What can I do to stop my septic tank from smelling?

Why does a septic tank smell?

Foul odour in a septic tank can be caused by a number of factors:

• Accumulation of sludge and debris clogging the system.
• Lack of active bacteria to break down waste.
• Poor ventilation preventing proper expulsion of gases.
• Leaks or cracks in the cover or pipes, allowing odours to escape.

The following are effective solutions to avoid these problems.

1. Carry out regular maintenance and emptying

One of the main causes of odours in a septic tank is the excessive accumulation of waste and sludge. To avoid this:

• Empty the septic tank every 1 to 3 years, depending on its capacity and use. Consult our septic tank emptying service.
• Hire professionals for safe and efficient emptying.
• Check sludge and scum levels regularly to avoid blockages.
• It complements the maintenance with a pipe unblocking and cleaning service, ensuring the proper flow of the system.

2. Use natural bacteria and enzymes

Anaerobic bacteria are responsible for decomposing the waste in the septic tank. If they are disturbed, decomposition is inefficient and bad odours are generated.

• Apply biological products containing natural bacteria and enzymes to improve waste degradation.
• Avoid using harsh chemicals such as bleach, ammonia or strong detergents, as they can kill beneficial bacteria.
• Consult official sources on the use of beneficial bacteria in septic tanks, such as the EPA – Environmental Protection Agency which provides technical information on septic systems.

3. Control what you dispose of in the septic tank

Misuse of the septic tank can lead to unpleasant odours and blockages.

You must not throw away:

• Wet wipes or non-biodegradable paper.
• Cooking oils and fats, as they create a layer that prevents the correct decomposition of waste.
• Drugs or harsh chemicals that affect the bacterial balance.

What you can do:

• Use biodegradable toilet paper that decomposes easily.
• Minimise the use of harsh chemicals and opt for environmentally friendly cleaners.
• Conduct regular inspections with a septic tank inspection and maintenance professional to detect potential problems before they become serious.

4. Ensure good ventilation

Septic tanks must be adequately ventilated to prevent the accumulation of gases such as hydrogen sulphide, which causes an unpleasant ‘rotten egg’ odour.

• Check that ventilation pipes are clear and properly installed.
• If the odour persists, install a carbon filter in the ventilation pipes to neutralise the gases.

5. Clean and check septic tank pipes

The pipes connecting the pit to the house can accumulate waste that can cause odours.

• Preventive cleaning with pressurised water to remove adhering residues.
• If there are serious blockages, consider a camera inspection to detect the cause of the problem without the need for building work.

6. Check the condition of the septic tank cover

An improperly closed or cracked lid can be the cause of the spread of odours.

• Check that the lid is tight and sealed.
• If the cap is leaking, repair or replace it as soon as possible.
• Consider installing airtight lids to improve odour isolation.

7. Install a pre-filtration system

A prefilter can help reduce the amount of solids that reach the septic tank, which improves its performance and reduces odour generation.

• Clean the pre-filter periodically to prevent clogging.
• Consult a specialist if you need to install an additional pre-filtration system.

Conclusion: Keeping the septic tank odour-free is possible with good maintenance.

By following these tips, you can prevent odours in the septic tank and ensure that it functions properly. The key is to regular emptying, use of natural bacteria, proper ventilation and avoidance of inappropriate waste.

If you need a professional septic tank emptying and maintenance service, at Limpiezas Domingo we offer quick and efficient solutions.

Contact us and forget about bad smells in your septic tank.