Getting the Best From Your Wastewater System

Your wastewater treatment system works hard every day to safely and effectively manage your household wastewater. With the right care, it will continue running smoothly for many years. Here are some simple but important tips to keep your system healthy and avoid costly problems.

Regular Servicing Matters

  • Book your system in for scheduled servicing to keep everything in top condition.

  • Regular checks prevent small issues from becoming big, expensive repairs.

  • Each service includes inspection, cleaning, so you know exactly how your system is performing.

What Not To Flush or Pour

Every wastewater system depends on a biological process to treat your household waste.

  • Vermiculture systems rely on worms.

  • Aerated systems and septic tanks rely on bacteria.

What you send down the drain directly affects these ecosystems—and therefore the quality of effluent discharged onto your property. Think of it like a car: the better the fuel and oil, the better the performance.

Avoid:

  • Wipes (even “flushable” ones)

  • Feminine hygiene products

  • Nappies, cotton buds, dental floss

  • Fats, oils, and grease (they clog and damage pumps)

  • Harsh chemicals and bleaches (they upset the system’s balance)

A little care goes a long way in protecting your system, saving you money, and keeping the environment safe.

Use Household Products Wisely

  • Opt for biodegradable, eco-friendly, septic-safe cleaners where possible.

  • Avoid pouring large amounts of disinfectant or antibacterial products down the drain—they can kill the good bacteria your system needs to work properly.

  • Spread laundry loads throughout the week to prevent overwhelming the system.

Protect the Drainage Area

  • Keep vehicles, heavy equipment, and large structures off your disposal field.

  • Don’t plant trees with invasive roots near the system—they can block or damage pipes.

  • Direct stormwater away from the disposal area to prevent flooding and overloading.

Cleaning Your Filter

Most (but not all) wastewater systems are fitted with a disc filter, which helps protect your pumps and disposal field. This filter benefits from regular cleaning and is included as part of your scheduled service.

If you’re hands-on and would like to help keep your system in top condition—much like checking your tyre pressure between car services—you can choose to clean the filter yourself every 3–4 months.

How to Clean Your Filter

  1. Turn off the power to the unit.

  2. Put on protective gloves.

  3. Remove the black/grey filter casing—inside you’ll find a red disc filter.

  4. Take out the disc body from the casing.

  5. Clean thoroughly using a hose, bucket of water, or water blaster. A light scrub may help loosen any buildup.

  6. Wipe and clean the O-ring.

  7. Reassemble the filter unit.

  8. Turn the power back on.

Why This Matters

Regular cleaning of your outlet filter helps:

  • Reduce wear and tear on your pumps

  • Prevent blockages in your disposal field

  • Prolong the overall life of your wastewater system

Even a small amount of maintenance between services makes a big difference to performance and longevity.

Stay Informed

Frustrated in the past because no one explained how your system works? You’re not alone. That’s why communication is my priority. At each service, I’ll explain what’s happening, answer your questions, and give you practical advice tailored to your system.

A well-maintained system means fewer breakdowns, lower costs, and a healthier environment. If you’d like to book a service or have a question about your system, get in touch today.