The septic tank conversion unit converts septic tanks to full sewage treatment systems

There are 2 main types of septic tank conversion units

1. 'ADD-ON' septic tank conversion units, which are installed after an existing septic tank, convert the septic tank into a sewage treatment plant. The septic tank can then discharge, legally, directly to a ditch, without the need for any permit. These must have the EN 12566 Certificate in order for compliance with Environment Agency General Binding Rules.
2. 'IN-TANK' septic tank conversion kits are sold to fit into an existing septic tank to 'convert' it to a sewage treatment plant. These do not have the mandatory EN 12566 Certificate required to qualify for an Exemption and need a Permit from the E.A. before installation occurs. In-tank retrofit kits can only be used if the operator first applies for and is granted an environmental permit.

The EN 12566 test runs for 38 weeks at an independent EN Test Centre. It monitors the performance of the plant under a variety of circumstances - normal use, underloading, overloading, etc. This test costs around £30,000 per plant and you cannot test 'in-tank' systems, as they are not consistent, i.e. septic tanks are different sizes, different shapes, etc. and so there is no EN Test for them as it would be pointless. The only way that you could obtain an EN12566 Certificate for one would be to dig up the septic tank and send it, complete with the 'in-tank' conversion to an EN Test Centre to be tested as a complete system. Unfortunately, this would cost you around £30,000.

The 'in-tank' conversion kits that are available are about the same price as add-on plants, but they require a Permit from the E.A. prior to Installation.

There are add-on plants that do have the EN 12566 Certificate, as they all have been tested using septic tank effluent, as well as raw sewage. They are:

• Septic tanks can then have a direct discharge to a ditch, after secondary treatment in the conversion unit
• Saves Thousands of pounds on the cost of a new drainfield installation
• Enables full sewage treatment even if you only have a small garden.
• Makes current septic tank to ditch discharges LEGAL
• NO restrictions on items flushed down the toilet.  The septic tank intercepts all tampons, panty liners, make-up remover pads, cotton buds, nappy liners, etc. which cause problems in many sewage treatment units.  This makes the septic tank conversion system very useful for Holiday Lets and Rental properties.
• Extremely low system running costs - either non-electric (FilterPod), Vortex 40 Watts/hr or 57 Watts/hr (BIOKUBE), equal to very small lightbulbs.
• Low maintenance costs. One service per year and emptying of the septic tank only
• Small footprint
• Converts septic tank effluent into very high quality final effluent
• Differing invert levels are accommodated

RESTRICTIONS of the Septic Tank Conversion Unit

• You MUST be CERTAIN that the existing septic tank is completely watertight. Older tanks and brick or concrete tanks are often porous, cracked, or have leaking seals
• NO rainwater must enter the foul drains
• The septic tank must be the correct size. Ring us for advice on 01759 369915