Septic Tank vs Waste Tank: FAQs & Expert Advice from Tardis Hire

Whether you manage a rural property, construction site or event venue, efficient waste management is vital. At Tardis Hire, we’re proud to be one of the UK’s leading specialists in wet waste services, providing septic tank emptying and waste tank hire nationwide.

To help you understand the differences between septic and waste tanks – and how we can support you – we’ve answered the most frequently asked questions below.

What is a Septic Tank?

A septic tank is an underground wastewater treatment system typically used in rural or off-grid areas where there’s no mains sewer connection. These tanks safely store and process waste from toilets and drains through natural bacterial breakdown.

Domestic tanks are buried with only an access port above ground, while larger septic systems may serve rural hotels, industrial sites or commercial premises.

At Tardis Hire, we provide septic tank emptying services as often as you need, ensuring your system runs smoothly and compliantly.

Learn more about our septic tank emptying services.

What is a Waste Holding Tank?

A waste holding tank is designed to store (not process) liquid waste until it’s collected and removed by a licensed carrier. Unlike a septic tank, a waste tank does not use bacteria or allow liquids to drain away, it simply contains waste safely until emptied.

These tanks are commonly used on construction projects, welfare cabins, portable toilets, and event sites. Regular monitoring and emptying are essential to avoid overfilling and ensure site hygiene.

At Tardis Hire, we supply and manage a complete range of waste tanks for hire, including:

• Standard and custom waste tank rental

• Tank fabrication for specialist use

• Hazardous waste disposal and collection

Explore more about our waste tank hire services.

What is the difference between septic tanks and waste tanks?

Septic Tank

• Septic Tanks will require emptying less frequent (can vary to once every six months).
• Septic Tank pumping is often done once a year (this is to remove solids that build up in the system).

Waste Tank

• Waste tanks are often emptied on a weekly basis.
• A Waste tank is emptied by pumping the waste into our tanker removing all content

How Often Should My Tank Be Emptied?

• Septic Tanks: Usually once every 6–12 months, depending on usage and tank size.

• Waste Tanks: Often weekly, or more frequently for high-traffic sites.

Regular servicing helps prevent blockages, odours, and costly repairs, ensuring your site remains safe and compliant.

Where Can I Get My Septic Tank Emptied in the UK?

Tardis Hire operates one of the UK’s largest fleets of wet waste and vacuum tankers, offering fast, affordable, and reliable septic tank emptying services across the country.

We handle everything from small domestic tanks to large commercial systems, minimising disruption and ensuring responsible disposal.

Book your septic tank emptying service today.

Where Can I Hire Waste Tanks in the UK?

We’re trusted by construction firms, event organisers, and facilities managers nationwide for waste tank hire and maintenance.

Our team handles installation, regular emptying, and collection, with a range of capacities to suit your project. Whether you need short-term hire for a site or long-term support for ongoing operations, Tardis can provide a complete, cost-effective solution.

Get a FREE quote for waste tank hire.

Why Choose Tardis Hire?

✔ Nationwide coverage and rapid response times
✔ Fully licensed waste carriers and environmental specialists
✔ Flexible hire terms for short or long-term use
✔ Competitive pricing with expert support
✔ Over 30 years of trusted service in the UK waste industry

At Tardis Hire, we make waste management simple, safe, compliant, and cost-effective.

Get in Touch

Whether you need septic tank emptying or waste tank hire, our expert team is here to help.

📞 Call 0800 731 0589 or contact us online to arrange your service today.