At Tuffnell Plumbing Drainage & Gas, we provide reliable wastewater system servicing to keep your system compliant, efficient, and trouble-free. From routine checks and filter cleans to identifying early signs of failure, our team ensures your septic or treatment system runs the way it should—all year round.
Wastewater systems need regular servicing to stay compliant, prevent failures, and protect your property from costly damage. Sludge build-up, blocked filters, or pump faults can cause overflows, odours, and environmental issues if not addressed on time. Scheduled servicing ensures everything works as it should—and keeps your system within council requirements.
If you have a septic tank, aerated treatment unit, or advanced on-site wastewater system, routine servicing is essential. Missed servicing can lead to expensive repairs, non-compliance notices, and unsanitary conditions around your property. That’s why it’s critical to have your system inspected and maintained by trained professionals.
Tuffnell Plumbing Drainage & Gas provides expert servicing for all types of wastewater systems. We check every component, clean out buildup, and ensure your system is working efficiently and safely. Here’s what we do during a typical service:
A wastewater system that isn’t properly maintained can lead to health risks, system failure, and costly repairs. If you’re noticing any of the signs below, it’s time to book a professional service to prevent bigger problems.
Foul Smells Around the Tank or Drain Field
If you notice strong sewage smells near your tank, drain field, or vents, it’s a clear sign something’s wrong. These odours usually mean waste isn’t breaking down or draining properly. It often indicates a full tank, blocked filter, or buildup that needs attention.
Slow Draining Toilets, Sinks, or Showers
When water drains slowly across multiple fixtures, the system may be overloaded or backing up. This can happen when the tank is nearing capacity or solids are clogging the outlet. If drains that were once fast are now sluggish, drain maintenance servicing is likely overdue.
System Alarms or Alerts
Many modern systems have built-in alarms to warn you when something’s wrong. If your panel lights up or a buzzer goes off, it could mean a pump fault, high water level, or blocked filter. Any alarm should be treated as a sign to schedule servicing right away.
Wet Spots or Pooling Water in the Yard
If you’re seeing unexplained puddles or soggy areas near the drain field, there’s likely an overflow or leak in the system. These wet patches can mean the soil is no longer absorbing wastewater properly. It’s a strong sign the system needs immediate inspection.
If your wastewater system is showing signs like slow drainage, foul smells, or surface pooling, it may not be functioning as it should. Skipping regular servicing or relying only on pumping can lead to system overload, poor treatment, and health or environmental risks.
At Tuffnell Plumbing Drainage & Gas, we provide professional wastewater system servicing to keep your system running safely, efficiently, and in line with council requirements. Whether you manage a septic tank, aerated treatment unit, or advanced onsite system, we inspect, clean, and maintain all components—so you can avoid costly breakdowns and stay ahead of potential failures.
Without proper maintenance, your wastewater system can become a serious health and environmental risk—leading to blocked filters, system overload, and costly repairs. Regular servicing keeps liquid waste moving efficiently, protects your property, and ensures your system treats household wastewater safely.
At Tuffnell Plumbing Drainage & Gas, we offer professional wastewater system servicing to protect your health, your property, and your long-term investment. Whether you manage a septic tank, aerated treatment unit, or another onsite system, we’ll keep it running efficiently year-round.
If you’re setting up a new system, we also provide expert septic tank installation to ensure everything is done right from the start.
We take a preventative, detail-focused approach to wastewater system servicing to keep your system running efficiently and compliant—while helping you avoid costly problems. Whether you have a septic tank, aerated system, or advanced treatment unit, our team provides reliable servicing that protects your health, property, and the environment.
Tuffnell Plumbing Drainage & Gas is your trusted partner for reliable, council-compliant wastewater system servicing. We help homeowners, farms, and commercial properties keep their systems running safely, efficiently, and within regulations.
Delays in servicing can lead to system failure and health risks. Book with Tuffnell Plumbing Drainage & Gas to keep your system working safely and efficiently.
The cost to service a wastewater system in New Zealand typically ranges from $250 to $600+GST, depending on the type of system, size of the property, and condition of the unit. Systems that require more extensive cleaning or repairs may incur additional charges.
The price usually includes inspection, filter checks, sludge levels, and system performance review. We provide clear pricing before starting any work, so there are no surprises. Regular servicing helps you avoid costly repairs and maintain system performance.
Most wastewater system servicing jobs are completed in 1 to 2 hours. If your system hasn’t been maintained regularly, or if issues like blockages or pump faults are found, the visit may take longer. We aim to complete drain unblocking and all servicing efficiently while ensuring nothing
is missed.
Our team checks all components of the system, including the pump, filters, alarms, and discharge areas. You’ll receive a summary of the work and any follow-up recommendations if needed.
A typical service includes checking pump operation, cleaning filters, inspecting tanks and soakage areas, testing alarms, and checking for leaks or system damage. We also monitor effluent levels and ensure the system is functioning within compliance limits.
If required, we’ll recommend septic tank pumping or further drain maintenance services to keep your system working safely. You’ll receive a full report outlining the condition of the system and any urgent issues. Our focus is on helping you maintain optimal performance and environmental safety.
No special preparation is required for most sites. Please ensure our team has clear access to tanks, control panels, or pump chambers. If your system is located in a secured or fenced area, we may ask you to unlock access beforehand.
For properties with multiple access points, our technician will guide you through what’s needed. We bring all equipment and manage the process with minimal disruption to your property.
Yes. Our servicing is carried out by qualified and licensed technicians who follow local council guidelines and New Zealand’s environmental regulations. We provide certified documentation for every completed service, which is often required for council inspections or compliance reports.
All work is backed by a workmanship guarantee, and we use industry-standard practices to ensure public and environmental safety. Whether it’s for a residential property or a rural site, we ensure your system is fully compliant and operating safely.
Providing trusted plumbing, drainage, and gasfitting solutions across the Nelson and Tasman regions for over 110 years.
Our team of licensed professionals is committed to fast, reliable service backed by industry expertise and local knowledge. Whether you need emergency plumbing, hot water repairs, or expert drainage solutions, we’re here to help — whenever you need us.
