With so many beautiful parts of the British countryside to relocate to, more and more people are swapping busy city living for the fresh air of rural life. However, rural properties face a number of unique challenges due to their remote location. One common issue is that they cannot be connected to the main plumbing network. If this is the case, then you must find an alternative way to manage your domestic waste.
What is a septic tank?
A septic tank is an underground wastewater management system that is used to collect and seperate solids and liquids in domestic wastewater such as food, greases and sewage. Once the wastewater enters the settlement chamber, solids sink to the bottom and form a sludge, while other materials float to the top and form a scum layer. Once these are separated, they can easily be removed from the liquid. The remaining liquid is then passed through a drainage system which allows the liquid to be absorbed by the ground and then receive further treatment from the bacteria found in soil, before it re-enters local drainage fields.
Why do you need a septic tank on your property?
If your property is not connected to the main waste system, then you will need to have your own system for treating wastewater. One of the easiest ways to do this is by installing a septic tank on your property. You cannot have a property where there is no system to dispose of solids; for health and safety reasons. Buying a septic tank in the UK means that you can dispose of solid waste safely and efficiently. Under the binding rules set by the Environment Agency you must have a wastewater system in place to break down any solids, and then treat the remaining effluent so that it can be safely deposited into local drainage fields.
How to make a self-sufficient home
If you live in a rural property that is not connected to the public waste system, then you will have to consider how to make your home self-sufficient. Installing a septic tank on your property is a cost-effective way to collect and treat your domestic wastewater. Tanks can be made from steel, plastic or concrete and come in all shapes and sizes. You can contact a specialist septic tank provider to get advice about the best septic tank for your requirements.
Other things to consider
Here are a few other important things to consider if you have a septic tank, or are considering installing one on your property:
Carry out regular maintenance
Proper maintenance of your septic tank is vital to keeping your system working at optimum levels, and to protect your living environment and water quality. You should inspect your tank regularly and look for any warning signs including - gurgling sounds coming from the plumbing systems, a delay in draining, and any surface sewage in the drainfield area. It is best to contact wastewater management professionals immediately if you notice any of these warning signs. You risk having to replace the whole septic tank if repairs are not carried out on your systems straight away. The solids collected in your septic tank will also need to be emptied regularly (usually annually) by a licensed contractor. Failing to empty your septic tank can lead to leaks and spillages which could cause serious harm to the surrounding environment.
Check whether you need a permit
The effluent that emerges from a wastewater treatment system often requires a discharge consent from the Environment Agency. Not every property needs this, but make sure you check whether this is a requirement in your area and contact the Environment Agency to see whether you need a permit.
Do not flush items down the toilet
You should never flush items like makeup wipes, dental floss and sanitary pads down the toilet as these can block your septic tank systems, leading to damage and costly repairs. You should also avoid putting harsh chemicals down your drains, as these can affect how well your system works by killing ‘good’ bacteria that breaks down harmful items found in wastewater.
Never enter your septic tank
You should never enter a septic tank. The gases and bacteria produced by the treatment process are extremely poisonous and could cause serious injury and even death. If you identify a problem, you should always get assistance from a septic tank professional , rather than trying to do it on your own.
