by the Environment Agency!
