How long does a septic tank soakaway last?
A septic tank is a popular way to dispose of waste when you aren’t connected to a sewer system. To make this method more efficient, a soakaway is often built to deal with the wastewater.
A soakaway, combined with a septic tank, is an efficient way to manage waste, but as with any system they need to be well maintained. In fact, a soakaway has limits and can only be used under certain conditions. At OMDI, we’re well practised in designing and building septic tanks and constructing soakaways to accompany them.
Here’s our guide to how septic tanks and soakaways work:
How do septic tanks work?
Septic tanks are constructed away from a home or building, usually in a garden. It uses bacteria to break down waste and to separate solids and liquids. The wastewater is then slowly ejected into the surrounding ground using an efficient drainage system. This is where a soakaway comes into the design.
What is a soakaway?
A soakaway in simple terms is a hole in the ground filled with rocks. It will be set away from the septic tank, and wastewater is then released into it.That wastewater will diffuse through the rocks and slowly escape into the surrounding ground.
In more complicated terms, a soakaway is a drainage system that allows the wastewater from the septic tank to be disposed of effectively. It is connected to a septic tank using pipes.
They work well in areas where it would be difficult for the water to drain off directly into the ground. The soakaway provides a slow method of diffusion, which stops the pooling and puddling of wastewater and helps to prevent flooding.
How long does a soakaway last?
Septic tanks need regular maintenance to keep them running efficiently. Maintenance includes emptying a septic tank of the sludge that builds up so the wastewater disposal system, including the soakaway, can still function.
Septic tanks need to be emptied and serviced every 12 months. However, they should also be serviced when they start to smell because this can be the first sign of a problem.
Soakaways also need to be serviced and maintained, again every 12 months alongside the septic tank. If the septic tank has problems, you’ll notice this in the drainage field.
The lifespan of a soakaway is connected to the regular maintenance of the septic tank it accompanies. It’s impossible to say exactly how long a soakaway will last before sludge and waste products hinder the efficient draining of wastewater. But the better the level of servicing, the longer it’s going to work. At OMDI we know exactly how to set up a drainage system that lasts for a long time, and we can help you to service and maintain a soakaway alongside a septic tank for the best results.
Get your free quote today
If you’re interested in constructing a septic tank for your home or business, then OMDI is here to satisfy your needs. Contact the experts at OMDI today to find out more about planning your septic tank and soakaway, and to receive a free, no-obligation quote.
