Diagnosing a problem with a septic tank, or any sewage treatment system is the first step to fixing it. We recommend a professional is enlisted to inspect the tank with a scope to assess if there’s any actual damage to the system or if there’s just a block. Both can be detected with a scope, which is essentially just a camera on a flexible pole. If there’s no damage to the system then you probably have a block, and vice versa.
Unfortunately, if there is damage to the system then often you’ll need to purchase a new septic tank. When the structure of the septic tank is damaged or cracked the entire system is vulnerable to breaking further. The collapse of a septic tank could be catastrophic for human health and for the health of any nearby watercourses too. It may be worth upgrading to a sewage treatment system instead of a septic tank in this case.
How do you unclog a blocked septic tank?
- Try to ascertain what the blockage is – is it unmoving sludge/waste from the tank?
- Research the correct bacteria for septic tanks that you can put in to combat this – do NOT use chemicals as this can damage the septic tank to no end
- Add the recommended dose of treatment for bacteria
- Leave the treatment to work its magic for the time noted on the container – don’t tamper with or attempt to move the blockage at this time
- After this time inspect the blockage again – has it gone or has it moved?
- If the blockage has just moved then read up on if you can add another dose of bacteria treatment (it will say on the container) and add another lot of the recommended dose if you can
- Repeat this until the treatment has been effective or until you’re no longer able to add any more of the treatment
If you can’t add any more bacteria treatment after the first dose then consult a professional in the sewage treatment industry as they will be well equipped and well versed to move the blockage.
