Changes to the emptying intervals for settling and holding tanks

The waste committee for the Kolmenkierto area has updated its waste management regulations. Changes have been made to the maximum permitted emptying intervals for septic and holding tanks.

Sludge tanks at permanent residential properties must still be emptied at least once a year. For holiday homes, the emptying interval has changed. Going forward, the sludge tank of a holiday home may be emptied at least once every three years, whereas previously the tank had to be emptied at least once a year.

“Although the waste management regulations allow a longer emptying interval for holiday homes, the resident must ensure that the wastewater system functions properly,” reminds waste management manager Martta Kantele.

A longer permitted emptying interval does not mean that a tank should always be emptied less often. In particular, septic tanks should be emptied frequently enough for the wastewater system to function as intended.

If a sludge tank is not emptied regularly, a thick, hardened layer can form on its surface. This can disturb the normal flow of water in the tank and cause problems with the operation of the wastewater system. The waste management authority also emphasizes the importance of regular emptying in a video published on the subject.

Ordering an emptying

If a residential property is not connected to the sewer network, wastewater is typically directed to a septic or holding tank. In the Kolmenkierto waste committee area, the resident orders the emptying of the sludge tank from a transport company of their choice. The sludge is transported to a wastewater treatment plant for processing.

Further information:
Martta Kantele, waste management manager, tel. 050 308 9345, martta.kantele@hameenlinna.fi

The Kolmenkierto waste committee is the waste management authority for the following municipalities: Hattula, Hausjärvi, Hyvinkää, Hämeenlinna, Janakkala, Järvenpää, Kerava, Loppi, Mäntsälä, Nurmijärvi, Riihimäki, Tuusula and Valkeakoski.