Septic Tanks

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What Are Septic Tanks?

A septic tank is an underground chamber or tank that holds sewage from a property while it undergoes initial treatment and processing. The key functions of a septic tank are:

1. Collect – Septic tanks collect all greywater and blackwater from toilets, sinks, washing machines, showers and more. This keeps untreated sewage contained underground.

2. Settle & Separate – Inside the tanks, solids sink to the bottom forming sludge while oils and grease float to the top as scum. This allows the liquid effluent in the middle to flow out.

3. Digest & Discharge – Naturally occurring anaerobic bacteria start breaking down solids. The liquid waste then discharges through an outlet pipe into the next part of the septic system – usually a drainage field or soil-based filter for further processing and water re-absorption.

4. Store – Sludge and scum accumulates in sections of the tank so it doesn’t clog up the rest of the system. This is pumped out every 2-5 years on average.

Septic tanks provide natural, biological treatment of waste water onsite in rural areas, homes, and properties without connections to main sewer lines. They are common solutions but require proper maintenance and practice for effective, eco-friendly sewage management.

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    we offer a

    Full Health Check and Septic System Report

    If you’re moving house or buying a new property with a septic tank we can provide a full health check and system report for your peace of mind to ensure there are no problems.

    If you’re unsure whether your septic tank meets the new general binding rules give ADP Environmental Services a call. We can offer a free site inspection. Once we know the type and condition of your system we offer a quote for any recommended works. This may include repairs or a replacement tank and soak away/drainage field.

    “I dont know what’s happened…”

    What Causes Problems With Septic Tanks?

    Whilst septic tanks themselves are fairly resilient, issues can occur with components like piping to the home, the drainage system, or if maintenance is neglected. Common problems include:

    • Blockages – Roots, foreign objects, excess solids can clog inlet/outlet pipes or drain field piping causing backups.

    • Overflows – Too much water entering the tank from heavy rain or excess water use can cause the tank to overflow before liquids fully separate and digest.

    • Soil Saturation – If effluent isn’t adequately filtered and absorbed, the soil around the drainage system becomes oversaturated.

    • Pump Failures – Malfunctioning pumps prevent proper transferring of liquid to drainage field.

    • Lack of Maintenance – Skipping regular inspections, pumping, and upkeep leads to solids overflow, clogs, odor, etc.

    • System Overload – Outdated systems or increased occupancy/water use can overload system capacity.

    At ADP Environmental Services, we are extremely well-versed in diagnoses and solutions for any septic tank or sewage problems. Our experts can design systems sized and equipped to handle property demands. With proper installation, use and maintenance, issues can be prevented or fixed promptly.

     

     

    our services

    We Specialise in Septic Tanks and Offer…

    Contract Customers

    Tank Installations

    • A full inspection and compliance service

    • Insurance repairs and replacement service

    • CCTV Surveys

    • Empty and clean service

    • Drainage field or soak away check and replacement

    Trusted by over 800 companies across the UK
    septic tank insurance

    Septic Tank Problems Covered by Insurance

    Not many people are aware but your septic tank may also be covered under your house insurance. This is usually covered under accidental damage and costly repairs or replacements of non-compliant systems could be paid for under your current policy for any septic tank problems you may experience.

    Please contact us for further information and prices on our septic tank services.

    Septic Tanks

    What to do when you have septic tank problems

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    Looking For a Trustworthy Service Near you? Get in Touch WithADP Environmental Services