A septic tank is crucial in managing wastewater outflow for properties not connected to the central municipal sewerage system. It is an underground sedimentation container that collects and treats wastewater from the house through biological decomposition and drainage. It includes everything that goes down the drain, such as toilets, sinks, laundry, and showers.

How do septic tanks work? 

A septic tank features inlet and outlet pipes. The inlet pipe transports wastewater from the house to the tank, where solid and liquid waste can be separated. The outlet pipe, also known as the drain field, distributes the pre-processed wastewater from the septic tank and spreads it evenly in the soil and watercourses. After a while, when wastewater has been collected, it will begin to separate into three layers.

The topmost layer is comprised of oils and grease. It floats above all the waste and is commonly referred to as "scum". The middle layer contains wastewater mixed with waste particles. Finally, the third and bottom layers consist of particles heavier than water, which form a sludge layer.

Bacteria residing inside a septic tank perform the critical function of decomposing solid waste, enabling liquids to separate and drain out smoothly. However, the solid waste that settles at the bottom of the tank must be removed as part of regular maintenance. 

The environmentally friendly biological septic tanks recycle the wastewater, making them perfect for every holiday and residential home not connected to sewage mains. Biological products can be purchased to keep your septic tank clean. 

How can we help? 

Our company, Wet Hire, provides a local, affordable and friendly service for emptying septic tanks and cesspits. Many homeowners across the nation trust us to keep their sewage systems in perfect working order. Regularly emptying your septic tank or cesspit is crucial to avoid the risk of overflow, blockage and costly damage to your sewage system and the environment. We understand the importance of this and strive to go above and beyond to help you maintain your system.

How often should you empty a septic tank? 

It's common for our customers to ask how often they should empty their septic tank. Keeping your septic tank in good working order involves knowing the appropriate frequency for emptying it. Doing so ensures the tank functions effectively and efficiently without encountering issues like overflow, clogging, foul odours, or damage. Regular emptying of your septic tank is essential to ensure optimal performance and to prevent costly repairs or replacements.

The frequency of emptying your septic tank depends on various factors, such as the tank's size, the number of people in your household, and how much water you use daily. Our recommendation is to have your tank emptied every six to twelve months. In general, larger households tend to use more water than smaller households. Therefore, the tank may require emptying sooner.

When should you empty a septic tank? 

We recommend emptying the septic tank before it reaches its maximum capacity to keep it in good working order and prevent unpleasant outcomes from blocking and overflowing. Below is a guide to signs indicating that you need your septic tank pumped.

The signs you should empty a septic tank. 

• Pooling water - If you see pools of water near the septic tank entrance, it may indicate overflowing. 
• Slow drains - If the water in your sinks and shower drains slowly or your toilet is not flushing adequately. The plumbing may also make gurgling noises. 
• Odours - A full tank can emit unpleasant odours.
• Sewer backup - There are signs of water and sewage backup or overflows near the septic tank. 
• Lush green lawn -We all love having a lush green lawn. However, if the grass around the septic tank is greener than the rest of the lawn, it might indicate that you need to check your septic tank.

Maintenance of a septic tank

Many homeowners don't realise the impact of their water usage and the improper disposal of materials, grease, and oils down their sinks, toilets, and laundry. However, if you have a septic tank, it's crucial to consider these factors to prevent blockages and save money. Taking preventative measures can help you avoid potential problems down the line.

By scheduling regular pumping and inspections, you can prolong the lifespan of your septic system and keep it running smoothly for years to come. Neglecting to remove waste from your septic tank could damage your land and disturb your neighbours.

What happens when my septic tank is emptied? 

Once you have booked your septic tank pumping service, we will visit your property with a specialised waste removal vehicle. This vehicle has a large, pressurised vacuum attached to a long hose.

Upon arrival, our engineer will access your septic tank and submerge the hose into the tank's holding area. The vacuum will then suck the sewage from your septic tank into the waste tank of the vehicle.

Once your septic tank is emptied or our waste removal vehicle is full, we will take your sewage to an approved local storage and treatment facility for disposal. This waste may be repurposed into renewable fertiliser or used to produce energy.

How much is it to empty a septic tank? 

The cost of septic tank waste removal depends on various factors.

• Septic tank size
• Property size
• Amount of wastewater required to withdraw. 
• Amount of solid waste needed to withdraw.
• Repairs to blockages or damages. 

Book your septic tank pumping service today!

It is important to note that only businesses with an appropriate waste disposal license are authorised to perform septic tank pumping. Before you hire a waste removal service, make sure to check that they are appropriately licensed. WET Hire is registered as an Upper Tier service, which means we are authorised to transport waste produced by other homes and businesses.

We proudly offer friendly, local, and affordable septic tank emptying services to homes and businesses across Bath and Somerset. We have over 10 years of experience and are licensed to remove waste to regulation standards. So, if you need your septic tank pumped, please contact us today to arrange a service.