Systems of septic tanks in Australia are necessary when there is a need to dispose of wastewater from various locations, such as homes and businesses. However, just like any other system, including the septic system, they will become efficient with time, which may lead to great inconveniences at a cost. It is not only important to ensure that a septic system is functioning properly because it can be disastrous if it becomes too late, but in fact, such early potential mischief must be detected—necessary precautions taken to prevent any damage. Failing to do so exposes one to three risks: losing their property, being subjected to annoyingly expensive repair costs, and having to deal with bans in Australia that result from such conditions.
A reason contributing to a failing system is the drain field needing to be functional, such as a soggy or water-laden drain field. That is why it is advisable to seek urgent help whenever such persistent signals are detected. The septic system rarely works in isolation, meaning its components, the toilets and drainage, will invariably fill some or more solid-liquid sewage, etc. Despite the more than satisfactory bathroom plumbing functioning, it is troubling to observe a gradual drop of water in the water closets.
Another common indicator is foul odours, both within and without the structure. If you detect smells without or around the plumbing fixtures, it is a warning that the system is not correctly treating waste materials. In the words of Subsurface Utility Engineering Association septic expert John Fitzgerald, “Unpleasant odours are often the first sign of trouble in your septic system, and immediate action may prevent you from costly repairs.”
Also, there is an unusual grass growth over the drain field or water accumulation over the said field. In that case, your system is leaking out ICM wastewater, which is dangerous to the environment. Given that over 30 percent of Australian households use septic systems, paying attention to these symptoms is important.
Neglecting septic system problems can have dire consequences, not only for the property but also for the environment. Groundwater pollution is the most common danger associated with failing septics. The most recent statistics show that over 60% of septic failures in rural settings result in pollution of the nearby water bodies with pathogens and nutrients.
They say that people who use malfunctioning systems will regularly pollute rivers and lakes and instigate algal blooms without proper waste treatment, threatening the local fauna. Speaking of the opinions associated with this issue, David Brown, an industrial services consultant, offers a stern warning: “It is not only money that is wasted for not paying attention to the first signs of septic failure, but more importantly, one damages the environment in the long run. This is very worrying, particularly considering Australia’s delicate ecosystems.”
For failed septic systems, property owners do not have immunity under normal circumstances and will be penalised if their failing septic system is found to contravene the environmental law of Australia. Councils and regulatory bodies perform checks of up-to-date septic systems from time to time to ensure the stipulated requirements are met, and in the event there are deviations, there are fines and costly obligatory repairs that follow. Henceforth, giving in early helps avoid causing damage to the environment and incurring extra expenses.
Do not be calm when you know your drain field or septic system has failed and is causing issues. First, do so simply by phoning and hiring a qualified septic system agent or industrial services provider for evaluation. Such services are useful in assessing underground problems through diagnostic tests like subsurface utility engineering techniques, since they can efficiently trace certain issues below the surface.
One of those would avoid commercial chemical drain cleaners or other means that may seem appropriate on the surface but are barely scratching the surface in solving the problem. Using septic systems may lead to minor issues that require a simple drain-clearing intervention, while sometimes, major poor drainage will call for replacing some parts of the sympathetic system. The figures show that completely replacing an existing septic system may cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to thousands at the cost of correction. Payers get lower when a septic problem is reported at an initial stage.
“Adequate routine maintenance is the key to keep septic systems from failing,” according to environmental specialist Emma Clark. “In Australia, many property owners do not schedule their systems for inspections, which can be periodic with a timeframe of 1-3 years depending on the usage of the system.”
Suppose taken care of, septic tanks and fields can avoid serious health, public health, environmental, and financial deficiencies. Landowners in Australia can prevent more serious issues from developing by being aware of key symptoms, knowing the dangers, and responding quickly. It is necessary to carry out regular maintenance and check-ups on a proper timetable, relying on the service providers in the industry. Don’t allow any minor issue to fester into something big—they will do that anyway—and maintain your system.
Contact us today on +61 2 6687 2880 or via our website to find out more about our septic tank cleaning services.
Liquid Waste Management services in Lismore, Ballina, Byron, Kyogle, and Richmond Valley council areas.