Frequently Asked Questions
Design
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I need a Primary or Secondary Septic System?
There are many variables when determining the appropriate type of wastewater treatment system for your property. In most instances, we prefer to install a Primary Septic System as this is the simplest, most cost-effective, and low-maintenance option. Please see Our Systems page for more information to determine which system suits your property best.
What is a Primary Septic System?
Known as the conventional septic system, primary septic systems are the simplest wastewater system on the market and the most cost effective. They comprise of a septic tank which utilises anaerobic bacteria (bacteria not requiring oxygen to live) as its form of treating wastewater.
Dispersal to the effluent field is usually via sub-surface absorption trenches where wastewater is further treated whilst dispersing into the soil. This can be achieved via gravity or by a pump where sufficient fall cannot be achieved. Primary septic systems treat the water to a lesser quality than secondary systems but have the advantage of requiring less power. They are perfect for properties which require low maintenance septic solutions and for remote and rural households without close proximity to dams or nearby waterways.
What is a Secondary Septic System?
For those that are more environmental conscious or have properties with site constraints such as size and soil type, a better option is a secondary or advanced secondary treatment system. These treat the wastewater twice – either via a passive filter system (using media to treat the wastewater), or an aerated treatment system (using oxygen to treat the wastewater).
All secondary and advanced secondary systems clean the wastewater to a premium level to ensure it is not harmful to humans or animals. The result of the wastewater being treated to the highest level enables the water from the septic systems to be used on gardens. Aerated treatment systems may be a better fit on smaller properties due to its smaller footprint.
What is an aerated treatment system? What is a AWTS system?
An aerated treatment system is a type of secondary treatment system which treats the wastewater to a secondary or advanced secondary level. As water comes from the house into the system, Aerated Treatment Wastewater Systems (AWTS) treats the wastewater through different stages 5 processes – primary, aeration, clarification, disinfection and irrigation.
All requires constant power supply and they operate 24/7 as all require a pump to operate. Most AWTS systems require continued servicing every three moths as per the conditions of a Permit To Use obtained once the system has been installed.
What do you consider before designing a septic system for my property?
Important considerations when planning and designing your septic system include property planning overlays; water catchment area, dams, and waterways; building in terms of the number of potential bedrooms; expected daily wastewater loads; outdoor living requirements and proposed future usage of the land. Eg. sheds, pools, extensions, etc. Please see Our Systems page for more information on what to consider before designing a septic system.
I am building my house off grid, can I have a septic system without power?
More and more people are building their dream houses off grid with the intention of going completely solar with battery back up. Some pumped septic systems are able to be powered by solar panels and battery back up when solar in not available. Some systems can be powered by your home’s solar system, it is best to contact the supplier to see if this is possible.
Can I reuse the water from my treatment system inside my home?
Under no circumstances can the wastewater generated from your septic system be used inside your house. Our current legislation in each State and Territory prevents the reuse of wastewater from a secondary wastewater treatment system.
Can I use a garbage disposal unit?
In short, unfortunately, no. Garbage disposal units grind up food matter and discharge this into the septic system, leading to higher organic loading which overloads the treatment capacity of the system. We recommend you dispose of any food waste in a compost or garbage bin.
Can I have a spa bath?
In short, yes. Spa baths generally hold a relatively large volume of water. There may be the need to allow for a larger septic tank to account for the increase in water if the spa has a capacity over 200lt.
Can I cover the top of my system?
No! All openings of the septic system including the septic tank and pump chambers need to be secured in place and remain accessible at all times for us to complete inspections and maintenance. Please be aware there are pipes buried near your septic system. Please speak to us before digging or undertaking excavation jobs near your septic system to eliminate any potential damage.
Always refer to your installation plan which shows the location of all components of your septic system.
Can I build over my septic?
No! Your septic system area is required to be a permanently dedicated wastewater area. You MUST NOT build, concrete, or pave over septic tanks, chambers or any drainage effluent field.
Can the pool filter backwash discharge into the system?
Absolutely not! Pool backwash contains chlorine, which is used to kill any bacteria in the pool so it will kill the bacteria in your septic system. You will also hydraulically overload the system and cause severe damage to your septic system. All pool backwash is to be connected separately to your septic system.
What are effluent disposal fields and how do I choose the right one for my property?
An effluent disposal field is the area to safely dispose of the treated effluent from your wastewater system. This occurs within the boundaries of the property through absorption trenches (underground trenches where the water soaks into the ground), subsurface irrigation, (underground irrigation systems) or wick trenches (trench where a layer of geotextile fabric acts as a “wick” to draw liquid upward from the trench to the bed).
The type of effluent system for your property may be determined by the climate, soil type, and site constraints of your property. We can help guide you through this process to help determine the best and most cost-effective method for you.
Permit
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I require Council Approval?
Yes. A permit to install must be obtained prior to the installation of ALL wastewater treatment systems. This is something we look after for you to make the process easier. Simply provide us with the required documents and will complete the septic permit application on your behalf.
What information do I need to provide when applying for a septic permit?
To save you the stress, we’re able to assist you with the lodgement of the septic permit application. You simply need to provide us with a copy of the site plan and address, a copy of the building floor plan, owner’s details, a copy of the title, Council septic permit fees, and if required a copy of the Land Capability Assessment and Planning permit.
What is an LCA Report?
The Land Capacity Assessment Report designs the overall on-site wastewater requirements for your site including whether you require a Primary or Secondary treatment system and a specific design of the Land Application Area. It is completed by a soil engineer who completes a soil permeability test and other site-specific investigations to determine the best wastewater system for your property.
This LCA Report is different and separate from the Soil Tests reports you and your builder may obtain for the footings/foundations of your new dwelling.
What is the ‘Land Application Area’ or LAA?
The Land Application Area is the location of the dispersal field identified in a LCA report. This is where the treated wastewater from your dwelling is applied to the land. There are many methods of ‘land application’, including sub-surface Irrigation, absorption drains, and wick trench and bed systems.
How long will it take to obtain my permit?
Once you septic permit has been lodged with Council, we allow on average 3-4 weeks to obtain a permit to install from. Some Councils may take longer depending on their workloads. Once the septic permit has been received, if it is for a new build, we will forward you a copy for you to provide your building surveyor, as a septic permit is required before you are able to obtain your building permit. If it is for an upgrade, once we provide you with the permit to install, we will liaise with to determine the best time to come and complete the septic installation.
Installation
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you install in regional areas of Victoria?
Yes, we cover a large range of Eastern Victoria, servicing from Lake Entrance through to Pakenham.
Can I install my own system?
No – The installation of all wastewater treatment systems must be performed by a licensed plumber or drainer.
How long does it take to install a septic system?
We are usually in and out in a day, which means less disruption for your build and your property.
Do you complete the power connection?
As your new home is nearing completion, it will be time to connect power to your system which is completed by an electrician. You will need to organise this power connection to your septic system with your builder, this is something we are unable to complete for you. We ask you please ensure this is completed at least two weeks prior to your move-in date to ensure all paperwork is received from Council.
What do I require to use my system?
You will need a permit to use before you are able to use your septic system. For new builder, we will provide this to your builder to ensure they are able to obtain the certificate of occupancy.
What is the installation process?
In the case of new builds, we will come and complete the septic installation once the house has reached lock up and the site clean has been undertaken. We manage the installation process directly with your builder regarding the site access and progress of your build and/or plumber to determine the sewer location.
We organise to meet with yourself on the morning of installation to ensure you are happy with the location of all components of the septic system prior to us commencing excavation works. This ensures a smooth installation process, with minimum installation time and maximum aesthetic value.
Servicing
Frequently Asked Questions
Do systems need to be serviced?
Yes! All septic systems need to be serviced. The type of treatment system you purchase will determine how much and how often the system will be required to be serviced. Your permit to use will identify the frequency of servicing is required for your septic system.
Aerated treatment systems need to be serviced quarterly as per their conditions of use by a qualified servicing agent or qualified plumber, passive treatment systems are to be serviced annually and those with a pumped standard system are required to undertake some yearly maintenance. Please see our Services page for more information on servicing.
How often does my system need to be serviced?
Primary septic systems required the least amount of maintenance whereby only the septic tank is to be desludged on average every 3 years. The VS 1200 Passive Treatment system requires yearly servicing as a recommendation to all owners. In comparison, all aerated treatment systems require quarterly servicing by a service agent or from those qualified to complete the servicing.
Why do they need to be serviced?
Your septic system is an expensive asset that requires servicing to ensure it continues to work correctly. Regular servicing of your septic system will maintain and prolong the life of your system, identify issues critical to its performance, and avoid mishaps and financial loss from a broken-down system.
Regular servicing helps to protect your health, your family’s health, and the local environment and it is also a requirement of state and local government authorities that wastewater treatment systems are serviced by an accredited service technician.
How much does it cost to service a system?
Servicing costs can vary depending on the type of system and the area where you are situated. If you are in a remote area from our base, I am sure you can appreciate the cost for a service technician to travel to your home will be slightly higher than those close to our base.
Where possible, we try to consolidate several properties our technicians can attend to save costs to owners. Owners can expect to pay anywhere from $200 – $400 for a service of their septic system, any additional works that need to be completed whilst onsite will be an additional cost.
Who can service my septic system?
We can! All septic systems are to be serviced by registered, licensed wastewater service personnel or licensed plumbers as in most cases a report will need to be sent to your local Council to advise a service has been undertaken on your septic system.
Unlicensed personnel are not allowed to service any treatment system but you also want to make sure the person completing a service on your septic system knows what they are doing and looking for to ensure it is working at its optimum performance.
Desludging
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is desludging so important?
Desludging is one of the most important things you can do to protect and prolong the life of all types of wastewater systems.
As you use your system, it will build sludge (a layer of solids that settle at the bottom of the system) and scum (the layer that floats on top of the primary septic tank which consists of fats, oils and grease).
Without regular desludging, the quality of the final effluent is significantly reduced and your system may also build high levels of suspended solids which can block filters, damage pumps, block effluent fields and clog passive treatment systems.
How often do I need to desludge my septic system?
Your septic tank should be desludged every 3 years or as required upon assessment by a suitable contractor. If you have a passive treatment system (sand filter) you should also get your pump chamber desludged at the same time to remove any sludge which may have built up at the bottom of your pump chambers.
It should be performed by an accredited liquid waste removal contractor and a record of the pump out should be kept as it may be required for some local councils.
How do I know if my tank needs to be desludged?
The best way to determine if your septic tank requires desludging is to measure the ‘sludge’ and ‘scum’ layer with a measuring tube. Many septic tanks are buried, which can make it difficult to inspect the sludge levels. We can help by taking the sludge level for you to determine if it is required for your system.
What happens if I don’t desludge my septic tank?
Failure to do so could cause the build-up of solids within the tank which can then overflow into the treatment system. Over a period of time the treatment system could then become clogged and no longer function correctly.
What can I do to reduce the sludge build up in my septic tank?
By putting into practice the below you can reduce the build up of sludge in your septic tank:
- Avoid disinfectant products to improve the bacterial treatment in the septic tank;
- Scrape all dishes to remove fats, grease etc before washing the dishes;
- Keep all possible kitchen solids out of the septic system;
- Don’t use a garbage grinder unless the system has been specifically designed to carry the extra load;
- Don’t put sanitary napkins and other hygiene products into the system.
What should I get delsudged?
When you desludge your septic tank, you should also desludge any dosing/dispersal chambers to help maintain your septic system’s optimum performance. This will ensure sludge is removed from all components and prolong the life of your septic system.
Trouble Shooting
Frequently Asked Questions
My system is alarming/ red light is flashing, what do I do?
Some wastewater treatment system have a warning alarm which consist of audible and/or lights. When the alarm is on, it is alerting you to a system fault which needs to be attended to as soon as possible. Please contact us as soon as you are alerted to your system alarming.
There is an odour coming from my system. What does this mean?
In come cases, odour can be caused from your septic system when bacteria dies within your septic system. This can be causes by excessive or the use of incorrect cleaning chemicals, large volumes of incoming water (e.g. lots of washing or a large party) or a lack of use while the house has been vacant (e.g. holiday homes).
Bacteria can be restored within your septic system by simply placing the required amount of Actizyme down your toilet or through the use of hydrated lime available from hardware stores. If the odours persist, you may need to get your wastewater treatment system pumped out (desludged).
My septic system smells, what can I do?
A septic system will usually only smell if it is not working correctly. This can be caused by any number of things. The most common reason is the septic is old and the drains have become clogged over the years by tree roots or inappropriate products being used in the system. Please contact us to discuss how we can rectify the smell from your septic system.
There is a wet spot in my septic drain area? Is that okay?
No! If you have a wet spot in your drainage area it may mean that your system isn’t coping with the amount of wastewater going into it. This could be due to any number of things including:
- Soil quality – may have a high clay content and difficult to absorb the wastewater.
- Leaking plumbing fixture – may be putting excessive water into the septic system.
- Damaged drains – possibly by trees, vehicles or buildings in the vicinity of the drains.
A septic assessment would be able to ascertain the reason and provide you with a recommendation on the repair or replacement of your system.
What happens if one of my pumps fails?
Your alarm will activate in both audio and visual form of one of your pumps is to fail. In the rare instance one of you pumps fails, contact us to determine how we can best assist you.
Is there a warranty on the pumps?
Yes. There is a two year manufacturer’s warranty on the dosing pump and a three year manufacturer’s warranty on the dispersal pump.
If I purchase a property with an existing septic system, how can I locate the septic system?
You can contact your local Council and request they provide you with a copy of a septic plan if available. If not, a septic assessment may be required to ascertain the type of system and location of all the components and whether it is working correctly. Please feel free to call us for an assessment of your system.
Can all styles of septic systems be repaired?
Most wastewater treatment systems can be repaired, contact us to determine how we can assist you in the repair of your septic system.
Caring for your System
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I care for my system?
To enhance the performance of your system and to maximise its service life, you can take care of your system by:
- Ensure your system is properly maintained with regular servicing and the desludging of your septic tank is undertaken every 3 years.
- Make sure you are using cleaning products labelled as ‘biodegradable’ or ‘septic-safe’ suitable for septic systems and in moderation.
- Use low-phosphorus or phosphorus-free detergents, and natural or alternative cleaners where possible
- Ensure toilet paper is used at a minimum, especially in households with children.
- Avoid large loads of wastewater entering your system (e.g. several loads of washing in quick succession or a large number of people at a party).
What cleaning products can I use in my septic system?
Septic systems rely on bacteria to help reduce the solids within the system and treat the wastewater. What you put down your drains and toilets will affect how well your septic system functions. Maintaining a healthy level of bacteria is vital to keep the system operating.
Disinfectants are harmful and have serious implications on the processes of a healthy septic system. You need to restrict the use of harsh chemicals or bleaches and avoid all caustic products, as these can kill the micro-organisms and reduce the effectiveness of the system.
Are there products which I should not use in my system?
Septic systems rely on bacteria to help reduce the solids within the system and treat the wastewater. What you put down your drains and toilets will affect how well your septic system functions. Maintaining a healthy level of bacteria is vital to keep the system operating.
Disinfectants are be harmful and have serious implications on the processes of a healthy septic system. You need to restrict the use of harsh chemicals or bleaches and avoid all caustic products, as these can kill the micro-organisms and reduce the effectiveness of the system.
- Bleaches, whiteners, nappy soakers, spot removers, disinfectants, chlorinated products, sterilisation agents
- Antibacterial products and unused medicines
- Paint, petroleum products or other solvents, chemicals, acid cleaners
- Solid materials such as paper, plastic, sanitary napkins, tampons, condoms, nappies or baby wipes
- Food scraps, fats and oils
- Insecticides, herbicides, pesticides
- Trade waste from commercial or industrial premises, stormwater from downpipes or rainwater tank overflows and backwash water from pools, spa pools or water softeners
Please be aware, some strong medications such as blood pressure tablets, chemotherapy and antibiotics can destroy the natural processes of a wastewater treatment system. These systems may require more regular desludging of the septic tank and/or maintenance. If you have placed any of the materials listed into your system, please contact us for advice and what action may be required.
Can I use any toilet paper in my septic system?
Toilet paper can be tricky, especially if you are using lots of it as this can cause blockages in your septic system. We encourage you to check on the packaging that the particular type of toilet paper you use is recommended for septic tank use. It is very important to use minimal toilet paper to prevent blockages at the beginning/opening of the septic tank and to reduce the frequency of desludging your septic tank. Particular attention should be paid to the amount of toilet paper placed in the system by children within the dwelling.
What floor cleaner is suitable for my septic system?
We highly recommend you use hot water and natural bacterial cleaners such as Vinegar, Bicarbonate of Soda, or Tee-Tree Oil. When finished it is recommended to dispose of the water on the lawn or garden rather than flushing it down the sink.
What plants can I plant near my wastewater system?
You have to be mindful that some vegetation can cause major problems to your septic system. Trees on top of any part of the septic system must be avoided. Roots can infiltrate the system, effluent field, and associated pipes, causing blockages or breakages, preventing the septic system from functioning as it should. These situations can be minimised by the careful planning and appropriate placement of plants, shrubs, and trees.
What types of plants and trees should I plant near my system?
It’s important to consider the right types of plants around your wastewater treatment system. Large trees and shrubs with water-seeking roots may cause damage to your septic system if planted too close.
Smaller shrubs and ground cover are most suitable for the area around your wastewater treatment system with a setback of at least two metres. Grass is the most suitable type of vegetation for subsurface irrigation. If in doubt, please consult with your local nursery for the best option for your property.
What does it mean when the Council asks for water testing of my septic system?
Your local authority may require water quality tests to be conducted on your septic system once it has been installed. This is a requirement of your permit to use your septic system. The frequency of these tests is determined by your local authority. If you are contacted by your local authority, please contact us and we can organise an inspection, complete a septic service and commission the water sample on your behalf. All records are kept, and reports are sent to yourself and the local authority.
Can I turn the system off when I go on holiday?
It is best to leave the power at your septic system on while you go on holidays or if the property is a holiday home. Whilst some septic systems can manage with the power turned off (those with submersible pumps which only operate when water is used), some treatment systems require power to run all the time (aerated treatment systems). It is best to keep the power on, just to be sure.
VS1200 Passive Treatment System
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens to my VS1200 Passive Treatment System in the event of a power failure?
As the VS1200 Passive Treatment System has minimal mechanical components and adequate built-in storage, in the event you may continue to dispose of household wastewater as usual for up to 1-2 days.
Is my pumped primary septic system or VS1200 Passive Treatment System suitable if I have only stand-alone solar power?
Yes. As the only component requiring power is the submersible pumps, you may allow the treated effluent in the pump chamber to build up and for your solar power to operate the pumps as minimal power is required for operation.
Is the VS1200 Passive Treatment System suitable if I go on holiday, or have extended periods of non-usage?
Yes. The microbiological culture within the passive treatment system will survive for long periods of non-usage until further organic material is again available as sustenance.
What is the difference between the VS1200 Passive Treatment System and an Aerated Treatment System?
The VS1200 Passive Treatment System uses an aerobic sand filtration system which uses a completely natural method of achieving “aeration”. It takes advantage of natural site conditions and uses the natural and passive processes of gravity and hydraulic displacement, to ensure minimal maintenance requirements. It is the most energy-efficient system available.
In contrast, the aerated treatment systems achieve “aeration” by mechanical means and requires an air-blower that operates continuously / up to 24 hours each day. Such systems have continuous replacement costs, high electricity usage, noise (from the air blower) and odor (from the exhaust vent on the tank).
What are the ongoing expenses for the VS1200 Passive Treatment System?
The on-going expenses are:
- Annual Service – Approximately $150 – $200
- Cost of power to operate the pump – approximately $100 per year.
- Cost of desludging of the septic tank from a local contractor.
What are VS1200 Passive Treatment System Operating Costs?
The VS1200 Passive Treatment System has minimal operating and maintenance expenses with the only mechanical components are the submersible pumps. There are no air blowers and/or vents to the surrounding atmosphere. The cost of power to operate the pumps – approximately $100 per year for an average family of 4-6 people.
How much power does a system use?
Once again it all depends on the type of septic system you have. A traditional septic system which encompasses a septic tank to absorption drains have no electrical, therefore no power is consumed. Septic systems with a pump such as pumped traditional systems and passive systems have minimal power consumption as the pumps only operated when they are turned on. The number of people living in the house and how much water each person uses will alter how often and how long the pump will run for. Their average power consumption is between 0.045 – 0.089 kWh/d.
Aerated wastewater systems require more power and they have blowers and pumps which operate 24/7, depending on the type of system. Average power consumption can vary between 5.52 – 6.16 kWh/d.