Septic Tank Query

[Topper]

Hello, we are looking at purchasing a small two bedroomed cottage with a septic tank. Survey has been completed, and the age and condition of the septic tank was flagged up, along with a possible blockage somewhere between the house and tank. We’ve commissioned a survey, but in the meantime, I had a look at it myself. It was emptied around three to four months ago as it was smelling. We have never lived in a house with a septic tank before, so basing my limited knowledge on what I’ve gathered from the internet. My question is shouldn’t the two H pipes in the photo be half submerged? My understanding is one is an inlet and the other an outlet, but they and the bricks do not look like they been submerged in sometime. If there is a blockage that’s a lot of waste that’s going somewhere. Any thoughts would be welcome.

 

[sgking]

In an old rental i lived at some years ago, the blockage backed up and was pretty obvious as an inspection chamber overflowed. Some enthusiastic rodding sorted it. If pipework is actually broken it is possible to find that the surface above the break (if just grass or earth) is more wet and boggy than the rest of the surrounding area. A dig down and repair is necessary. No big deal. Hopefully your survey will locate any issue.

Im not in the knowledge of the tank or its operation though, just experience of failing pipework that has been pretty obvious and needed quick action.

 

[Topper]

I'm hoping it's broken pipe work too, grass and bushes around it so guess there's areas for the water to go. Thanks for the reply.

 

[a twig]

The pipes obviously won’t be submerged if it has been emptied but yes generally they are under the surface when in use.

When ours has been emptied there is a delightful “splosh” noise for the first couple of weeks until the levels rise again

Personally I’d consider the fact the bricks are so orange as a sign that they have been submerged, if they were exposed to air they would be unlikely to be that clean / bright.

Usually there is an inspection pit somewhere between the house and the tank, chuck a bucket of water in that and see what happens

 

[Topper]

The pipes obviously won’t be submerged if it has been emptied but yes generally they are under the surface when in use.

When ours has been emptied there is a delightful “splosh” noise for the first couple of weeks until the levels rise again

Personally I’d consider the fact the bricks are so orange as a sign that they have been submerged, if they were exposed to air they would be unlikely to be that clean / bright.

Usually there is an inspection pit somewhere between the house and the tank, chuck a bucket of water in that and see what happens

Thanks for confirming that the pipes should be under the surface when in use. Looking forward to the “splosh” when we move in!

Makes sense regarding the bricks too. There is a inspection pit by the front door, I’ll have a look when next at the property.