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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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    - Andrea Carter
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    - Mark F.
    Cotswold Drainage are a very professional and helpful company who give excellent service. They fitted and service our treatment unit, thank you.
    - andrew
    Having researched companies to install a sewage treatment plant for my house, I chose Cotswold Drainage. I have not been disappointed at any stage of the process. From the outset, communication has been exemplary, every person I met, in person or on the telephone, has been very polite, and took time to listen and answer our questions. The quality of the work done has been, to my untrained eye, of a very high standard. Disruption has been kept to a minimum and the area has been left very tidy, now waiting for grass seed to sprout! I had some further pipe work done separately from the septic tank installation, and again, it was a very straightforward process with minimal disruption. Well done Stuart and all at Cotswold Drainage. Many thanks.
    - David Sillince
    I am very pleased with the service provided by Cotswold drains . My problem was solved very quickly and expertly by Adrian . The problem was ROOTS ! They were in the main drain pipe underground. Located by means of a camera. I am in Cheltenham and will certainly recommend Cotswold drains to anyone with drain problems . Thank you Adrian
    - Mary Epke
    I think your technicians name was Luke. I hope I have remembered correctly. Excellent job, quietly spoken, polite and respectful. Clearly explained stuff and sorted the problem.
    - Kate Morl
    Cotswold Drainage were prompt in coming out to survey our sewage pipes and gave us a detailed report within 48 hours.
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