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    Septic Tanks: Your questions answered

    22nd April 2022

    Septic Tanks are prone to a gradual build-up of deposits and a slowing down of the natural digesting action of the micro-organisms which normally break them down. Leading to malfunctioning of the septic tank causing, blockages, bad smells, overflowing and consequent boggy conditions in the overflow area around the septic tank.

     Can a septic tank cause the toilet not to flush? 

    A common sign of septic tank problems is a toilet that's slow to flush, overflowing or just won't flush at all, and a plunger can't fix the issue. The tank may be full or there could be a blockage in the pipes, so make sure you get this looked at sooner rather than later to avoid major issues and more costs.

    How often should I empty my septic tank? 

    Every septic tank varies and depends on the size and condition of the tank, some septic tanks require emptying every three to five years, some once every 12 months and some more or less frequently. It all depends on the size, the use and the condition of your tank. However, don't make the mistake of waiting until yours is full before doing so because the more sludge there is in your tank, the less efficiently it will work and the more chance there is of it becoming blocked.

    Should my septic tank smell? 

    A correctly maintained septic tank should never smell! If you notice a horrible drain smell in your house or out near the drainage field, this is a sign that there is a problem with the system, and you should have it checked out by a professional.

    Are you following the new guidelines?

    In 2020, The General Binding Rules changed to state that discharges from septic tanks directly to watercourses are prohibited. Therefore, you may need to update and upgrade the treatment system to comply with current rules.

    Cotswold Drainage offers a variety of services with Septic Tank problems, just some of our services include:

    • Installation
    • Removal
    • Conversion of a tank to a Treatment Plant
    • Reports and Investigations
    • Sorting out soakaway problems

    At Cotswold Drainage we offer finance options to help you with a new installation along with a 25-year guarantee and an annual service and maintenance programme to help you keep your tank in tip-top condition. So, if you need help with your septic tank call us on 01386 882324.


    Get in touch

    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.


    Really efficient, polite and really easy to do business with. Would highly recommend.
    - Will Garrity
    Always really helpful, good service, turn up when they say, personable on the phone and on site
    - Darren Ayley
    We've been using Cotswold Drainage for a few years. They are great to deal with and have always sorted issues out promptly with our septic tank. Shout out to Dave Streeter for looking after us so well!
    - Nigel Carter
    Great service - really hard ground and tough conditions and the guys came back the following Monday to complete the job at no extra charge. Thankyou
    - Tim Stretton
    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
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