A sewage treatment plant is responsible for removing contaminants from wastewater and ensuring it is fully cleaned before being released back into the environment. Without effective sewage treatment solutions, animals could become ill or die, beaches, dunes, and salt marshes would become unusable for both humans and wildlife, and diseases would quickly spread through contaminated water — making it unsafe to drink or use.
Believe it or not, such systems don’t require much upkeep. You only need to empty them once or twice a year, and if maintained correctly, they can easily last up to 20 years. However, misuse or poor maintenance can significantly reduce their lifespan — and result in costly repairs or replacements.
Which begs the question…
What can you do to maximise the lifespan of your sewage treatment plant?
To prolong the life of your system, it’s crucial to pay attention to what you’re putting down your sink, toilet, and drain. As a general rule, you should only flush human waste and toilet paper, and pour liquids like tea, coffee (without the grounds), or water down the sink.
None of the following items should ever end up down the drain:
- Baby wipes
- Cotton wool
- Food waste
- Grease, fats, and oils
- Kitchen towel
- Sanitary products
Another excellent way to ensure your sewage treatment plant lasts as long as possible is to be mindful when cleaning. Try taking a ‘less is more’ approach — cleaning products such as washing powders and detergents can sometimes overload the system. Softer water types usually require lower concentrations than hard water, so always check the recommended dosage for your area.
To truly maximise your system’s performance, arrange regular professional maintenance. One of our specialists can inspect your sewage treatment plant, identify potential issues early, and help prevent future problems.
Maintaining your sewage treatment plant
If you have any further questions about maintaining your sewage treatment plant, please call the Cotterill Civils team on 0121 351 3230.
Alternatively, fill out our enquiry form: