Coronavirus and Septic Tanks

Householders with well-maintained septic tanks should not be concerned about Coronavirus (COVID-19) causing additional dangers to health.

In trying to answer customers’ queries about potential dangers from sewage waste in septic tanks it is clear that minimal public information is available. We have, however been able to locate useful information from US health authorities.

coronavirus
Coronavirus outbreak and coronaviruses influenza background as dangerous flu strain cases as a pandemic medical health risk concept with disease cells as a 3D render

Environmental Protection Agency

While decentralised wastewater treatment units (i.e. septic tanks) do not disinfect the way bleach does, the Environmental Protection Agency expects a properly managed septic system to treat COVID-19 the same way it safely manages other viruses often found in wastewater.  Generally, as the effluent from septic tanks percolates through the soil to groundwater, viruses and other pathogenic microorganisms are removed. 

Maintaining an Effective System

The important thing is to maintain optimum waste digestion. Continuing monthly Muck Munchers treatment programmes will ensure both effective digestion and the highest quality discharges to your soakaway, providing the best conditions for the destruction of harmful bacteria and viruses.

Should you find that your use of harsh bleaches is increasing, you may need to double-up Muck Munchers treatments in the coming few months, although generally this should not necessary. The use of Eco Bleach, which is based upon hydrogen peroxide, rather than chlorine, for wiping surfaces and Eco Toilet in the loo, are both specially formulated to provide effective sanitisation as well as to positively impact the septic digestion system.