Go with flow: the importance of septic tank upkeep
Like anything in life, the more something is maintained, the longer it should last. The same goes for septic tanks and cesspits, both of which require regular maintenance, cleaning and upkeep. If you don’t, you might end up with bad smells, dirty water backup and expensive repairs. Septic tank upkeep is important to ensure you get the most out of your system, and it lasts as long as possible.
What’s the difference between septic tanks and cesspits?
Whilst both perform a similar function, septic tanks and cesspits require different methods of upkeep. But what’s the difference? Although they are both underground containers used to collect wastewater from residential or commercial properties that are not connected to a public sewer system, they work in different ways.
Septic Tank: A septic tank is a watertight chamber, and the ones we install are all made of concrete. We believe these last longer for our clients. A septic tank receives wastewater from sinks, toilets, showers, and laundry facilities. Inside the tank, solids settle to the bottom, forming sludge, while liquids flow out into a drainage field elsewhere, and over time returns into the groundwater.
Cesspit: A cesspit is a simple underground tank that collects and stores sewage without any treatment. It requires regular emptying by vacuum tanker trucks to prevent overflow and environmental contamination. It’s important to note that cesspits are illegal in Scotland due to environmental concerns, but can still be used by our customers in the north of England.
The Importance of maintaining your wastewater system
By keeping a regular maintenance schedule, you can help ensure that your septic tank or cesspit are in good shape. That’s because routine inspections help prevent issues like clogs, backups, and system failures from developing. We do this for you by utilising a specialist camera which can see right inside your tank and identify any potential issues. Regular maintenance also extends the lifespan of your septic tank or cesspit, saving you money on costly repairs or replacements down the line. A well maintained septic tank could last decades if cared for properly.
Properly maintained septic tanks and cesspits reduce the risk of groundwater contamination and pollution of nearby water sources. This is crucial for protecting the environment and public health, as well as you own health. A broken septic tank may need replaced, which can be costly. So by committing to regular maintenance you can avoid this unexpected outgoing.
A well-maintained septic system is a key aspect for buyers if you are looking to sell your home. A neglected, smelly or malfunctioning septic tank may not only reduce your home’s value, it may put buyers off completely.
Professional upkeep from Septic Tank Services
If you are looking for a professional company to maintain your septic tank or cesspit in Scotland or the north of England, then Septic Tank Services can help. We can clean and thoroughly remove accumulated solids and sludge from your tank to keep it running smoothly. Regular camera inspections can prevent small problems from escalating, and we can identify and solve any potential problems quickly.
Keep it clean!
Wherever you live in Scotland or the north of England, get in touch with us to find out more about cesspit and septic tank upkeep. If you have any queries about maintenance or assessment, then feel free to ask!