Septic Tank Question

[NoseyNose]

We are not on mains sewage here,and so have a septic tank.

When my partner was alive,he could lift the manhole cover,and peer into the septic tank, to see if it was full.(I am not strong enough to do this!)

Is there an easy way to check this,or should I just book a company to empty it.It used to be emptied about every 3 years(It is a LARGE tank.)but I cannot remember when it was last drained.

Any advice/suggestions would be gratefully received!

[barry1010]

If you can't think of anyone you could ask to lift the cover for you, get it emptied.  

You will have peace of mind, nobody wants a blocked tank

[The Builder]

Hiya Nosey...

If it's a normal septic tank, then they are usually 'de-sludged' every year. Since it's a large tank, and there were only two of you, then leaving it longer is no problem.

The thing to remember is that a tank fills up (mostly just water), and the level is right up to the top. That's normal.  People often think that it should be emptied then. That's not the case. De-sludging takes care of it.

If in doubt, phone a tank-emptying fella. He check it for you and get it done.

[NoseyNose]

barry1010

Yes,I agree that given the possible length of time since it was emptied last,just booking a company seems to be the logical answer.

However, a friend is taking me shopping on Monday,so I will see if he can lift the manhole cover?

If he can't then I shall just have to book a company to empty it.

Thanks for your advice.

[NoseyNose]

The Builder

Thanks,that just confirms my opinion.As you say,as there is only two of us,it probably may not need emptying now.Yes,the level of water is deceptive,we emptied it every year,and then found that it could go much longer.

Thanks 

[Buenchico]

If you do decide to call in a tank-emptying service, I've been doing a bit of googling and I've found that Southern Cesspool Services Ltd are based just 17 miles away from you and they've got excellent reviews on Google and elsewhere. 

Perhaps it might be worth calling to explain your problem to them?
https://southerncesspoolservices.com/cesspool-emptying/

[barry1010]

That was kind of you, Buenchico :) 

[NoseyNose]

A big thank you Buenchico for that info.

I shall investigate it,and report back.

First of all I have to decide if it's necessary.

Hopefully,on Monday,my friend will lift the manhole cover and we will see?LOL

[Countrylover]

We rarely have ours emptied.  It's a really old  brick one and works perfectly.  We've been told by quite a few sewage disposal companies that thd old ones work far better.  As long as you use them properly!  To be honest I would rather have our septic tank than main drainage where you are having to rely on neighbours to flush sensibly.