24/7 Emergency Call Out
Contact: 01922 333 014

Home   >>   Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Alternative Cleansing service my area?

We cover the counties of West Midlands, Staffordshire, Telford & Wrekin, Shropshire, Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Warwickshire.

To see if your property is covered please see our coverage area map or call us on 01922 333 014.

What's the difference between a septic tank and a cesspool?

A septic tank usually consists of two components: a storage tank and a soakaway.

Wastewater is held in the tank for 24-48 hours to allow the solids, greases, oils and floating objects to separate out and to allow bacteria to begin breaking them down. The partially treated wastewater is then channelled to the soakaway.

Cesspools/pits are much simpler in construction. Typically a cesspool/pit is a sealed underground tank into which all wastewater and associated solids are stored until such a time as it is emptied by vacuum machine such as is fitted to Alternative Cleansing's fleet of vehicles.

How often do I need to have my septic tank emptied?

At Alternative Cleansing we recommend that your septic tank be emptied at least once a year.

BUT it will depend on a number of factors – not least the weather. In periods of unusually wet weather you may find that you need to arrange to have your tank emptied more frequently as your soakaway may not be able to cope with the ground water fast enough.

Regular emptying will greatly reduce the chance of any 'backing-up' which can lead to contaminated wastewater finding its way into the soakaway.

How often do I need to have my cesspool emptied?

To ensure safe and reliable service from your cesspool or cesspit we recommend careful and regular emptying regime.

The actual frequency of required emptying will depend on how many residents occupy your property, whether the property has showers or washing machines etc. and a range of other factors.

For advice on determining a suitable cesspool emptying schedule you can contact us for advice via email or by calling us on 01922 333 014.

Do I need to be home when you come to empty my septic tank or cesspool?

Generally not. Our engineers understand that property owners cannot always be on-site when they arrive to perform a service. Regardless of whether you can be home or not our engineers will arrive at the prearranged time and empty your cesspool, cesspit or septic tank as planned without causing any disruption to your routine or your property.

Does Alternative Cleaning undertake contract work?

Yes, we do.

Taking out a service contract with us means that you'll never have to worry about an overflowing system ever again. Using our dedicated job control system we will contact YOU when the time for another emptying is drawing near thus taking all of the planning and worrying from you. We will then arrange to visit at a time that is convenient for you whether you will be at your property or not.

Why is my sink/bath/shower taking much longer to drain than it used to?

Slow draining water is usually a sign of a bigger problem. If your wastewater drains to a cesspool, cesspit or septic tank this usually means that it's time you had your storage vessel emptied. If this is the case call us on 01922 333 014 to have it emptied.

If your wastewater drains into a traditional sewer it may mean that either a partial or a complete blockage has formed somewhere in the pipework.