Septic Tank Replacement
With over two decades of industry experience, OMDI stands as the authority in crafting, installing, and maintaining septic tanks for both commercial and residential properties across the UK.
If you’re a business proprietor seeking eco-friendly wastewater processing or a homeowner without access to main sewage pipes, our team is well equipped to guide you towards the most economical and efficient solutions.
The average lifespan of a septic tank is 20-30 years. If you’re looking for a septic tank replacement, our professional team is here to assist you.
How a Septic Tank Works
A septic tank is an oxygen-free digestion pool containing trillions of anaerobic bacteria that feast on organic compounds. The bacteria break down your waste and release a mix of gases.
The septic tank is the first stop on a wastewater’s journey back into the earth from your home. All household water from sinks, showers, and toilets empty into this chamber where the water goes through internal baffles that allow solids to sink as sludge or float as scum, while the clarified liquid between, known as the effluent, leaves the tank.
Step by step the effluent gains clarity until it is ready for release from the tank’s outlet pipe. It travels onward through a drain field, seeping into gravel trenches. In the drain field, the effluent undergoes further treatment as it flows through the soil. The soil acting as a natural filter removes any remaining impurities and harmful microorganisms from the water.
Pathogen-free, the effluent’s long transformation ends as it replenishes groundwater stores or flows into glistening streams – the septic tank both protects the land and completes nature’s cycle.
Assessing When Replacement Is Needed
Your septic tank is a vital component to your health and the environment, so how can you identify when it’s time for replacing a septic tank?
Here are some signs that indicate when it’s time for a septic tank replacement:
Initial Assessment
Begin by assessing the frequency of desludging or pumping, checking if it’s more frequent than the recommended 3-5 years. If you find yourself desludging more often, this could indicate potential issues with your septic tank. Consider factors such as excessive solids accumulation, which can decrease the tank’s storage capacity and compromise its efficiency. Also, check for a possible mismatch in tank size especially if you’ve had an increase in occupants in your home, or a decline in bacterial activity, both of which can contribute to diminished performance.
Performance Issues
Look for backups, blockages, or surface pooling of wastewater around the soakaway or drainage field area. Any of these suggests that the tank’s inlet or outlet is obstructed or malfunctioning, hindering the proper flow of effluent for treatment and dispersal into the soil. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial to maintaining the effectiveness of your septic system.
Age-Related Concerns
Consider the age of your septic tank, especially if it’s a concrete tank over 25-30 years old. Concrete septic tanks over 25-30 years old may be nearing the end of their lifespan. Over time, the structural integrity of the tank may be compromised, and internal components such as baffles could erode, reducing their effectiveness.
Structural Integrity and Contamination Risk
Identify cracks on the tank’s exterior surface or access points, indicating potential structural issues. Cracks on the tank’s exterior surface or access points are red flags signalling potential structural problems. These issues can compromise the tank’s structural integrity and lead to soil contamination. Damaged or improperly sealed access points can allow untreated wastewater to escape, posing a risk to groundwater and the surrounding environment. Regular inspections are crucial to catch these issues early and prevent environmental harm.
Water Intrusion Monitoring
Regularly monitor for signs of groundwater or surface water intrusion into your septic tank. Keep an eye for signs such as increased water levels in the tank, deteriorating effluent quality (e.g., increased cloudiness or presence of suspended solids), or surface water ponding. Intrusion of groundwater or surface water can disrupt the proper functioning of the septic system. Regular monitoring and timely intervention is essential for maintaining the overall health and functionality of your septic tank system.
If you notice any of the above signs you should immediately have your septic system professionally inspected. Qualified drain technicians or environmental health officers can measure sludge levels using probes, assess structural soundness, and evaluate the soakaway or any other components to determine if replacement is advisable or if repairs could suffice in the short term before a later full upgrade.
Factors Influencing Replacement Needs
Damage and age aren’t the only factors that can influence the need to replace a septic tank. Exploring these auxiliary factors unveils a holistic perspective on the diverse elements influencing the potential replacement needs of septic tanks. These auxiliary factors are:
- Increased Household Size: A growing family contributes to a higher volume of wastewater, accelerating the accumulation of solids in the septic tank.
- Elevated Water Usage: Changes in water use patterns, such as increase in laundry or extended showers, can overload the septic system, resulting in more frequent pumping requirements.
- Garbage Disposal Usage: The use of a garbage disposal unit introduces additional organic matter into the septic tank, increasing the load of solids and necessitating more regular pumping.
- Undersized Tank: If the septic tank was originally installed for a smaller household and hasn’t been upgraded to accommodate the increased load, it may require more frequent pumping.
Additionally, the material from which the tank is constructed is a crucial determinant of lifespan. Concrete tanks generally have a longer durability compared to tanks made from metal or fibreglass. So if your household has increased in size or water use has risen since the tank was first installed, you’ll likely need to get it pumped more often and your tank may have a shorter-than-expected lifespan.
OMDI’s Septic Tank Replacement Journey
If your septic tank has undergone a professional assessment, revealing signs of deterioration in structural integrity due to factors like age and material wear, OMDI is here to guide you through the replacement process.
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what you can expect when you choose OMDI for your septic tank replacement:
Site Evaluation by OMDI Experts
OMDI initiates the process with a thorough assessment of your existing tank and the area. Our experts measure both sludge and scum levels, providing a comprehensive understanding of your tank’s condition.
Obtaining Necessary Permits
OMDI takes care of the paperwork. We ensure that all required permits for installing a new septic tank are obtained before any work begins. Once approvals are secured, we proceed to the next phase of the process.
Collaborative Tank Selection
OMDI involves you in the decision-making process. Based on your household’s wastewater volumes, we help you choose an appropriately sized tank. We recommend modern materials such as concrete or polymer, known for their durability, over traditional materials like steel, wood, or bricks.
Excavation & Expert Installation by OMDI:
The hands-on phase begins with the excavation and installation led by OMDI experts. The contents of the old tank are professionally pumped out and disposed of in an environmentally sound manner. A carefully measured hole is excavated to accommodate the new tank, ensuring precise dimensions. The new tank is expertly lowered into place, with inlet/outlet piping seamlessly connected to your home plumbing system. Finally, the tank hole is backfilled, and the surface is graded, completing the installation with precision and efficiency.
System Startup & Inspection
OMDI ensures a smooth transition by filling your new tank with water to test for leaks from joints or openings. Local officials often conduct a final inspection before the tank is covered.
OMDI’s septic tank replacement process prioritises careful evaluation, proper permit applications, and expert installation. Recognising the potential environmental impact, we handle the entire replacement with a commitment to professionalism and environmental responsibility. Choose OMDI for a seamless and efficient septic tank replacement journey.
Cost and Budgeting for Septic Tank Replacement
Unfortunately it’s impossible to put a fixed number on a replacement because the price depends on multiple factors such as the amount of work needed, what type of parts need replacing, and what type of tank you select.
Nationally, the average prices for a full replacement ranges from £3,000 – £6,500 but can depend on other factors such as location, site conditions, tank size, and excavation difficulties.
Installing a new septic tank represents a significant upfront cost, but over the long run it can save you a whole lot more. You can engage multiple professionals and get quotes on the project before committing to find a company that fits your budget. Remember, a properly fitted septic tank is an investment. A properly fitted and maintained septic tank can last decades before needing a replacement.
Post-Replacement Care and Maintenance
Our comprehensive services include expert septic tank servicing and maintenance provided by a septic tank specialist. We ensure the prolonged and efficient operation of your system while averting potential costly issues.
In instances of septic tank damage, our team will conduct a thorough assessment to ascertain the necessary repairs or evaluate the need for a new tank installation.
Our extensive experience in handling assessments and installations will help get your system operational at the earliest convenience.
Given proper care, your newly installed septic tank can last for at least 20-30 years. Here’s what OMDI recommends you adhere to:
Regular Inspection and Pumping: Schedule annual inspections and adhere to a pumping schedule, typically every 3-5 years, to prevent the accumulation of solids.
Water Conservation: Use water efficiently and stagger loads such as laundry and dishwashing to avoid overwhelming the system.
Limit Fats and Grease: Avoid using garbage disposals and limit the introduction of fats and grease into drains. This will reduce the risk of clogs and system strain.
Avoid Caustic Drain Openers: While it’s fairly common, using caustic drain openers can potentially damage your septic tank and its components.
Effluent Filter Maintenance: Regularly maintain the effluent filter to prevent the carry over of solids and ensure the smooth operation of the system.
Detailed Record-Keeping: You should keep a detailed record of maintenance and servicing activities, it’ll be useful for ongoing care and troubleshooting if anything ever happens or you decide to switch companies in the future.
Follow Service Provider’s Recommendations: Different tanks have specific care recommendations. These are provided by your service provider upon installation and you should always defer to their advice in your maintenance routine.
By following these best practices, you can prolong the sustained functionality and longevity of your septic tank, minimising the need for extensive repairs and maximising its efficiency over the years.
Replacing a septic tank is undoubtedly a major home improvement project demanding careful planning and budgeting. However, by working closely with our qualified professionals homeowners can ensure a smooth tank replacement process that meets all regulations.
Discover the OMDI difference when it comes to septic tank services. As a dedicated family-run business, we are unwaveringly committed to delivering excellence in every job we undertake.
Here’s why choosing OMDI sets you apart:
Personalised Service: No Outsourcing; Just Our Team
We never outsource work to contractors. When you choose OMDI, you’ll only ever deal directly with a knowledgeable member of our team.
Collaborative Approach: Your Needs, Our Priority
From initial consultation to completion of the installation, we work closely with you to understand your exact requirements. We tailor our services, providing you with the most efficient septic tank design for your property.
End-to-End Solutions: Comprehensive Expertise
OMDI aims to be your partner for the long term. Our comprehensive experience and a diverse range of high-quality, bespoke drainage solutions enable us to offer a full turnkey solution for both domestic and commercial properties. Whether it’s design, installation, or ongoing maintenance, we’ve got you covered.
We take pride in designing for the specific needs of each client – whether that involves tank replace, pipe upgrades, drainage restoration, or just regular maintenance. Contact us today for your free quote.
FAQs Section
Here are some common questions we get from homeowners.
How will I know if my tank needs replacing?
Signs like backups/clogs, excessive pumping needs, leakage, or groundwater intrusion indicate replacement is needed. Have a professional evaluate your tank if you see any issues.
Can I install a tank myself?
In the UK, installing a septic tank is subject to regulations and requires compliance with building codes and environmental standards. Generally, homeowners are not allowed to install their own septic tanks without obtaining the necessary approvals and adhering to the legal requirements.
What are signs my tank was installed incorrectly?
Improper installation will be evident with signs like odours, pooling water, and slow draining fixtures. We talk about it under the sub-title ‘Assessing When a Replacement Is Needed’.
Can I upgrade my tank to a larger size?
Yes! Choose a tank size calibrated precisely to your household’s wastewater volumes when you replace your septic tank. Oversizing is preferred to handle future load increases.
How disruptive is the install process?
The excavation and installation process takes 1-3 days typically. Work crews will tunnel below lawns/driveways, so temporary access limitations should be expected around your septic site.
