Buying a rural property is a dream for many Australians. The lure of a quiet and peaceful life in the country, away from the hustle and bustle of city life, is an attractive option. Along with the new lifestyle of rural life, there also comes the responsibility of new features to the home, and a septic system is a common one. If you've never had a septic tank for your waste disposal before, it can feel a little bit daunting to begin with. Here are two key things you should know about owning and maintaining a septic system.
1. They need regular servicing
Like any major appliance or plumbing system, septic tanks will need regular servicing to ensure that they work properly. The service will include checking that it is operating correctly, checking the different components for wear or damage and making sure that the system is operating and treating your waste in a safe, hygienic and lawful manner.
The interval between services will depend on the model and style of your septic system. Most will only require a yearly maintenance schedule, but some types may require two or more a year. It's important to stick to the service schedule set out by the manufacturer of your septic system. This will prolong its operational life and help you deal with minor issues before they become major and costly issues.
2. You'll need to be careful with what you flush
Unlike regular municipal sewage disposal, septic systems are negatively impacted by flushing the wrong items down the toilet or drains. As a rule, don't put anything into the toilet apart from toilet paper. This includes baby wipes, feminine hygiene products or cotton buds. Make sure that you inform guests of these rules, too, or you may find that your septic system becomes clogged up with foreign objects.
Some septic systems are also sensitive to the type of cleaning products that are flushed into them. This includes toilet and shower cleaning products as well as personal hygiene products such as shampoo. If you're not sure, check with the manufacturer or your septic system service professional to find out if there are any products you need to avoid.
With the correct care and maintenance, a septic system should provide you with effective and safe waste treatment on your new rural property. Contact your local septic system contractor to book your first service appointment, organise a regular maintenance schedule and find out which items and products you should avoid adding to the system.
