Council tests show that only 35% of sewage treatment systems actually produce treated effluent. Of the 65% that failed to treat effluent properly the average effluent quality was no better than a (filtered) septic tank. Septic (filtered) tanks cost $1,500, treatment systems cost $12-14,000. Do you know how to spot the dodgy systems? The following examples show what can happen if you take advice from a plumber or system agent.

To: Dave Miller – Environmental Engineer.

"Help. I'm in the Wairarapa and I had a sewage treatment system installed in late 2003. I've had no end of trouble with the electronic components, aerator burnt out within 3 months then again 6 months later and repaired a year later. The electronic device that manages the pump & aerator gave up. Now the pump has given up, the pump was replaced in January and April 06."

"I've got a problem with the irrigation field pooling (still pooling questionable installation) repaired several times. It's a nightmare!"

Effluent ponding in back yard.

"There are a wide range of issues partly with the plumber who installed the tank not giving me information, after numerous requests for servicing information and warrantees. I have serious concerns regarding the performance of the plant, the pump stops and starts in the excess of 40 times in a 30 minute period!"

"The aerator blows 24 hours - 7 days a week. I'm looking at taking the plumber to the small claims tribunal and I'm interested to know to how much would it cost to get an independent assessment/report on the plant - would it be worth a shot?"

Dave's comment: Regretfully, this complaint is only too common. In this case I took up the clients concerns with the manufacturer who agreed to upgrade the system to meet the clients needs, without the need to go to court or Disputes (small claims) Tribunal.

FAIR GO COMPLAINT AVOIDED

The internet service assisted an Auckland homeowner in a recent dispute over a failed effluent system. My involvement started when I received an email from an American environmental engineer who had come across her plea for help on a USA bulletin board.

As he was familiar with my website (which was recommended by the American Master Plumbers) he asked if I could assist. I contacted the woman and obtained details of her complaint.

She had untreated effluent flowing out onto the ground around the disposal area as a result of an incorrect design assessment. I suggested a course of action which empowered her to take on the company involved herself with a complaint to Fair Go as a last resort.

Armed with this strategy she went in to battle and emerged with a full sewage treatment system upgrade at no cost to herself. The new system met her needs and received a nice thank you letter from a very grateful homeowner.

These two stories are typical of homeowners being left in the lurch by unskilled or unscrupulous systems agents and/or their installing plumbers.

Plumbers generally do not receive any formal training (as part of their certification) on how to assess sewage system design and usually just act as salesmen for the system brand they are agents for, regardless of whether it is appropriate for your situation or needs.