Why your septic system may need replacement
There are several reasons why you may need a septic system upgrade or to replace a septic system.
Age is the most common, as most tanks last between 20 and 40 years depending on maintenance and household use.
Damage, soil movement, or poor design can also shorten their life. In some cases, systems are replaced because they can no longer cope with the wastewater load or are starting to pollute local water supplies.
Modern wastewater solutions, such as an EnviroTas Advanced Secondary Treatment System (AWTS) offers better performance, safer disposal, and full compliance with Tasmanian regulations.
Major indicators that your septic tank is failing
If your system is showing any of the following signs, it may be time for a septic system replacement:
Bad odours near the tank or around the drainage area.
Gurgling noises coming from the plumbing.
Wet or spongy patches in the yard, even in dry weather.
Lush, bright green grass growing over the tank or drainfield.
Toilets, showers, and sinks draining more slowly than normal.
Unsure if your system is operating effectively?
If you are unsure about your septic system, EnviroTas can arrange an inspection. Our technicians provide wastewater services across Tasmania and will assess your system and advise on a replacement.
Steps for Replacing Your Septic Tank System
Step 1: Design
Good design is the foundation of a reliable system. Every new installation starts with an assessment and design phase that takes your property conditions into account.
A wastewater engineer will complete a comprehensive site assessment and prepare a design report. This includes a soil profile, classification of your wastewater, and calculation of property loadings.
The report sets out what type of wastewater treatment system is required and the size and method of disposal that will suit your property.
If you have a preferred site for your system, mention it early. EnviroTas and your engineer will ensure it meets legal requirements for positioning near dwellings, boundaries, and water sources.
STEP 2: Pre-Installation
Once the design report is complete, the next stage is preparation for installation.
If an AWTS such as the EnviroTas-As is specified by the Wastewater Engineer/Designer, the EnviroTas team will visit your site to confirm installation requirements and ensure the design is practical.
We’ll discuss installation timelines and any property-specific considerations.
Based on the assessment, we’ll prepare a detailed quote. We’ll also walk you through it step by step so you understand exactly what is included and can ask any questions.
Before installation, a plumbing permit must be approved by your local council. This application can be managed by you, by EnviroTas, or by your plumber. The cost varies by council.
Once approved, works must follow the permit requirements and wastewater approval Tasmania guidelines.
STEP 3: Site Works
The old tank and drainage field must be decommissioned.
Council will specify how this is done, which is usually by pumping out and crushing, burying in place, or full removal.
In some cases, the tank may be retained to provide an extra stage of primary treatment for the new system.
EnviroTas will install the new aerated wastewater treatment system and treated wastewater disposal area in line with your approved design.
All required documents will be completed and lodged with council so your system is recorded as compliant.
Once connected, an EnviroTas technician will commission the system and issue a commissioning certificate. This helps make sure that your new septic system replacement is up and running and signed off.
STEP 4: Servicing and Maintenance
Every residential wastewater treatment system in Tasmania must be serviced by a licensed technician.
EnviroTas provides ongoing wastewater services and water treatment system maintenance to keep your system operating efficiently.
The EnviroTas-AS is accredited for six-monthly servicing where irrigation disposal is below ground. This means servicing costs are among the lowest on the market. Most other systems require quarterly servicing, making the EnviroTas-AS a more economical choice over time.
The first service is completed at commissioning.
You’ll receive a User Manual Pack and Service Agreement from EnviroTas.
Ongoing servicing is scheduled according to regulations to keep your system reliable and compliant.
