Maintaining a septic system is essential for optimal performance, long lifespan, and meeting local council requirements. Septic systems in New Zealand now include modern components like pumps and air blowers, which improve treatment quality, benefiting both the environment and public health. Unlike older gravity systems, newer systems are designed to meet stringent wastewater standards, making regular maintenance critical for both homeowners and the environment.

Why Septic System Maintenance is Essential
Modern septic systems are more advanced than older styles, incorporating pumps, air blowers, and other technology to enhance wastewater treatment. This shift results from advancements in environmental standards and treatment technology, which enable more effective treatment and disposal of waste. Regular maintenance is vital to ensure these systems perform at their best, especially as councils in New Zealand increasingly require compliant and eco-friendly systems.
Regular Maintenance Schedule for Septic Systems
Just as cars need regular servicing to avoid breakdowns, septic systems require periodic maintenance to prevent costly repairs. Ignoring scheduled servicing impacts system reliability and longevity and repair is more costly than prevention.
Maintenance intervals depend on factors like system type, manufacturer recommendations, and council requirements.
Aerated Systems
Systems like the ABS Range should be serviced every 6 months.
Septic Tanks
Primary treatment systems like the B52 Septic system need servicing every 12 months.
Check your consent wording or contact your system supplier if you are unsure of the servicing requirements for your system.
Pump Outs vs. Regular Servicing
Servicing and pump outs are different things. A service keeps your system running as it should whereas a pump out removes accumulated solids from your system. Pump outs are typically required every 3-5 years but this can be longer depending on how much use the system gets and your lifestyle and cooking habits. Your service technician will normally notify you when a pump out is required.
Septic System Costs in NZ
In addition to ongoing maintenance, it’s helpful to understand the broader costs associated with septic systems in New Zealand. While initial septic system costs in NZ vary depending on the type and size of the system, maintenance is an ongoing expense that protects this investment. Service technicians can provide pricing based on the specific needs of your system, though unexpected repairs or part replacements may incur extra charges.
While costs vary based on system type and location, regular servicing offers benefits like compliance with council standards, longer system life, and performance feedback. For context, households on town sewer systems pay significant rates yearly for similar upkeep, often offsetting private maintenance costs.
Best Practices for Septic System Care
How you use your septic system directly affects its performance and reliability. Our Owners Manual has some great advice on this topic but here are some essential tips for system care:
Avoid flushing inappropriate items
Items like sanitary products and wet wipes clog the system and are challenging to remove.
Choose cleaning products carefully
Anti-bacterial cleaners can kill the beneficial bacteria essential for processing wastewater.
Control water usage
Excess water can overload the system. Spread out laundry loads throughout the week rather than concentrating them on weekends.
By following these best practices, homeowners can improve their system’s reliability and reduce the risk of expensive repairs.
Preventing Repairs Through Effective Maintenance
Proper maintenance at the recommended intervals helps prevent common issues that lead to costly repairs. Technicians conduct checks and adjustments to optimise system settings, which can enhance wastewater processing and reduce odours. Here are a few key maintenance actions:
Filter Cleaning:Â
Regular cleaning of all system filters, including the outlet filter, prevents backups and reduces pump strain, prolonging pump life. Pumps aren’t cheap so the longer you can make yours last the better for your bank balance.
Field Flushing:Â
Particularly important for systems especially with driplines, this process removes biofilm buildup, preventing blockages and ensuring even distribution of the wastewater.
Regular maintenance is key to keeping septic systems in New Zealand compliant, efficient, and cost-effective. By following recommended servicing schedules, adhering to best practices, and understanding the associated costs, homeowners can make informed choices to preserve the health and functionality of their septic systems.
Austin Bluewater has a team of trained service technicians available to service our systems in the Canterbury area, we also stock a range of replacement parts should anything go wrong. For other areas, we can usually recommend a good service agent or speak to your installer about this service. If you need advice or support with your project, feel free to contact our experienced team.
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