Septic tank waste management

Septic tanks allow a safe disposal of wastewater and hence are widely popular in areas that have a poor drainage system or are off the mains sewage network. The accumulated waste comprises a top layer of oils and grease, which floats above all the waste (scum); a middle layer of wastewater along with waste particles; and finally a bottom layer (sludge).

Inside the tank bacteria from the wastewater breaks down the solid waste. These bacteria decompose the solid waste rapidly allowing the liquids to separate and drain away more easily.

If a septic tank is not cleaned regularly (within one year for smaller tanks), toxins and antibacterial substances build up killing the vital bacteria that break down the waste, causing solid waste blocks which overflows into the watercourse or out of the access grating.