An on-site sewage management system is a term used to refer to:

• Septic systems
• Aerated Wastewater Treatment System (AWTS) and
• Pump-out systems.

What Kind of System do I Have?

Although there are many variations of kinds of on-site effluent systems, there are 3 main types in use in the Shoalhaven.

Septic System 

Septic tanks and trench style absorption field systems are the most common type of septic system. Septic tanks treat both greywater (from shower, sinks and washing machines) and blackwater (toilet and kitchen water). They provide only limited treatment through the settling of solids and the flotation of fats and grease. Bacteria in the tank break down the solids over a period of time. Wastewater that has been treated in a septic tank can only be applied to the land through a covered soil absorption system.

A standard septic tank may look something like this:

Pump-Out System

This is the kind of system you will have if you are on a regular pump-out schedule. Pump-out systems involve the preliminary on-site treatment of wastewater in a septic tank, followed by collection and transportation of the treated wastewater to a Wastewater Treatment Plant. Pump-out systems use road tankers to transport the effluent. A household septic tank on pump-out usually consists of two round concrete tanks with lids placed close to each other. They are connected by a pipe. To allow the road tanker to pump out the system, a standpipe is located at the boundary of the property; this is where the tanker connects to your system.

A pump-out system standpipe may look like this:

Aerated Waste Treatment Systems (AWTS)

The AWTS system consists of two tanks (sometimes within a single larger tank). The first is a basic septic tank where solids settle, and anaerobic digestion occurs. In the second, oxygen is bubbled through the effluent to  encourage aerobic bacteria to digest the waste. Finally, the effluent is disinfected using chlorine or ultra-violet light before being pumped to an irrigation area. The effluent from an aerated septic tank is usually treated and disinfected to a standard suitable for irrigated onto land. An AWTS is most often a concrete tank installed underground so you only see the lid and electrical control box.

An AWTS system may look something like this:

Brands of AWTS include:

• Biocycle
• Bioseptic
• Econocycle
• Envirocycle
• FujiClean
• Garden Master
• Taylex
• Supertreat
• Ultraclear

Maintaining a Septic System

Systems if carefully operated, can last 10 years before a cleanout is required. This of course depends on the care each system receives. The following is a guide on how to achieve the most from a system.

Points to consider:

• Every property that has an effluent pump out system (contained tanks) should be on a scheduled service frequency to maintain the approval to operate the system.

Septic cleanouts (seep away systems and the collection tank of an effluent system) should be conducted at least every 10 years depending on the degree of use and care of the system discharges. Trenches to septic tank seep away systems should ideally be located away from trees and have cleared exposure to direct sun. Grass should be cut regularly to promote drying.

• Septic tanks are meant to be full. Some odours may be present and this is not unusual.

Please note that during excessive rain periods, rainwater may infiltrate the tanks or trenches on the property causing the system to fail. Keeping the tank lid clear of grass, plants and weeds is a good way of caring for your tank, if cracks appear in the lid and noticed it is important to get them fixed.

Septic Systems – Trouble shooting and Warning Signs

Look out for a few warning signs that signal that there are troubles with the septic tank. Ensure that these problems are attended to immediately to protect the health of residents and the environment.

Look out for the following:

• Water that drains too slowly
• Drainpipes that gurgle and make noises when air bubbles are forced back through the system
• Strong and persistent sewerage smells indicate a likely problem
• Water is backing up into the sink which may indicate that the septic system is already failing

Do I need a clean-out? 

Regular care and maintenance of your system is important. If you’re experiencing warning symptoms, there are several products on the market that can help maintain a healthy system. Most are enzyme activated products that digest fats, grease and other wastes that can clog the system and cause odours. Usually dosed through the toilet and then flushed, it will significantly increase the time between cleanouts.

Tried these steps and still have a problem? It’s probably a good idea to request a clean-out of your system.

How do I arrange a Septic Tank Cleanout?

You can request a cleanout service using our online Septic Tank Cleanout Request, you’ll find this in the Related Links on this page. The cleanout will be undertaken within 3 days of submission of your online request, with payment via credit card.

If you require an EMERGENCY Cleanout, contact us directly on 4429-3214.

An emergency service will be undertaken within 24 hours. Please note that there is an additional fee payable plus the standard cleanout fee. You will be sent an invoice for this service.