If you live in a rural area of southern England or a location without access to a mains sewage system, there is a high possibility that you have a septic tank. While septic tanks have been the standard solution for waste management in these areas for decades, they are not without their drawbacks. In recent years, sewage treatment plants have become a popular alternative to septic tanks. In this article, we’ll explore why you should consider replacing your septic tank with a sewage treatment plant.
The Drawbacks of Septic Tanks
Maintenance and Repair Costs
Septic tanks require regular maintenance and pumping to prevent solids buildup and clogging. This can be a costly and time-consuming process, especially if your tank is located far from the road or in a difficult-to-access area. Additionally, if your septic tank needs repairs, it can be a major expense and inconvenience.
Environmental Impact
Septic tanks can have a negative impact on the environment if not properly maintained. When a septic tank is not pumped regularly, it can overflow and release untreated sewage into the surrounding soil and water sources. This can lead to contamination of groundwater and nearby bodies of water, posing a risk to both human health and the environment.
Limited Tank Capacity
Septic tanks have a limited capacity and can only hold a certain amount of waste before needing to be pumped. This can be a problem for larger households or commercial properties, as they may need to be emptied more frequently, leading to higher maintenance costs.
The Benefits of Sewage Treatment Plants
Lower Maintenance and Repair Costs
One of the main benefits of a sewage treatment plant is that it will require less maintenance and repair compared to septic tanks. This is because sewage treatment plants use a mechanical process to treat and dispose of waste, rather than relying on natural processes like septic tanks. This means less frequent pumping and fewer repairs, resulting in cost savings in the long run.
Environmental Friendliness
Sewage treatment plants are designed to treat and dispose of waste in an environmentally friendly manner. The mechanical process used in sewage treatment plants ensures that waste is properly treated and disposed of, reducing the risk of contamination to the surrounding environment. This makes sewage treatment plants a more sustainable and eco-friendly option compared to septic tanks.
Environmental Regulations
Since 2020, their have new environmental regulations regarding septic tanks and their discharges.
Higher Capacity
Sewage treatment plants have a higher capacity compared to septic tanks, making them a better option for larger households or commercial properties. This means less frequent emptying and a lower risk of overflow. Resulting in cost savings and convenience for property owners.
How to Replace Your Septic Tank with a Sewage Treatment Plant
Replacing your septic tank with a sewage treatment plant is a major decision and should not be taken lightly. Here are the steps you should follow to ensure a smooth and successful transition.
1. Assess Your Property
The first step is to assess your property and determine if it is suitable for a sewage treatment plant. Factors to consider include the size of your property, the type of soil, and the proximity to water sources. It’s also important to check with your local authorities to ensure that you are allowed to install a sewage treatment plant on your property.
2. Carry Out A Septic Tank Survey
A survey by an experienced drainage engineer will confirm whether your existing Septic Tank system meets the requirements of current UK legislation.
3. Choose the Right System
There are various types of sewage treatment plants available, so it’s important to choose the right one for your property. Factors to consider include the size of your property, the number of people using the system, and the type of waste that is produced. It’s best to consult with a professional to determine the best system for your specific needs.
4. Hire a Professional
Installing a sewage treatment plant is a complex process and should be done by a professional. They will have the necessary expertise and equipment to ensure that the system is installed correctly and meets all safety and environmental standards.
5. Arrange to Decommission Your Septic Tank
Once your sewage treatment plant is installed, your septic tank will need to be decommissioned. This involves pumping out any remaining waste and filling the tank with sand or gravel. It’s important to hire a professional for this step to ensure that it is done safely and in compliance with local regulations.
6. Regular Maintenance
Like any other system, sewage treatment plants require regular maintenance to ensure they continue to function properly. This includes regular inspections, cleaning, and pumping. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for maintenance to keep your system running smoothly.
Real-World Examples of Septic Tank Replacement with a Sewage Treatment Plant
For a list of satisfied customers please see our testimonials page.
Example 1: A Rural Homeowner in Dorset
A homeowner in a rural area was experiencing frequent septic tank issues and was tired of the high maintenance costs. They decided to replace their septic tank with a sewage treatment plant. The new system has a higher capacity and requires less maintenance, resulting in cost savings and convenience for the homeowner.
Example 2: A Commercial Property in Hampshire
A commercial property with a large number of employees was struggling with frequent septic tank issues. They decided to replace their septic tank with a sewage treatment plant to accommodate their high volume of waste. The new system has a higher capacity and requires less maintenance, resulting in cost savings and convenience for the property owner.
Example 3: A Golf Club in Tunbridge Wells, Kent
This golf course had used an old septic tank system that required updating. We carried out a survey of the septic tank and recommended a sewage treatment plant with sufficient capacity for the club.
A Summary of our Advice
Replacing your septic tank with a sewage treatment plant can offer numerous benefits, including lower maintenance and repair costs, environmental friendliness, and higher capacity. If you are considering making the switch, be sure to assess your property, choose the right system, and hire a professional for both the septic tank survey and the installation of the sewage treatment plant. With proper maintenance, a sewage treatment plant can provide a more efficient and sustainable solution for waste management on your property.
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