Can a Septic Company Clean a Cistern?

Septic companies do not clean a cistern. Cistern cleaning requires specialized procedures to ensure the water storage system remains sanitary and safe for use, especially if it supplies drinking water. A company that deals with cleaning cisterns has pumper trucks that only haul water. Septage companies haul septage and grease in their pumper trucks.

Understanding the Difference Between a Septic Tank and a Cistern

Although both systems are underground tanks, they serve very different purposes:

• Septic tanks collect and treat wastewater from the home.

• Cisterns store clean or treated water for household or irrigation use.

Because cisterns hold potable or non-potable water rather than waste, cleaning them requires different tools, disinfectants, and safety standards.

When to Clean a Cistern

A cistern should be cleaned and disinfected:

• At least once a year for potable water systems.

• After repairs or contamination events, such as flooding or debris entry.

• When sediment, algae, or odors are present.

• Before refilling after long periods of disuse.

How a Cistern Is Cleaned

If a septic company offers cistern cleaning, the process typically includes:

• Draining the tank completely.

• Removing sediment and debris using vacuum equipment or manual cleaning.

• Scrubbing interior surfaces to remove biofilm or buildup.

• Disinfecting the tank with an approved sanitizing solution, such as a chlorine rinse.

• Rinsing and refilling with clean water.

• Testing water quality if the cistern is used for drinking water.

Prior to hiring a company it is important to confirm that the company offers cistern cleaning as part of its services and to ensure the technicians are trained in potable water system maintenance if the cistern supplies drinking water. Be sure to ask about disinfection methods and whether post-cleaning water testing is included.

Always verify that the company follows proper sanitation procedures and local health guidelines. Regular cistern cleaning helps maintain water quality, prevent contamination, and extend the life of the storage system.