FAQs

(Frequently Asked Questions)

Septic Tank Guide

  • A septic tank is an underground, watertight container made of concrete, fiberglass, or plastic. It’s part of a home’s wastewater treatment system, used when you’re not connected to a municipal sewer. The tank collects wastewater from toilets, sinks, and drains, allowing solids to settle at the bottom and oils/grease to float to the top.
  • Wastewater flows into the tank.
  • Solids settle at the bottom (sludge), and oils/grease
    float (scum).
  • Naturally occurring bacteria help break down some solids.
  • The partially treated liquid (effluent) flows out into a drain field, where soil further filters and cleans it.
  • Pump it regularly (don’t wait until it backs up).
  • Watch what goes down the drain: avoid flushing wipes, sanitary products, grease, oils, or chemicals.
  • Conserve water: spreading out laundry and fixing leaks helps prevent overload.
  • Protect the drain field: don’t park vehicles or plant deep-rooted trees over it.
  • Healthywa.wa.gov recommends every 4 years for a 4-person household

Warning signs include:

  • Slow drains or toilets backing up.
  • Gurgling sounds in pipes.
  • Sewage smells near drains or outside.
  • Wet spots or pooling water over the drain field.
  • Lush, unusually green grass above the tank/drain field
    (sign of leaks).

Septic Tank Maintenance Checklist

  • Pump septic tank every 3–5 years*
  • Avoid flushing wipes, sanitary items, grease, oils, or chemicals.
  • Spread out laundry and fix any leaking taps or toilets.
  • Keep heavy vehicles and deep-rooted trees off the drain field.
  • Watch for warning signs: slow drains, odors, wet spots, or unusually green grass.

Grease Trap Guide

  • A grease trap (or grease interceptor) is a device that captures fats, oils, and grease (FOG) from wastewater before it flows into the sewer system.
  • Wastewater flows into the tank.
  • Solids settle at the bottom (sludge), and oils/grease
    float (scum).
  • Prevent clogs and costly plumbing repairs
  • Reduce foul odors in your kitchen
  • Protect the sewer system and environment
  • Meet local health and safety regulations
  • The partially treated liquid (effluent) flows out into a drain field, where soil further filters and cleans it.
  • Pump it regularly (don’t wait until it backs up).
  • Scrape food scraps into the bin before washing
  • Never pour oils or fats directly down the sink
  • Use sink strainers to catch food particles
  • Clean the trap regularly to avoid buildup
  • Conserve water: spreading out laundry and fixing leaks helps prevent overload.
  • Protect the drain field: don’t park vehicles or plant deep rooted trees over it.
  • Refer to your Water Corp Trade Permit or
  • Commercial kitchens: every 1–3 months
    (depending on usage)
  • Small under-sink traps: every 1–2 weeks
  • General rule: clean when 25% full
  • Follow local regulations for exact requirements.
sandrgroper grease trap

CONTACT US

Protect Your Property & Environment with Expert Waste Management

For reliable, eco-friendly liquid and hazardous waste solutions across South West and Great Southern WA. Contact us today for safe, compliant disposal backed by purpose-built equipment.

  • Head Office: 1 Warrego Road, Picton East WA 6229
  • Busselton Branch: 2 Trumper Drive, Busselton WA 6280
  • Cowaramup Branch: 7 Friesian St, Cowaramup WA 6284
  • 0403 487 894
  • info@sandgropercontracting.com.au