Excessive draining of cooking oils and grease can cause the inlet drains to block. Oils and grease are difficult to degrade and can cause difficulties with the emptying.
Disposing of non-biodegradable items such as nappies and baby wipes will rapidly clog the septic tank and these items should not be discharged to the tank at any point.
Certain chemicals should not be discharged to septic tanks, including pesticides, herbicides, paint, solvents or high levels of bleach.
Septic tank failure signs
- Drain or sewage backup;
- Discharge of effluent to surface or watercourse;
- Effluent level above the septic tank inlet;
- Septic tank being emptied frequently;
- Depression area over the septic tank or soakaway.
