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Septic Tank Cleanout Services

Septic tank cleanouts are conducted to ensure the ongoing working of the system is maintained. If the tank is not cleaned out on a regular basis then a layer of sludge will settle on the bottom of the tank and decompose and eventually cause failure. 

Septic Tank Cleanout

How often should a septic tank be cleaned out?

Systems if carefully operated, can last 10 years before a cleanout is required. This of course depends on the care each system receives. We recommend arranging a cleanout roughly every 5 years. 

How do I arrange a septic tank cleanout?

Depending on the capacity and type of tank on your property, we offer the following cleanout services. Select one of the below options based on type and capacity:

Our online Cleanout Requests are a pre-paid service using credit card and will be conducted within 3 working days of us receiving your request. 

Emergency Cleanouts

An Emergency Cleanout will be actioned within 24 hours of notification. The emergency cleanout will incur an additional fee payable alongside the standard cleanout fee.

Submit our online Cleanout Request applicable to your system, and call us immediately so that we can escalate your request as a high priority. 

Follow the link to review the Effluent Removal - Fees & Charges

Maintaining a Septic Tank

Systems if carefully operated, can last 10 years before a cleanout is required. This of course depends on the care each system receives. The following is a guide on how to achieve the most from a system.

Points to consider:

  • Every property that has an effluent pump out system (contained tanks) should be on a scheduled service frequency to maintain the approval to operate the system.
  • Septic cleanouts (seep away systems and the collection tank of an effluent system) should be conducted at least every 10 years depending on the degree of use and care of the system discharges. Trenches to septic tank seep away systems should ideally be located away from trees and have cleared exposure to direct sun. Grass should be cut regularly to promote drying. 
  • Septic tanks are meant to be full. Some odours may be present and this is not unusual. 
  • During excessive rain periods, rainwater may infiltrate the tanks or trenches on the property causing the system to fail. Keeping the tank lid clear of grass, plants and weeds is a good way of caring for your tank, if cracks appear in the lid and noticed it is important to get them fixed.

Trouble Shooting & Warning Signs

Look out for a few warning signs that signal that there are troubles with the septic tank. Ensure that these problems are attended to immediately to protect the health of residents and the environment.

Look out for the following:

  • Water that drains too slowly 
  • Drainpipes that gurgle and make noises when air bubbles are forced back through the system 
  • Strong and persistent sewerage smells indicate a likely problem 
  • Water is backing up into the sink which may indicate that the septic system is already failing