The do’s and Don'ts of Using a Domestic Sewage Treatment Plant

Before diving into practicalities in this edition of the Tank R Us blog, it’s important to understand what a domestic sewage treatment plant actually does. Unlike a septic tank, which merely separates solids, a treatment plant actively processes wastewater using biological and mechanical means. The result is water that’s been treated to be clean enough for discharge into a watercourse or drainage field (in, of course, accordance with UK environmental regulations). However, the system relies on a fine balance, both in its biological ecosystem and its mechanical functioning. 

The Do’s: Good Habits for Maintaining Your Sewage Treatment Plant 

The successful operation of a domestic sewage treatment plant begins with consistent, sensible habits – things you do operationally to help to support the system’s biological and mechanical functions, reduce wear and tear and ensure compliance with environmental laws. 

Understanding: First and foremost, homeowners should take the time to understand how their particular system works. Each sewage treatment unit can differ (depending on the manufacturer and the design), so making sure you’re familiar with the instruction manual and operation guidelines is absolutely crucial. Knowledge of the system’s layout, components and performance expectations will enable you to spot issues early (and communicate effectively with service professionals if and when required). 

Servicing: One of the most important aspects of plant maintenance is regular servicing. Most manufacturers recommend servicing at least once a year - and in some cases, every six months. Servicing involves a qualified technician inspecting the mechanical elements, cleaning or replacing air filters and ensuring the bacterial colony within the tank is thriving. Regular servicing not only improves efficiency but can also prevent costly breakdowns. 

De-sludging: Another vital aspect to tank maintenance is the de-sludging process. Over time, solids will naturally accumulate at the bottom of the tank. If they’re not removed on a regular basis (usually once a year), the build-up can overwhelm the system and compromise the quality of treated water. Making sure that de-sludging is scheduled regularly is one of the simplest and most effective ways to keep your treatment plant working as it should. 

Cleaning products: Equally important is the choice of household cleaning products. Many mainstream cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can disrupt or kill the ‘good bacteria’ in your tank. Using the correct type of detergents and cleaning products (ie. biodegradable and phosphate-free) can help maintain the microbial balance inside the plant, which ensures that waste is processed efficiently. 

Water usage: Even your daily water usage habits can have an impact. Domestic sewage treatment plants work best when there is a consistent flow of wastewater. Overloading the system with sudden surges can cause turbulence in the chambers and affect the treatment process. Spacing out water usage at a consistent level throughout the day is a simple management step that can make a big difference. 

Drains: It’s also crucial to be mindful of what goes down your drains. Only human waste and toilet paper should be flushed. Despite being labelled as ‘flushable’, certain items do not actually break down in the system and can cause clogs or mechanical failures. These items include wet wipes, nappies, cotton wool and sanitary products.  

Location: Lastly, think about the location of your sewage treatment plant (and its surrounding area). If the treated water is discharged into a drainage field, you will need to protect the area from heavy vehicles and deep-rooted plants. Soil compaction or root infiltration can damage pipework, leading to poor drainage (or costly excavation work). Most systems rely on electricity for air pumps and control panels, so you should also ensure that electrical connections to the unit are weatherproof and checked regularly. 

The Don’ts: Common Sewage Treatment Plant Pitfalls to Avoid 

While good habits go a long way, it is equally important to avoid making certain common mistakes. Even if you’re well-intentioned, some behaviours can disrupt the functionality of your sewage treatment plant - or even damage it permanently. 

FOG: One of the most frequent issues comes from pouring fats, oils, and grease (aka FOG) down the kitchen sink. These substances actually solidify within the system and can coat pipes and moving parts. When this happens the treatment plant’s effectiveness is severely reduced. Unlike other types of organic waste, FOG is particularly hard for bacteria to break down. It’s best to collect it in a container and then dispose of it in the general waste. 

Antibacterials: Similarly, excessive use of antibacterial products can have a detrimental effect on your treatment plant. These cleaners are designed to kill the very bacteria your treatment plant depends on. Over time, using these products can destroy the bacterial culture needed to treat the sewage, which will leave the system ineffective. Using eco-friendly alternatives (in moderation) helps to protect this delicate balance. 

Water: Another critical mistake is allowing rainwater or surface run-off to enter the treatment plant, as these systems are not designed to handle storm water. Directing gutters or drainage into your treatment plant can lead to flooding and hydraulic overloading. This will essentially drown the biological processes that are treating the sewage. All surface water should be channelled away from the plant, via a separate drainage system. 

Alarms: Sewage treatment plant owners should also pay close attention to warning systems. Many modern plants are fitted with alarms which will alert you to things like pump failure or water level irregularities. Ignoring these alarms can lead to serious damage or overflows. If you hear a strange noise, see a flashing light or detect an unusual smell, you should take it seriously and call for a technician. 

Access: Being able to get to your treatment plant easily is very important. Access to your treatment plant should also be kept clear. It can be tempting to landscape over access points or to hide the tank with a structure or decorative cover – but engineers require easy access for servicing and de-sludging. Covers should be unobstructed and safe to remove, which will save time and prevent damage during inspections. 

Hazardous materials: Disposing of hazardous materials via your drains is another practice to avoid. Paints, solvents and pesticides (and expired medications) can all disrupt the sewage treatment process, as well as cause harm to the environment. These materials should be taken to appropriate waste disposal facilities instead. 

Time away: If you are intending to leave your property vacant for even a relatively short period (eg. for a holiday or seasonal closure) take steps to prepare your treatment plant. Bacteria need a regular supply of nutrients from wastewater to survive. If the system sits idle for weeks, bacterial colonies can weaken or die off, reducing treatment effectiveness when you return. In such cases, you should use approved bacterial boosters to support the system during downtime or consult a professional for advice and assistance. 

Why Sewage Treatment Plant Guidelines Matter 

The consequences of failing to follow these best practices can be quite serious. A domestic sewage treatment plant malfunction can mean untreated or partially treated sewage entering the environment, polluting natural watercourses and causing serious problems for wildlife. Odours, back-ups and system failures are also unpleasant to fix – as well as expensive. From a legal standpoint, the Environment Agency imposes strict rules on how treated wastewater must be discharged. Non-compliance, even if it is accidental, can result in significant fines or enforcement action.  

Sewage Treatment Plants at Tanks R Us 

If you're new to sewage treatment systems or if you’re looking to upgrade your existing set-up, Tanks R Us can offer invaluable support. As a trusted supplier of domestic and commercial sewage treatment plants, we provide a comprehensive range of products suitable for properties of all sizes and types. We also offer skilled engineers who can help with installation, routine servicing and emergency call-outs, whether you're installing a new system or maintaining an old one. 

A domestic sewage treatment plant is a sophisticated yet highly efficient system and, with the right care, can reliably serve you for decades. By understanding the system, adopting smart habits, and avoiding harmful behaviours, you can keep your sewage treatment plant running effectively, minimise environmental impact and save money in the long run. Following the do’s and avoiding the don’ts we’ve supplied here will not only keep your system in top shape but also ensure you remain on the right side of the law. 

Tanks R Us makes this even easier, offering everything from the initial domestic sewage tank product to system maintenance solutions. Contact us now to find out more.