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    Septic tanks: What not to do

    1st June 2022

    More than half a million homes in the UK have a septic tank, and most homes with private drainage have a septic tank into which wastewater from loos, showers, sinks, and washing machines is discharged. Making sure you know what not to do with a septic tank is important to avoid unnecessary damage and expenses.

    Check out our list of what not to use with a septic tank, this is not a complete list as there are many other things but a basic list of everyday items. So, here are a few things you should not put in your septic tank:

    • Bleach
    • Paint
    • Disinfectants
    • Garden pesticides
    • Medicines
    • Solvents like white spirit
    • Drain cleaning and unblocking liquids that contain caustic soda
    • Cigarette butts
    • Disposable diapers
    • Sanitary pads & tampons
    • Wipes
    • Pop-off toilet brush scrubbers
    • Rubbish
    • Condoms
    • Hair
    • Plasters
    • String
    • Coffee grounds
    • Paper towels
    • anti-bacterial soaps – biodegradable soaps only!
    • latex, plastic, or metallic objects
    • hard toilet paper – soft is better for the tank
    • Dead fish
    • Kitchen grease

    There are cleaning products that have been specially designed for use with septic tanks, so keep an eye out for these as they are better for your tank. If you are unsure of any issues with your septic tank, please don’t hesitate to contact us on 01386 882324.

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    Contact our friendly and professional team via form, phone or email for any drainage issues you may have.

    From blocked drains to septic tank repairs and replacements, we're here to help. We have over 25 years of experience and offer 24/7 emergency callouts.

    Very pleased with service provided by Cotswold Drainage, Luke did a great job. Would certainly recommend them, very efficient. Arrived on site when promised and solved the problem, can't ask for more than that.
    - Phil Timms
    I’d happily use Cotswold Drainage again - the engineer arrived and within a couple of minutes had not only identified the problem but cleared the blockage. He then went on to give everything a good hose down and then did a camera inspection to make sure there were no more issues further down the drain. Highly recommended.
    - James Coulter
    Very good service, got the the job done 👍
    - Philip Webb
    I was impressed not only by the speed and professionalism of the work done to install a new septic tank, but by the considerate friendliness of those who carried it out and of those conducting correspondence about the job.
    - Robin Gilbert
    Luke and his colleague were efficient, friendly and very professional. They arrived on time, kept me well informed and were just brilliant all round. I'd previously used a well known, national company and the contrast was remarkable. The previous company provided me with very little information, they refused to guarantee their work because a manhole was covered with a slab and once the blockage was cleared they left. Cotswold Drainage guaranteed their work and cleared the underlying problem, rather than the symptom. An all round excellent company to deal with.
    - L Lynass
    A great, straightforward service, thank you! Customer service is excellent - there was a problem with the date we originally booked, but it was quickly resolved by Richard, and he was very apologetic. The engineer who came out was Adrian. He was on time, called ahead of arrival as requested, and was very polite. Did a great job. Thanks guys!
    - Zoe - The Wild Oven
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