Guide to Cesspits & Septic Tanks

If you have a septic tank or cesspit, it is important to understand how they work and take the necessary steps to maintain them. By following the tips in our Guide to Cesspits and Septic Tanks, you can ensure that your system continues to function properly without any unnecessary fuss or expense.

Applicable to anyone who doesn’t have access to mains drainage, read our comprehensive guide to cesspits and septic tanks, or contact our professional and experienced engineers who can visit your household or commercial site and advise on the best course of action.

What is a Septic Tank?

When a household is unable to connect to the mains sewerage system, a septic tank or cesspit can be used to dispose of wastewater.

These systems work by collecting the wastewater from your home and storing it in an underground tank. The waste is then broken down by bacteria and other microorganisms that naturally occur in the tank. As the wastewater breaks down, the solid waste settles to the bottom of the tank and forms a layer of sludge. Meanwhile, the liquid waste rises to the top and forms a layer of scum. The partially treated wastewater then flows out of the tank and into a drainage field, where it is further treated by the soil before being released into the environment.

Cesspits and septic tanks are a form of underground sedimentation tank for properties not connected to the main sewer. Although there are similarities between the two, they are used for different purposes. For commercial sites or businesses, sewage treatment plants are more commonly utilised.

What is a Cesspit?

A cesspit is an on-site sanitation system that collects and temporarily stores wastewater and sewage. Unlike septic tanks, cesspits merely hold the wastewater and sewage; they don’t treat it in any way. Furthermore, cesspits are typically used when the ground is unsuitable for the waste to be treated, such as areas near watercourses.

Septic Tank Vs Cesspit: What is the Difference Between a Septic Tank and a Cesspit?

What is the difference between these systems and how does a cesspit work compared to a septic tank? Before we delve into the differences between the two sanitation systems, it’s important first to highlight their similarities.

Firstly, septic tanks and cesspits are used as an environmentally friendly way to gather wastewater and sewage from your property. Second, both cesspits and septic tanks comprise of sealed underground components.

However, where cesspits and septic tanks differ are in their primary functions.

• Cesspits only consist of a single chamber with no outlet. As a result, there’s no processing or treatment of wastewater or sewage.
• Furthermore, cesspits don’t have a drainage field attached to them, so they fill up much quicker than septic tanks, and as a result, need to be emptied more frequently as solids and liquids build up within the tank.

How Do Septic Tanks Work?

Septic tanks comprise of two chambers that are divided by a split wall. Any wastewater leaving the property will enter the first chamber of the septic tank. The central role of a septic tank is to separate any solids from the liquid - the septic tank is a collection point for the sewerage which allows sludge to settle, leaving the liquid effluent on top.

When wastewater and sewage enter the septic tank, they will initially be held in the first chamber until the solids separate from the liquids. Fats, oils and grease float to the chamber’s top and form a thin crust called “scum”. Food waste and excrement float to the bottom of the tank and form a layer of sludge. Once the wastewater has been treated, the separated liquid will filter through to the second chamber within the septic tank. Any solid waste is prevented from entering this chamber by the split wall.

The wastewater is then safely discharged into septic tank drainage field pipework. Once in the drainage field, the effluent is distributed evenly through the perforated pipes and percolates through any surrounding soil. The drainage field is constructed to comply with building and other regulations so that the waste water is treated by aerobic bacteria which thrive in these conditions. Aerobic bacteria perform the major treatment of waste water before it disperses into the sub-soil.

 

 

Septic Tank Soak-Away Compliance

As of January 2020, surface water is no longer be permitted to freely flow into a soakaway or drainage field that comes from a septic tank. A septic tank must have its own drainage constructed of pipework to send the effluent from a septic tank to ground.

A drainage field is necessary to cover a larger surface area in conjunction with a septic tank, so that surface water soakaways with many pipes connecting the main line allow the effluent more space to go to ground correctly.  All effluent liquid must go to ground using a correctly designed and constructed drainage field or mini treatment plant. A drainage field is necessary to cover a larger surface area in conjunction with a septic tank, so that surface water soakaways with many pipes connecting the main line allow the effluent more space to go to ground correctly.

Any and all discharges that do not go to one of these systems will need to be updated as per the new regulations. These include:

• Soak-aways used for rainwater
• Soak-away pit
• Soak-away crate system
• soakaway tunnel system
• Ezy Drain
• Ditches
• Dykes
• Streams, canals, rivers etc.
• Surface water drains

If your septic tank still discharges into any of these, you will need to replace or update your existing treatment system to one that adheres to the new 2020 regulations. Under the new regulations, if a septic tank discharges to anywhere other than a fully functioning established drainage field, this must be rectified. This includes if your septic discharges to a soakaway which also deals with rainwater. This is no longer allowed due to pollution. Your septic tank must have its own drainage field to enable the effluent to go to the ground correctly and not interact with any surface water.

All septic tanks and drainage fields should adhere to the British Standard that was in force at the time of installation New British standards have been released:

Septic tanks:  BS EN 12566-1

Drainage field: BS 6297:2007

This means that a septic tank cannot be installed if the tank and drainage field do not hold this certification.

Who is Responsible for a Septic Tank?

If you own, use, or are thinking of getting a septic tank installed, the quality of the discharge and its impact on the environment is your responsibility. You may be held accountable for any pollution caused by your septic tank. You are also responsible for ensuring that:

• Your septic tank is properly maintained
• The septic tank access lids are secure and in good working order
• There are no blockages in any part of the system including the drains leading to and from the septic tank and the soakaway.
• That the system meets the General Binding Rules set out by the Environmental agency.

If your septic tank isn’t maintained properly it can fail, which could then cause the system to back up and flood your property with raw sewage. To make matters worse, this situation can end up affecting the local environment causing a hazard to rivers, streams and waterways.

Depending on what type of tank you have your required maintenance will vary. However, in general, a household septic tank should be emptied once every 12 months. When on site one of our engineers will be able to check what type of tank you have and what the manufacturers maintenance guidelines are for your individual tank.

 

Septic Tank Maintenance & Cesspit Cleaning

How do you maintain a Septic Tank?

If you have a septic tank or cesspit, it is important to be aware that you will not be charged sewerage fees by a water or sewerage company. However, you will need to obtain a permit and ensure that your system is properly maintained. This includes having your tank emptied regularly to prevent an overflow, which can cause environmental damage and result in costly repairs.

Septic tanks will inevitably fill up and therefore will require emptying. Depending on the size of the tank and the size of the property in which it services, they usually only need emptying on an annual basis, a service which here at Metro Rod we offer as either a one-off attendance or on a pre-planned schedule. Our engineers will attend with a tanker to empty the tank and dispose of the waste, and high-pressure water jetting will usually follow to ensure the tank is ready to be used again.

If it is suspected that there may be an issue with the tank, an assessment can be carried out to check for cracks and other faults that may weaken the tank and allow materials to seep out. Our engineers can attend with a CCTV camera to inspect the inside of the tank and check to make sure it is structurally sound and working to its maximum efficiency.

What is Septic Tank Desludging?

Septic tank desludging is the process of removing the layers of scum and sludge from the tank. A vacuum tanker is used to remove both layers out of the tank effectively. Any waste removed from the septic tank will be taken to a licensed waste facility for safe disposal and treatment.

Removing both layers of scum and sludge from your septic tank can help ensure it remains in good working order, prolong its life expectancy, and prevent serious complications from occurring.

If both layers of scum and sludge are allowed to accumulate within the septic tank, several issues may arise, including:

• The total volume of wastewater the septic tank can hold will decrease. This can potentially cause a residual build-up of waste leading to sewage overflowing and blockages.
• The quality of the final effluent discharged into the drainage field will be significantly reduced. Drainage fields will deteriorate and fail over time. However, poor quality effluent will speed up this process, causing unnecessary expenses to unblock or replace the drainage field.

When Should You Desludge Your Septic Tank?

The best way to determine when your septic tank needs desludging is to measure the layers of scum and sludge accumulated within the tank. To do this, a drainage engineer will use a measuring tool called a “sludge judge”, a long plastic tube with a check valve at the bottom.

The engineer will take the measuring tool and slowly lower it to the bottom of the septic tank. As the sludge judge is gradually withdrawn from the wastewater, the check valve at the base of the measuring tool closes. The engineer can then accurately record the thickness of the scum and sludge layers within the captured sample. Your septic tank will cope with relatively high levels of sludge.

However, the most definitive advice on maintenance cleaning of septic tanks comes on the GOV.UK website. It’s stated that you should have your tank cleaned at least once a year by a licensed waste carrier such as Metro Rod.

For routine septic tank desludging, emptying, and installation services, get in touch with your local depot today.

How Often Do Septic Tanks Need Emptying?

Septic tanks and cesspits need to be cleaned and maintained regularly to prevent unwanted issues, like blockages or sewage build-up, from occurring. However, determining how often your cesspit or septic tank needs emptying depends on two key factors, the properties size and the frequency in which they are used. As a general rule though, it’s advised that your tanks are emptied every 6-12 months to remove residual build-up and ensure they remain in optimal condition.

When to Replace Your Septic Tank

Signs of wear and tear will often creep in due to excess use, requiring a septic tank repair. But when will you need a septic tank replacement?

Typical Signs Your Septic Tank Needs Attention

Septic tanks can be susceptible to damage and wastewater backing up if they aren't emptied or maintained regularly. There are several signs that indicate your septic tank needs attention:

• Gurgling sounds in your pipes
• Water draining slower than normal
• Foul smells coming from your drainage system
• Excess water pooling in the ground near your septic tank
• Issues flushing your toilet

If you experience any of the following problems, it's highly recommended to contact a septic tank specialist who will identify the source of the issue and resolve it before it becomes a more severe issue later on.

Preventing Problems With Your Septic Tank

Failing to maintain and empty your septic tank regularly may result in a residual build-up of waste or sewage, leading to sewage overflowing or blockages. Not only can this damage your septic tank, resulting in costly and time-consuming repairs, but it runs the risk of contaminating the ground in the surrounding area. To avoid these issues, we’d recommend your septic tank is emptied at least once a year. Any waste or sewage removed from a septic tank must be taken to a licensed waste facility and disposed of correctly to minimise the impact on the environment.

Routine septic tank maintenance is another option to prevent unexpected problems. During a standard maintenance service, the septic tank is not only emptied and cleaned but checked rigorously to ensure it is in good working order and compliant with current regulations.

When Should You Get a Septic Tank Replacement?

A septic tanks life expectancy can vary due to several factors, including the material it's made of and the environment it's situated in. Generally speaking, a septic tank can last anywhere between 15 to 40 years as long as they are maintained correctly. If the septic tank has been neglected, damages such as leaks, cracks or blockages, will materialise and in the event of the problem being too severe for repair, a septic tank replacement will be needed.

The other cause of a septic tank replacement is to ensure you comply with regulations. In the UK, these are called the General Binding Rules. The General Binding Rules regulate small sewage discharges and apply to operators of septic tanks or small sewage treatment plants.

Older septic tanks often discharge into watercourses like rivers, streams, brooks either directly or indirectly. The General Binding Rules protect watercourses from pollution such as the untreated wastewater discharged from septic tanks.

As of January 1st 2020, it is now mandatory for all septic tanks to discharge into a compliant drainage field or sewage treatment plant. Sewage treatment plants effectively break down solid waste to remove contaminants, producing a cleaner, more environmentally friendly effluent which can then enter the watercourse. If your septic tank discharges into a watercourse, it must be replaced as soon as possible.

Contact a Septic Tank Replacement Specialist

Regular septic tank emptying and cleaning will ensure your tank remains in tip-top condition and prevent unwanted blockages and sewage build-up. At Metro Rod, we have more than 35 years of experience in septic tank emptying and installations. All our engineers are fully trained to provide you with expert septic tank services that are quick, hassle-free and cause minimal disruption.

For routine septic tank emptying, maintenance and installation services, get in touch with your local depot today or call us on 0800 66 88 00.

Septic Tank Regulations 2020 FAQs

Are you aware of the latest 2020 Septic Tank Regulations and is your Septic Tank compliant with the new legislation? Here are some Septic Tank Regulation FAQs.

Is your Septic Tank Compliant?

For many years now, the Environment Agency, businesses, and individuals have been making a huge effort to reduce the amount of water pollution. The General Binding Rules have been put in place to protect surface water resources (e.g. rivers, streams etc.) from pollution caused by septic tanks and other small-scale sewage treatment plants.

One big cause of water pollution is caused by incorrectly installed/maintained septic tanks - it’s therefore crucially important as a landowner/property owner that your drainage system abides by the latest 2020 Septic Tank Regulations.

What are Septic Tank Regulations?

New Septic Tank Regulations 2020 have been implemented to help fix the problem of water pollution. Subsequently, if your discharge causes pollution, then the Environment Agency may take enforcement action against you so it’s important that your Septic Tank is installed and maintained correctly.

The Laws for Septic Tanks 2020

If you have a septic tank that discharges directly into a watercourse such as a river, stream, canals, ditches, surface water drains or any other type of watercourse you’re your septic tank must meet the new standards:

 

Use the correct treatment system

If you’re unsure what treatment system you require, call the specialists on 01302 772464.

• The treatment system must meet the right British Standard
• Replacing – must use a sewage treatment plant with a full BS EN 12566-3 Certification
• Redirected – discharge to a watercourse must be stopped and diverted to a drain field that is constructed to the British Standard BS6297 2007
• Be CE marked
• Documentation proving your tank has a British Standard Certificate of compliance.
• Be on the British Water list of approved equipment for BS EN 12566-1

 

All treatment systems must have the correct capacity

If you install a new septic tank, make sure it meets your sizing requirements. When the approved contractor installs your system, it must be installed in line with the manufacturers' specifications.

 

Empty and maintain your Septic Tank

All sludge should be removed from your septic tank at least once a year or at the intervals recommended by the manufacturer. Our tanker driver holds a company waste carrier certificate so we’re able to remove waste whilst adhering to the new Septic Tank Regulations.

 

Repair/Replace if it’s not in working order

Faults to look out for include leaks, cracks in wall or pipes, blocked pipes, sewage smells, a failed motor/pump/electrical supply. If you are planning on stopping using your system, make sure it’s properly decommissioned and remove any waste which could cause pollution.

 

Selling your Property

If you sell a property with a Septic Tank installed, you must ensure all documentation and details of the septic tank are transferred to the new owners.

How do I know if I need to do something?

Check your septic tank paperwork as this should give insight as to when your septic tank was put in, how large it is and where the effluent discharges to.  If it does not discharge into a drainage field, then you are in breach of the new regulations and this will need to be remedied.

If you cannot locate paperwork or confirm compliance, Metro Rod can arry out a CCTV from the septic tank to work out where the pipework is without the need for an excavation utilising specialist equipment. If we are unable to locate the pipework with this equipment or you suspect that the configuration is faulty than that we would need to dig the area up to discover where it flows to and ascertain validity.

What if I do nothing and I’m not up to regulations?

This is legal and if you get found out you could be in a lot of trouble with the EA if you do nothing after being advised that you must.  This will include fines and possibly jail time not only that but you will not be able to sell your house if you do not provide documentation stating that you are within regulations.

How much will it cost?

The cost of work will of course depend on the level of investigation that is required and what work needs carry out there-after.  If you are a requiring an initial quote for investigation works or know what need to doing, get in touch, we will arrange a free site visit and competitive quote ASAP.

Cesspit Maintenance

How Often Your Cesspit Needs Emptying?

Cesspits are not designed to treat or remove the water that builds up inside of the tank, and so will consequently fill up a lot faster than septic tanks. This means they will need emptying more frequently as the waste that enters them is retained within the tank.

How regularly a cesspit needs to be emptied all depends on the size of your cesspit and the size of your household or organisation using it. That said, there are a few signs that your cesspit may be full and may need emptying.

If you have noticed that your drains are slower than usual, that there are odours coming from your drains, or that you have gurgling pipes then those may be signs that your cesspit needs emptying. Likewise, if you have noticed your sewer has backed up, then that is a clear sign your cesspit is full.

How Much Does It Cost to Empty Your Cesspit?

How much it costs to have your cesspit emptied varies depending on a few different factors. Those factors include how frequently you need it emptying, along with the size of the tank, as that does impact how long it takes to empty.

That being said, how much your cesspit costs to empty can vary depending on a number of different elements, so we advise you to speak to our engineers and request a quote today. Call us direct on 0800 66 88 00.

Why is Cesspit Maintenance Important?

It is essential that, if your property requires a septic tank or cesspit, you must clean it regularly and keep up to date with maintenance to both prevent future problems from arising and also to ensure you comply with regulations.

In the UK, it is possible to be fined if your cesspit is not maintained properly or if it leaks into the surrounding area, thus providing potential damage to the environment.

It is also important to regularly check your cesspit level and be careful to not let it overfill. Letting your cesspit overfill is against regulations according to the 1936 Public Health Act.

Who Is Responsible for Maintaining a Cesspit Tank?

If you own or use a property with a cesspit tank it is your responsibility to ensure that they do not negatively affect the environment.

As well as a regular emptying schedule, cesspits need to be regularly serviced and maintained to keep them in safe working order. This is just as important for the safety of your property as it is for protecting the environment.

UK regulations are in place to ensure septic tanks and cesspits are well maintained. All properties which own a cesspit or septic tank must adhere to the 2020 General Binding Rules, which regulate sewage treatments and waste to protect the environment from pollution.

If you have a specific cesspit need at your property, please do not hesitate to contact us for support by calling us direct on 0800 66 88 00.

What Can I Do to Help Maintain My Cesspit?

The great news is that there are certain things you can do in order to help maintain your cesspit and keep it working harder for longer.

• It is a good move to use biologically friendly household cleaning products. This means that there is nothing hazardous going down your drains when you regularly clean your sinks, toilets, or baths.
• Avoid pouring any flammable, hazardous, or medical fluids down the tanks. Not only do they potentially harm the environment in case of a leak, but they are also bad for the coating of the tank.
• To maintain your cesspit, it is recommended that you limit your water usage and avoid flushing anything other than human waste and toilet paper down the toilet. You should also avoid pouring cooking oil, grease, and chemicals down the drain, as these can damage the bacteria in your tank and cause blockages.
• Finally, keep a lookout for any of the signs that your cesspit may need emptying. If you suspect that it needs emptying then get it seen to as soon as possible to avoid any additional complications.

How Do You Safely Clean a Cesspit?

Cleaning a cesspit is a job for professionals trained in safe drainage and the removal of sewage. A drainage engineer will safely remove the waste, sucking it out of the cesspit by using a specialist tanker, and then transport it to a waste disposal facility.

With over 35 years’ experience in cesspit and septic tank emptying and cleaning, Metro Rod are one of the most trusted drainage companies in the UK. When using Metro Rod, you will receive reliable, hassle-free cesspit maintenance from a qualified network of engineers who are local to you. With access to the latest technology and equipment, we provide sewage tank services that are quick, effective and cause minimal disturbance.

For any unexpected problems, we provide emergency 24-hour callouts, as well as regular maintenance contracts which can help to avoid unnecessary messy situations.

If you have a septic tank or cesspit and would like a quote to empty the tank, get in touch with your local depot today or call us on 0800 66 88 00.

 

Septic Tanks vs Sewage Treatment Plants

Septic tanks and sewage treatment plants are both underground sedimentation tanks that safely dispose of sewage and wastewater from properties not connected to the main sewer. Although these sanitation systems have similar functions, there are distinct differences between the two.

Sewage Treatment Plants Explained

Sewage treatment plants are self-contained tanks commonly viewed as the modern upgrade to septic tanks. Although sewage treatment plants perform the same role as septic tanks, separating solid waste from the liquid and discharging it into a nearby soakaway or drainage field, they include an additional step to the process by treating the wastewater before releasing it. That is making it cleaner and more environmentally friendly. In addition, their design is where septic tanks and sewage treatment plants differ. Septic tanks comprise two chambers, whereas sewage treatment plants typically consist of three.

The wastewater treatment process is conducted in three stages:

The first stage is identical to septic tanks; sewage and wastewater enter the first chamber and are held until the solid waste separates from the liquid. During the second stage, the wastewater flows into the treatment chamber, where an air pump blows oxygen into it to stimulate the growth of aerobic bacteria. This form of bacteria requires oxygen to survive, and its purpose is to break down any remaining sewage within the wastewater, effectively cleaning it.

Once the fluid has been cleansed, it travels into the settlement chamber, where the aerobic bacteria drops to the bottom of the chamber. The purified liquid is discharged into a nearby soakaway or drainage field.

Although sewage treatment plants are viewed as the evolutionary upgrade to septic tanks, due to their complex design and efficient treatment process, there are a couple of shortcomings:

• To fill the treatment chamber with oxygen, the air pump requires a constant electricity supply to promote the growth of aerobic bacteria. This will result in additional costs as septic tanks don’t require electricity to function.

• Sewage treatment plants need more routine maintenance and service visits than septic tanks. Typically, septic tanks need to be emptied more often; however, sewage treatment plants are more susceptible to wear and tear due to their additional parts.

• Sewage treatment plants cost more to install than septic tanks, particularly if there isn’t an existing soakaway or watercourse for the effluent to discharge to.

It’s worthwhile mentioning that the cleansed wastewater from sewage treatment plants can be dispersed into other watercourses. However, you must notify your local water authority and gain their consent to do so.

Septic Tank or Sewage Treatment Plant, Which Option is Best for You?

To determine the best sanitation system for your site will depend on several key factors, such as expense, site constraints and permit requirements. If you’re seeking a new sanitation system, sewage treatment plants are more environmentally friendly as they provide cleaner effluent and require less frequent emptying than septic tanks. However, they cost more to install and need a constant electricity supply.

In contrast, septic tanks are more cost-efficient to install, but they require more space and frequent emptying to prevent residue build-up. Also, the introduction of the General Binding Rules in 2020 made it illegal for septic tanks to discharge into rivers, streams, ditches and other watercourses to prevent environmental pollution.

Generally, septic tanks are more suitable for single households or small development sites with adequate space to develop a soakaway system. On the other hand, sewage treatment plants are best suited for homes with multiple occupants, major development sites or commercial premises.

 

Expert Septic Tank and Cesspit Services

As drainage experts with over 35 years of experience, septic tanks aren’t new to us. We have been working with septic tanks for a long time. As a result, our tankers can tackle the biggest drainage problems that can arise.

Here at Metro Rod, we can clean septic tanks, ensuring that everything is in working order with no potential problems. Thanks to our growing fleet, we can send a tanker to empty your septic tank and dispose of the waste in the most environmentally friendly way with ease.

Metro Rod Pre-Planned Septic Tank and Cesspit Maintenance

We provide a pre-planned maintenance service where we schedule in the emptying of your septic tank in advance, so no need for you to think about getting in touch with us as we will give you a ring a short while before your next septic tank maintenance is due.

With a free site survey, our professional and experienced engineers can visit your site and advise on the best course of action.

We offer many services to both domestic & commercial clients, no job is to big or small. We have the equipment & expertise to make sure you or your business is free from any drainage problems you may have, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year!

• Blocked Drains
• Drain Repair
• Drain Surveys & Sewer Inspection
• Pre-Planned Maintenance
• Septic Tank Management
• Tanker Services
• Gutter Clearance

 

If you are unsure of the status of your own septic tank, we would be happy to come along and advise you and provide a free of charge quote. If you find yourself running into difficulties with your drains, our engineers are available 24/7/365