Essential Guide to Sewage Tank Maintenance: Tips for Long-Term Efficiency

Whether a small septic tank or a larger treatment system, sewage tanks are designed to store, treat and dispose of wastewater safely. As the pressure on modern infrastructure increases, making sure that sewage tanks operate efficiently is important in maintaining hygiene, preventing contamination and protecting the environment. In this edition of the Tanks R Us blog we’ll explore the importance of sewage tank maintenance, including how to identify signs of trouble and when to call in the professionals for help.

Why is Sewage Tank Maintenance Important?

Sewage tanks are responsible for handling the waste we generate on a daily basis. They process and treat wastewater before it’s safely discharged. Without maintenance the system can become blocked, leading to back-ups or even contamination of local water sources. Taking care of sewage tanks ensures that systems run well and wastewater is processed in a safe and environmentally friendly way. There are several reasons why sewage tank maintenance is so vital.

• System failures: Sewage tanks are complex systems made up of multiple components working together to process wastewater. Over time, solids can build up leading to clogs or blockages. Without regular cleaning and maintenance, these blockages can cause serious issues (eg. tank overflows or pump failure). A well-maintained sewage tank reduces the risk of system failures and the need for expensive repairs.
• Environment: Sewage systems that don’t work properly might release untreated wastewater into the environment, which could contaminate the water supply and cause harm to wildlife. Sewage tank maintenance means your system can properly filter and process wastewater, stopping pollutants from damaging the environment. By maintaining your sewage tank, you play a key role in protecting the local ecosystem and contributing to environmental sustainability.
• Lifespan: Proper maintenance of a sewage tank helps to extend the lifespan of the tank itself plus its components, giving it the best chance of operating efficiently for years to come. With regular inspection and cleaning, potential issues can be found before they become serious.

Signs Your Tank Needs Maintenance

It’s a good idea to have a scheduled maintenance plan, with some tasks performed on a regular basis. However, there are sometimes also signs that may indicate your tank requires immediate attention. Identifying these warning signs early can prevent major issues from developing – potentially saving you time and money.

• Odour: One of the most obvious signs that your sewage tank needs maintenance is a foul odour around your property. A septic or sewage tank should not produce strong smells. If you notice unpleasant odours, it could be a sign that there’s a clog, a full tank or a problem with drainage. Professional inspection is required so that you can work out the cause of the smell and prevent any further complications.
• Slow draining: If you notice that water is draining slowly or there are gurgling sounds coming from your drains, it can indicate that your tank is clogged or approaching capacity. Solids might have built up and be obstructing the flow of wastewater, which can lead to things backing up, and further complications.
• Backups: Sewage backups are a serious sign that your tank needs attention. When the system becomes overloaded or clogged, wastewater can back up into your home or business, which means messy and unpleasant conditions. Sewage backups can be caused by improper tank maintenance or a failing septic system. If you notice backups, contact a professional immediately.
• Vegetation: If you notice unusually lush vegetation or a green patch of grass around the area where your sewage tank is located, it could indicate leakage. Wastewater that has escaped can fertilise soil, causing plants around the tank to grow more vigorously. If this happens it’s important to have the tank inspected to prevent further contamination and damage to the surrounding area.
• Water levels: If the water level in the tank is unusually high, it could be a sign that it’s full or there’s a problem with drainage. High water levels can cause a tank to overflow, leading to unpleasant odours, environmental contamination and system failure. Regular monitoring of water levels and emptying of the tank in timely fashion are essential for proper sewage tank maintenance.

Professional Sewage Tank Maintenance

While many homeowners and business owners can carry out basic maintenance tasks, such as checking water levels or checking their tank’s condition, professional sewage tank maintenance is essential for long-term efficiency.  

A professional sewage tank maintenance service typically involves:

• Tank inspection: A thorough inspection of the tank and its components to check for signs of damage, wear or clogs and blockages.
• Cleaning: Regular cleaning to remove solids and sludge that accumulate. This helps keep the tank working and reduces the risk of blockages.
• Pumping: Regular pumping to remove accumulated waste. Depending on the tank size and the wastewater volume, this may be necessary every 3 to 5 years.
• Tests: The drainage and filter system will be tested to ensure that wastewater is flowing properly and that the system is functioning as expected.

Regular sewage tank maintenance not only prevents costly repairs but also protects your property, the local ecosystem and public health. Check out the sewage tanks and systems available from Tanks R Us.