septic tank power supply

rexel21

I have just moved into a property a few weeks ago and have noticed that the septic tank has a power supply. I know nothing about these. The fuse had been tripped or else switched off when the premises was empty. I dont know either way. Should this be left switched on permanently of not and what is its function.

Thanks

bbam

Id be turning it back on. If its a system that uses a pump to empty it will overfill quite quickly now that you are using the system.
Some just use a small steady compressed air supply to help break down the waste, again if it's left off the tank won't work properly and may back up overfill.

If your renting why not give the landlord a quick call.

freddyuk

The power supply is usually required to pump air through the unit or to turn a rotating set of discs which allow the bacteria to break down the waste (or possibly both). In addition it will pump out at intervals. If it has been off for some time the system may be "dead" and you may need to re start it with new bacteria but get an expert in to check. If the levels are high you may cause problems so it needs doing asap. I would switch it back on and check if it is working.
If you post the name/type of unit we can tell you what it needs.

rexel21

Just updating this. After much messing about got someone out to look at it. the airpump had gone and as such the the smell was getting back into the house via my internal vents that simple coulnd'nt cope with the potent gases.

He put a new air pump in (200 quid) fixed the water trap in it and now its going fine. only thing he didn't do was fit a timer to it. he ripped out the previous one and said that just leave it running 24/7 as constantly going on and off causes problems.( how hard will this be on electricity)

Also i forgot to ask him. Im assuming its a gravity one also so shouldn't have to worry about pump emptying the thing. I hope................

Otherwise thank god no more rotten smells in the house and me nearly about to tear the place down.

freddyuk

Could you advise the type of pump that was installed and the type it was replaced with? were they the same?
Why was it on a timer as these should run 24/7 I think.

rexel21

Sorry no can do. All i know is its one of these
http://www.eco-tanks.com/

pu in in 2008 so should have been signed off etc.

freddyuk

No receipt or guarantee with replacement pump? That sounds odd.

rexel21

didn't specify and make model of the pump. but did say it has a 12 month gaurantee!!!!!!

freddyuk

OK well I would suggest for your own protection you get a receipt otherwise the guarantee is worthless. I would also check if it is a manufacturers guarantee or installers guarantee. If it is manufacturers you may need to register the product to get any protection.
If it is a diaphragm pump (which it should be) these need maintenance to keep the filter clean and also it will need replacement diaphragms every 2-3 years possibly. These cost very little and are easy to replace. As the customer I would expect the installer to hand you an operating manual at the very least so you know what you have especially as he took €200 off you.

You may find this document useful as unfortunately the supplier/manufacturer offers no assistance on their website.
http://www.docstoc.com/docs/22901967/Eco-Tank-Wastewater-Treatment-System-for-Single-Dwellings
The specification states an 80watt pump and de sludging regularly as I doubt you have a secondary pump? Rather than wait for it to fail again it may be good to check it is set up to deal with your waste long term.