DIY Septic Tank Troubleshooting Tips for Homeowners

Maintaining your septic tank can save you time, money, and stress. While some issues may require professional help, many common problems can be resolved with a bit of know-how and some basic tools. Here's how to spot and fix common septic tank issues before they become bigger problems.

Common Signs Your Septic Tank Needs Attention

Some problems are easier to troubleshoot than others. Regular inspections or a maintenance contract can help catch issues early, but if you notice any of the following, it’s time to investigate:

• Alarm going off

• Drains backing up

• Unpleasant odours

  
  

Tip: If your alarm is sounding, check the control panel. For example, systems like the ABS2000 have lights that indicate what’s wrong. This information can help your service technician troubleshoot faster or even help over the phone.

DIY Fixes for Common Septic Tank Problems

Prevention is often the best cure; follow the advice in your owners’ manual and also any advice your service agent or supplier offers. Remember everything that goes down the drain ends up in the tank, so avoiding problem cleaning products and ‘non-flushables’ will go a long way in avoiding trouble.

1. Blocked Drains

If your drains are blocked:

• Check the tank level – If it’s normal, the issue may be in the house drains.

• Inspect the rodding access – Found near the inlet, it can often be cleared with a broom handle.

• Still blocked? – Examine gully traps and call a drainage contractor if needed.

• Tank full? –

  • Check that the power is connected and the pump is running.

  • Inspect the outlet filter or field if the pump is on.

  • If the pump isn’t running, it may be an electrical fault or a failed pump—call a professional.

    
    

Always clean any tools used and avoid direct contact with wastewater.

2. Odours Around the Tank

Persistent smells are usually a sign of

• Harsh chemicals – These can kill the beneficial bacteria in your tank.

• Overloading – Check for leaky plumbing or gully traps that allow rainwater in.

  
  

It can be a case of trial and error to identify what the problem product that’s killing the beneficial bacteria is, but there is some great advice in our Owners' Manual to help with this process.

3. Septic Alarm Going Off

Alarms indicate a serious issue that needs immediate attention. Check the control panel display for specific faults and refer to the troubleshooting pages 16–17 of our Owners' Manual for system-specific troubleshooting.

Call your service technician if the fault cannot be identified or resolved and minimise water use immediately.

When to Call a Professional

Some jobs should always be left to the experts—for your safety and the long-term performance of your septic system.

Do not attempt plumbing or electrical work yourself; call a qualified tradesperson if this is required. We also recommend replacement pumps and components be installed by suitably qualified and experienced people.

Avoid any DIY work that you are not competent with; there are health and safety risks when dealing with wastewater, electrical and pressure pipes. Always put your own safety first.

Ponding should be inspected and resolved by a professional; avoid contact with ponded effluent and minimise water usage until this is resolved.

If in doubt, phone your service agent or supplier for advice. They should be able to advise you on the severity of the issue and let you know what actions to take in the interim before the issue can be resolved.   If you need advice or support with your septic system, feel free to contact our experienced team.