Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signs that my septic tanks needs emptying?
Smelling or wet areas around the tank and drainage field, overflowing drains, or toilets and sinks that are slow to drain.
How often should my septic tank be emptied?
For an average family of four we recommend your septic tank be serviced every 3 - 4 years, and at least every three years for a larger family.
The frequency is also dependant on what goes into the system, how many people use it, the capacity of the tanks, and whether or not you recycle greywater.
How long does it take to empty the septic tank?
Providing everything is straightforward, about 45 mins.
How close do you need to get to the septic tank?
The closer the better. Our trucks routinely carry about 50m of hose, if the distance is greater than this then we will need to know so we can bring extra hose.
My property is well landscaped. Do your trucks leave a mess behind?
Our fleet of trucks are modern and well maintained. They do not drip oil on driveways and our team makes every effort possible to protect your property while undertaking any work.
The last company to cleaned my septic tank only half emptied it as thier truck was too small. Will you fully empty my tank?
Yes! Our fleet of trucks range in size from 8,500L capacity to 10,500L capacity. That means we have a truck suitable for every job.
Will you send a reminder when my tank needs to be cleaned again?
Yes, we maintain a comprehensive database of all our customers, and we will send you a reminder when your tank is due to be serviced.
Do you use the same equipment for cleaning water tanks as you do for septic tanks?
No! The hose system for cleaning water tanks is completely separate and with our vacuum loading technique there is absolutely no chance of any cross contamination.
What can I do to maintain my septic system and allow it to function effectively?
There are several "do's and don'ts" when it comes to maintaining your septic system. For more information read our articles How a septic tank system works and Maintaining your septic tank.
Do you clean plastic water tanks?
No, unfortunatly we do not service plastic water tanks.
What areas do you service?
We cover Greater Auckland and surrounding areas, from Puhoi and South Kaipara Heads to Drury.
Septic Tank Cleaning
If you own a septic system, it is important that it be properly maintained. Septic tanks should be cleaned on a regular basis to allow proper drainage and to prevent costly destruction of your septic trenches.
Grease Trap Cleaning
Proper cleaning and maintaining of your grease trap is essential to help prevent problem situations such as odours, backups, failed inspection, excessive pumping, and overall unsafe sanitary conditions.
Concrete Water Tanks
If you rely on a rain water collection system for your household water, it is essential to have your Water Tanks cleaned out on a regular basis. This will help keep your Drinking Water free of contaminants and sludge.
Grey Water & Sullage
Burnetts Tank Services are able to safetly dispose of all non-hazadous liquid waste. This includes Grey Water, Cesspits, Drilling Mud, Concrete Slurry Wash, Pond Cleaning, Portable Toilet Waste, Oily Waters and Holding Tanks.