Are You Having Problems With Your Septic Tank?
Septic Tank Problems
Septic tank problems can be the cause of much concern for property owners with some of the most common septic tank problems being associated with odour nuisance, structural issues and pollution in ditches and streams.
Its crucial that any septic tank problem is addressed and not ignored as this could result in the problem becoming even worse over time, and in some instances preventing the foul drainage pipework from being used or leaving the owner liable for prosecution in instances where the septic tank is causing pollution or a health risk.
Common Issues
The most common cause for a septic tank flooding is due to the receiving drainage field / soakaway and not actually the septic tank. If a drainage field fails and prevents the effluent from percolating through the sub-strata this will result in the septic tank and the foul drainage pipe work from the property surcharging. Septic tank drainage fields can fail for a number of reasons and these include:
Ground Conditions – The soakaway being constructed in ground conditions which are non-permeable such as sandy clay would result in the effluent that discharges to the soakaway filling the soakaway and subsequent flooding of the septic tank.
Natural Water Table – The drainage field / soakaway being under the natural water table can often be the cause for septic tank soakaway systems failing during winter months.
Root Ingress – Roots of trees and shrubs planted too close to a drainage field / soakaway can enter the drainage pipe work and block the pipes.
Increase in Flow – Additional waste water entering the septic tank. A septic tank and the receiving drainage field / soakaway are designed to cater for a certain volume of flow per day
Increase in Flow – Additional waste water entering the septic tank. A septic tank and the receiving drainage field / soakaway are designed to cater for a certain volume of flow per day
Sodium Binding – Excessive use of detergent based products i.e. dishwasher tablets, washing powders etc. will lead to eventual failure of the soakaway.
Age of the Soakaway – Older drainage fields / soakaways can fail due to a build-up of sludge solids.
What Can We Do For You?
A septic tank inspection is the best first port of call, to find out exactly what’s going on underground. Our team is fully equipped to investigate both the walls of the septic tank, as well as any soakaway pipework that the waste water runs to. They can get to the bottom of exactly what’s causing any problems and can let you know what needs to be done to put it right.
Unfortunately, there are a number of different ways that your septic tank or soakaway system can become damaged. If you are in need of septic tank repair, you might be surprised to know that often the costs of repairing or replacing damaged septic tanks are covered by your existing buildings insurance. Here at AVADA Environmental, we can manage everything for you from start to finish.
