Effluent is the liquid wastewater that remains after solids have settled in the septic tank. This water is partially treated as it leaves the tank and enters the drain field. It’s important that the effluent is properly managed to avoid the leach drains blocking and not being able to release the water, which is why regular tank maintenance is crucial.

A diverter is where the effluent is diverted into either one of the leach drains. It is very important that this is monitored. The effluent is almost clear as it run through to the leach drains. The only effluent passing through is the same volume as what is happening in the house, if some one is having a shower that amount of water will be passing through, or if a toilet is flushed, the solids will be trapped in the septics tank and the water will pass through the diverter.

The paddle in the diverter must be changed every 6 months to give the leach drains a break. We suggest tax time and Xmas time. 

If the effluent passing through is muddy it means the sludge from the septic tanks is too high and the tanks need to be emptied immediately to avoid blocking up the leach drains. 

If there is water in the diverter it means your leach drains are not working, this is not good news as the system will soon start backing up.

The frequency of septic tank pumping depends on the size of the tank, the number of people using the system, and how much wastewater is generated. On average, a septic tank should be pumped every 3 to 5 years. Regular inspections can help determine the exact schedule for your system.

Here are some common signs that your septic tank needs attention:

• Slow drainage from sinks, showers, and toilets.
• Unpleasant odours around the tank or drain field.
• Patches of lush, green grass over the septic system area.
• Pooling water around the drain field. If you notice any of these signs, contact Waroona Septics to arrange an inspection or pumping service.

Our truck completes the required documentation in accordance with the Department of Environment Regulation before leaving your property. The waste is then transported to an authorised and registered disposal site.

While most household cleaners are safe for septic systems in moderation, avoid using large quantities of harsh chemicals like bleach, drain cleaners, or antibacterial products. These chemicals can kill the beneficial bacteria in your tank that help break down waste, leading to system issues.

To keep your septic tank running smoothly, avoid flushing:

• Wet wipes (even if they’re labelled “flushable”).
• Feminine hygiene products.
• Paper towels.
• Grease or oil.
• Chemicals or medications. These items can cause blockages or harm the system’s balance.

The drain field, also known as a leach field, is the area where the liquid wastewater from your septic tank is dispersed into the soil. The soil acts as a natural filter, removing harmful bacteria and contaminants before the water re-enters the groundwater supply. A failing drain field can lead to pooling water, bad smells, or system backups.

Proper septic system maintenance includes:

• Regular pumping and inspections.
• Water conservation to reduce the load on your system.
• Avoiding the disposal of non-degradable items down the drain.
• Keeping the area around the tank and drain field clear of trees and heavy vehicles to prevent damage.

If a septic tank isn’t regularly maintained, it can lead to costly problems such as:

• Blockages in the system, causing slow drainage or backups.
• Overflowing sewage, creating a health hazard and environmental damage.
• Expensive repairs or the need for system replacement. Regular maintenance is the best way to avoid these issues and ensure the longevity of your system.

Yes, septic systems can handle greywater (from sinks, showers, washing machines), but it’s important to remember that excess greywater can overload your system. Consider installing a separate greywater system to reduce the load on your septic tank and help conserve water.

To prevent septic tank odours, ensure your system is properly maintained with regular pumping and inspections. You can also:

• Avoid using harsh chemicals that disrupt the bacteria in the tank.
• Use septic-safe products for cleaning.
• Ensure your vent pipes are clear, allowing odours to escape above the house rather than around the tank. If odours persist, it may be a sign of a problem, and you should contact a professional for an inspection.

Yes, heavy rainfall can flood the drain field, preventing wastewater from being absorbed into the soil. This can lead to backups in your home and the surrounding area. To minimise the risk:

• Ensure proper drainage around the septic system.
• Avoid driving or parking on the drain field, which can compact the soil. If flooding occurs, reduce water usage in your home until the ground dries out.

Your septic tank is typically buried underground and may be difficult to locate without proper records. Here are some ways to find it:

• Look for inspection or access covers in your yard.
• Review property records or building plans that might show the location.
• Contact a septic professional who can help locate the tank using special equipment.  

If your septic tank is backing up, this could indicate a blockage or that the tank is full. Here’s what to do:

• Stop using water immediately to prevent further overflow.
• Avoid using drain cleaners, as these can worsen the problem.
• Contact a septic professional to inspect the system and pump the tank if necessary. Quick action can help prevent further damage or costly repairs.

Yes, tree roots can infiltrate and damage your septic tank or drain field. Roots naturally seek out moisture and can grow into pipes, causing blockages, leaks, or even complete system failure. To prevent this:

• Keep trees and shrubs away from your septic system.
•  Regularly inspect your system for any signs of root intrusion.
•  If roots are found, a septic professional may be able to clear them or suggest a solution.

Water conservation reduces the amount of wastewater entering your septic tank, giving it more time to treat the water and preventing overloads. Some tips to conserve water include:

• Installing low-flow toilets and taps.
• Fixing any leaks promptly.
• Spacing out activities that use a lot of water, like laundry or dishwashing, to avoid overwhelming the system.

While septic systems can last a long time with proper maintenance, they don’t last forever. The lifespan of a septic system can range from 20 to 40 years, depending on the materials used, the size of the system, and how well it has been maintained. Regular pumping, inspections, and avoiding unnecessary strain can help prolong the system’s life.

If your drain field fails, you may notice standing water, foul odours, or slow drainage in your home. A failed drain field can result from poor maintenance, overloading the system, or soil compaction. Here’s what to do:

• Stop using water to prevent further damage.
• Contact a septic professional immediately to assess the situation.
• In some cases, repairs may be possible, but a full replacement of the drain field might be necessary. Proper maintenance can help prevent drain field failure and extend its lifespan.

Before a licensed plumber can disconnect your septic system, your tanks must be pumped. Once emptied, you can choose to either decommission the tanks by having them perforated and filled with sand for safety, or remove them entirely. After the work is completed, we provide you with the necessary documentation to submit to the local council as proof.

Your tanks must be pumped before a licensed plumber can connect you to the deep sewerage system. You can either arrange both the pump-out and plumber’s work on the same day or ask a plumber to handle the entire process for you. Once emptied, you can either have the tanks perforated and filled with sand or remove them. We strongly recommend filling the tanks with sand as they will eventually corrode and pose a safety risk if left empty. After completion, we will provide the necessary paperwork to submit to the local council as proof of decommissioning, which is often a requirement when selling a property.