Advice Archives - Garden Master

As floods and floodwaters are becoming more prevalent up and down Australia’s east coast, the mosquitoes’ buzz is becoming even louder.

Slow-moving and stagnant water gives mozzies an ideal breeding ground, and flood-affected communities feel the bite.

As floodwaters recede and stagnant pools dry up with the warm weather, this influx of mosquitoes will look for new breeding grounds. It might not seem likely, but septic tanks are the ideal location for mosquito infestations to start and quickly gain in number.

Septic tanks are protected from the elements and full of stagnant nutrient-rich sewage and sewage effluent that can produce vast numbers of mosquitoes. Female mosquitos only need a way in, and it doesn’t have to be that big for her to crawl through.

The mosquito breeding associated with sewage treatment is usually associated with inadequate design, operation and maintenance or faulty effluent disposal or dispersal methods. Mosquitoes can get inside broken or unsealed septic tanks and lay eggs. Thousands of mosquitoes emerge daily from inadequately kept septic tanks.

These mosquitoes can spread viruses like Dengue fever, Ross River virus, Zika, Murray Valley encephalitis, Barmah Forest virus and Elephantiasis, which can cause serious illness.

NSW health authorities are warning residents to brace for a “high risk” of Japanese encephalitis (JEV) infections in the summer of 2022/23 following months of wet weather. Experts predict a mosquito boom when the weather warms up, with residents being urged to vaccinate against JEV. The potentially fatal virus can cause headaches, convulsions and reduced consciousness.

MOSQUITO SPECIES ASSOCIATED WITH SEWAGE

Culex quinquefasciatus: ‘The Brown House Mosquito’

This species usually breeds in organically polluted water near human communities. It is frequently found breeding in high numbers in unsealed septic tanks and primary sewage ponds. However, it is sometimes found in organically overloaded secondary sewage ponds. This is a very significant pest species wherever favourable breeding sites exist. The females rarely travel more than 2 km from their breeding sites.

Culex annulirostris: ‘The Common Banded Mosquito’

Culex annulirostris is one of the most common mosquitoes in Australia. The most prolific artificial breeding places are secondary sewage treatment, evaporation ponds, and sewage pond effluent. The larvae are most frequently found in calm, sheltered areas where vegetation offers protection from disruptive wave action and aquatic predators. The females of this species can disperse up to 10 kilometres from the breeding site. However, the highest concentrations are usually found within 3 – 4 km of significant breeding sites.

Anopheles annulipes s.l.: ‘The Common Australian Anopheline’

This species usually breeds in open, sunlit, temporary and permanent freshwater ground pools, streams or swamps. The females can disperse up to 2 km from their breeding places. It is not found in septic tanks and rarely in sewage treatment ponds. Still, it can frequently be found in sites of disposal of sewage effluent, mainly where the effluent flows into shallow, grassed areas.

A sudden swarm on your property means that the mosquitoes have found a healthy place to breed, and you’ll want to get to the bottom of it quickly.

On a positive note, mosquitoes and their health risks can be mitigated while planning your septic system. However, suppose your system is already in operation. In that case, you may need to inspect and repair your septic tank to keep mosquitoes out.

How to prevent mosquitoes from reproducing in your septic tank:

Check for cracks in septic tank lids and seal or replace them to ensure a tight fit.
Be sure that plastic covers are fastened and adequately secured, and sealed.
Repair cracks or gaps in the exterior walls of the septic tank using cement or expanding foam used for home insulation projects.
Cover vent or plumbing pipe openings using a mesh with holes smaller than a mosquito (fine mesh that is 1/16th of an inch). Mould the screen into a cylinder for vent pipes under or near trees so leaves and debris slide off.
Fill abandoned or unused septic tanks with dirt or gravel.

To prevent mosquitos from multiplying in your septic tank, you should inspect it regularly and repair any damage if discovered. We recommend you work with a licensed septic tank installer and check local regulations before repairing a septic tank on your own.

Garden Master provides environmentally friendly Septic Solutions for domestic and commercial properties across NSW, ACT and Victoria.

Garden Master offers nothing but the highest quality residential septic tanks, secondary treatment systems (STS), and commercial-grade wastewater treatment systems. We have septic treatment systems suitable for domestic homes and cabins through to commercial industries. We pride ourselves on customer service, meaning you won’t just get a one-size-fits-all approach with us but rather a tailored solution to suit your exact wastewater needs. With over 30 years of experience, you can rely on Garden Master to provide you with the best available wastewater treatment products and services.

If you’re unsure what septic system would suit your property, check out our article Septic Tank Buying Guide or simply get in touch for some friendly advice.

SOURCES:

https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/mosquito-borne-diseases

Tips & Advice

What Is Subsurface Irrigation?

10 May 2022 mark

When your house or property is not connected to a council/municipal sewer, on-site wastewater systems like Septic Tanks or Aerated Wastewater Treatment Systems are often installed to treat the sewage and blackwater generated.

The latter and most popular of the two options (Aerated Wastewater Treatment Systems or AWTS) receives all wastewater from the premises, including the kitchen, toilet, shower and laundry, and quietly and efficiently recycles all your household wastewater into clean, clear and odourless water suitable for irrigation on your garden and lawns via sub-surface irrigation.

Subsurface irrigation is the best method of disposal of the cleaned and disinfected wastewater for most local governing authorities. The considerable benefit of subsurface irrigation is that there is no contact with the treated effluent for humans, pets or livestock.

It works by the AWTS being connected to the sub-surface irrigation, allowing the secondary/aerated treated effluent to be dispersed via multiple polyethylene drip lines, covering a targeted area (often called a leach field). Subsurface irrigation evenly disperses the treated effluent underground (after disinfection by an Advanced Secondary Treatment System) straight to the biologically active layer of the soil. The soil consumes residual bacteria or organic matter, and vegetation such as grass will absorb the nutrients.

Sub-Surface Irrigation Being Installed:

The sub-surface poly drip lines are buried in a grid between 100mm – 150mm below the ground, where inserted emitters disperse the wastewater evenly through the irrigation network.

The constant dispersal of the water means there is no run-off or pooling on the top of the leach field, reducing human contact and contamination of waterways.

When considering sub-surface irrigation as part of your wastewater solution, you will need to consider your soil type, site conditions, size of the leach field and the intended application of the area. The grass of the leach field should be maintained short to allow good airflow and for the sunlight to dry excess dampness.

Planting on septic drain fields and around your septic system and leach field is not only permissible but advisable. Plants will prevent erosion and suck up some of the excess moisture from the drain field. At the very least, grow a Tall Fescue grass or Kentucky Bluegrass. Tall Fescue and Kentucky Bluegrass are often mixed and can handle high water levels.

Read our full article: What Plants Can You Plant Around A Septic System?

Large areas (over 250 to 300 linear metres of drip line) are usually split into equal-sized zones. The zones are controlled automatically through your AWTS system using a water indexing valve that spreads the treated wastewater to a different zone every time the pump operates.

The Dangers Of Poor Irrigation

A good irrigation system is necessary on any property.

Whether you’re building a new home or figuring out ways to save water and alleviate water damage, it’s important to know just how significant the impact of poor irrigation can be on your home. All homeowners should consider installing an excellent quality irrigation system.

Below are some of the ramifications of having poor irrigation:

Damage to the Surrounding Concrete and Footpaths

Uncontrolled water from poor irrigation can eventually gather underneath or on top of concrete, causing it to become both aesthetically and structurally damaged. Paths in your garden, driveways, and even footpaths surrounding your home are at risk if subjected to continuous water build-up.

Higher Risk of Erosion

Excess water in your garden can cause topsoil runoff into surrounding drains. Not only does this significantly impact the environment, but it also means the root system of your lawn and plants is more likely to sustain damage due to losing the nutrients and protection that topsoil gives them.

Wood Rot and Termites

Poor irrigation may result in rotting wood around your property or home. Termites absolutely love rotting, moist wood so if you’ve got irrigation leaks around wood, you need to think fast and resolve the problem before it causes major structural damage.

Increase in Pests

It’s not just termites that might invade your property if you have poor irrigation. There’s also the chance that you’ll have an increase in spiders and rodents on your property due to the increased moisture.

Dryness

Contrary to all of the above, if you have an irrigation system that isn’t leaking but is not releasing enough or any water, then you are basically running with no irrigation at all. This can leave your property dry, kill plants and trees in your garden, and damage your lawn.

Garden Master provides environmentally friendly Septic Solutions and Subsurface Irrigation services for domestic and commercial properties across NSW, ACT and Victoria.

Garden Master offers only the highest quality residential septic tanks, secondary treatment systems (STS), and commercial-grade wastewater treatment systems. We have septic treatment systems with subsurface irrigation suitable for domestic homes, cabins, and commercial industries. We pride ourselves on customer service, meaning you won’t just get a one-size-fits-all approach with us but rather a tailored solution to suit your exact wastewater needs. With over 30 years of experience, you can rely on Garden Master to provide the best wastewater treatment products and services.

If you’re unsure what septic system would suit your property, check out our article, Septic Tank Buying Guide or get in touch for some friendly advice.

Septic Tank Cleaning Products Dos & Don'ts

Tips & Advice

Septic System Do’s & Don’ts

14 December 2020 mark

How to Maintain Your Septic System: Dos, Don’ts & Why Chemical-Free Living Matters

Your septic system plays a vital, behind-the-scenes role in managing your household’s wastewater. Whether you’re on a rural property or in a semi-urban setting without access to a sewer system, keeping your septic tank healthy is crucial—not just for your home’s plumbing, but also for the surrounding environment.

However, many people unknowingly damage their septic systems by pouring harmful chemicals down the drain or ignoring simple maintenance routines. In this guide, we’ll explore the essential dos and don’ts for septic system care and explain why avoiding chemical cleaners is one of the smartest things you can do for your home and our planet.

Understanding How Septic Systems Work
Why Chemical-Free Living Supports Septic Health
Septic System Dos – Best Practices to Follow
Septic System Don’ts – Habits That Cause Harm
Recognising Signs of Septic System Trouble
Natural Alternatives for Cleaning & Maintenance
How Garden Master Can Help

Understanding How Septic Systems Work

A septic system is a self-contained, on-site wastewater treatment system. It processes everything that goes down your sinks, showers, toilets, and laundry. Once waste enters the septic tank, solids settle to the bottom, oils float to the top, and liquid wastewater flows out to a drainage field where it filters through the soil.

For the system to work properly, naturally occurring bacteria are essential—they break down waste and help prevent blockages and odours. Harsh chemicals and poor household practices can kill off these bacteria, causing the system to fail over time.

Why Chemical-Free Living Supports Septic Health

Most commercial cleaning products contain harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, phosphates, and synthetic surfactants. These substances are toxic to the beneficial bacteria your septic system relies on.

Common Chemicals That Damage Septic Systems:

Chlorine – Found in numerous cleaning products, used for pools and dumped into many water supplies, studies suggest that chlorine exposure is linked with an increased risk of heart disease, allergic reactions and miscarriages, as well as increased rates of bladder, colon and rectal cancers.
Ammonia – Found in all-purpose cleaners, antibacterial cleaners, window cleaners and furniture polish. Ammonia can irritate eyes and lungs, cause burns or rashes, and, if mixed with chlorine products, it can cause deadly chloramine gas; exposure to which could be fatal.
Pesticides & Fertilisers – Many common pesticides used for gardening are known carcinogens, meaning they cause Cancer.
Cationic & Anionic Solutions – Found in laundry detergent and washing liquid, if accidentally ingested, they can cause nausea, vomiting, shock, convulsions or, most severely, coma.

These are some of the most common; however, this list doesn’t even scratch the surface. If you must buy consumer brand cleaning products, look for natural products and read the label to ensure ALL products are natural and not harmful to you or the environment.

Instead, choose biodegradable, septic-safe cleaning products, and minimise using all chemicals where possible.

Septic System Dos – Best Practices to Follow

To keep your system running smoothly:

✅ Use septic-safe cleaners and detergents that are free from chlorine, bleach, and phosphates.

✅ Pump your tank regularly (usually every 3–5 years, depending on household size and usage).

✅ Fix leaking taps and toilets to avoid flooding the system.

✅ Spread out laundry loads and heavy water use across the week to prevent overload.

✅ Install water-efficient appliances and fittings to reduce water entering the system.

✅ Keep trees and shrubs away from the drain field to avoid root damage.

✅ Know your system’s layout and avoid driving or building over the septic tank or drain field.

Septic System Don’ts – Habits That Cause Harm

Bad habits can cause serious (and expensive) septic system issues. Avoid the following:

❌ Flushing anything other than human waste and toilet paper. Avoid wipes, tissues, tampons, nappies, floss, and paper towels.

❌ Pouring fats, oils or grease down the sink—they solidify and clog pipes.

❌ Using the toilet or sink as a bin for food scraps, chemicals, or paint.

❌ Running multiple appliances at once (e.g., shower, washing machine, and dishwasher) which can overload the system.

❌ Neglecting inspections and maintenance, especially if you notice slow drainage or odours.

❌ Using chemical drain cleaners – opt for a plunger or plumber’s snake instead.

Recognising Signs of Septic System Trouble

Early intervention can save you thousands in repairs. Be aware of:

Foul odours from drains, toilets, or near the tank or drain field.
Slow-draining sinks, showers, or toilets—a classic sign of a clog or overload.
Water pooling in your yard near the drain field—this may indicate overflow or failure.
Lush, bright green grass over your drainage field—it may be fertilised by leaking wastewater.
Gurgling sounds in your pipes or sewage backups.

If you notice any of these, contact a licensed septic service technician immediately.

Natural Alternatives for Cleaning & Maintenance

Want to clean your home safely and protect your septic system? The general rule should be, if you couldn’t safely eat it, don’t put it on your skin or your atmosphere. These chemicals cause significant damage over time to your body and to the environment, and flushing them into waterways kills plant life and harms animals, as well as you.

Just about everything can be cleaned with a few simple natural ingredients—mix these together, and you have an all-purpose cleaning solution.

Here are some simple swaps:

Vinegar and baking soda for cleaning drains and surfaces
Castile soap or eco-friendly dish soap for washing
Lemon juice and bicarb soda for freshening the kitchen
Hot water and a plunger instead of chemical drain cleaners
Borax or washing soda in place of bleach for whitening laundry

These options are not only septic-safe, but also better for your health and the environment.

safe products to use with a septic tank

How Garden Master Can Help

At Garden Master, we’re experts in environmentally responsible wastewater solutions. Our Aerated Wastewater Treatment Systems (AWTS), Advanced Secondary Treatment Systems (STS) and Greywater Recycling Systems are designed with sustainability and efficiency in mind. We support households across NSW, Victoria, ACT, and beyond in managing their waste safely and sustainably.

We also provide:

Professional installation and servicing
Ongoing maintenance plans
Guidance on safe water use
Expert advice on reducing chemical impact

📞 Contact us on 1800 632 582 or submit a request via our online contact page for a free quote and consultation.

✅ Final Tip

Your septic system is only as good as the habits of the people using it. By being chemical-conscious and following best practices, you’ll extend the life of your system, save money, and help protect Australia’s waterways and environment.

Tag: Advice

Mosquitoes Breeding In Septic System