The outlet filter is located on the outlet of the septic tank and is there to prevent the transfer of solid material into the secondary treatment system or irrigation system if you have a primary treatment system. This would create significant problems with not only the pumps but also clogging the secondary treatment or irrigation lines.
Depending on your habits, use of the system and if you have an infestation of “septic tank” moths the outlet filter might need to be cleaned out as often as once a month to maintain a free flow through the septic tank.
Here are a few steps to enable you to clean the filter yourself between routine scheduled maintenance by our maintenance team.
- Remove the 150mm cap on the outlet side of your septic tank.
- Either wear disposal gloves or ensure that you maintain good hygiene (thoroughly clean your hands after), turn the filter anti-clockwise and pull the filter up by the handle out of the casing.Hold the filter away from you and anyone else and use a hose to spray it down. It would be good if you can do this in a location that is not walked or played on by you, your family or pets (ie. back of the house, in the garden, digging a hole in the lawn etc.). Wash the filter until you see no more waste on it. Try not to spray near or towards people to prevent waste from landing on them.
- Once the filter is clean, insert it back into the casing, turn clockwise to lock in place, and replace the lid. Ensure that the white section of the filter is facing the outlet otherwise no water will exit the septic tank and cause a backlog.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask. Or, next time we complete your scheduled service we can show you how to do it. You will need to make an appointment so that we can arrange a suitable time to see you.