Septic Systems

On proper soil where houses are spaced well apart Septic Systems are an excellent method of treating household waste and can operate reliably for years. Septic systems however can fail. When this occurs there are often concerns with environmental issues and public health.

Three basic components -- They include the septic tank(s), distribution system/box, and, leaching bed (conventional, raised or filtered). The septic tank treats the waste by letting solids settle to the bottom while scum forms on the top. Ultimately this partly treated fluid then flows out through the distribution system/box and out to the perforated pipes in the leaching bed. Here it is also filtered through the soil and treated further. Bacteria in the tank and soil do the greatest amount of the work.

Tell tale signs of distress -- This can include greener grass or extra plant growth over the leaching bed. Brown or burnt grass in dryer times may indicate the system is too full. The leaching bed area may be spongy. Slow drainage from plumbing fixtures may be a sign. Odours may be present after it has been raining and/or when water consumption is high. The presence of darker coloured water on the surface of the leaching bed or nearby. Sometimes this fluid will backup into the plumbing fixtures in the home. Sump pits in the house can often smell.

Ongoing maintenance is required -- Problems with Septic Systems can be very costly to repair so maintenance is key. Properly maintained Septic Systems have a life span of about 25 years. Septic Systems are meant to be organic. If something can't breakdown naturally and quickly don't let it enter the septic system.

Septic Systems should be inspected annually with tanks pumped out likely every 2 to 3 years. This work must be done by a licensed professional. Deadly gases, such as methane, are contained in the tanks. Summer and early fall are the best times to carry out this work. If this is not done then sludge building up in the tank can reach the leaching bed clogging up the system. This could in turn contaminate ground water supplies like wells. Worse yet repairs can involve soil excavation and replacement of the leaching bed.

Some Don'ts for Septic Systems -- Don't flush -- paint, thinners, solvents, nail polish, household cleaners, laundry bleaches. These can cause your organic septic system not to work and send solids out to the leaching bed. Worse yet it can contaminate the soil. Don't flush -- oils, grease, and fat. These can reduce the biological action of the system and bog down the leaching bed. Don't use a garburator. Don't let disposable diapers, condoms, tampons and the likes enter the system.

Preventive measures -- Restrict and conserve water usage. It takes time for the solids to break down so the more water you put through the system the less time there is for it to breakdown. Spread your water usage. For example, instead of doing four loads of washing at once do one or two loads a day. Divert water (lot grading, down spouts) such that the leaching bed is kept as dry as possible. Over the years the demand on a septic system can increase. Some people may add toilets, or showers, without upgrading their septic system. More laundry may be washed than originally anticipated for the system. So plan ahead for demand.

You are required by law to report any problems with your Septic System before carrying out any repairs. A Certificate of Approval from the local Health Unit must be obtained before construction, installation, extension, enlargement, or alteration, or any building connected to a sewer system. Final or "use" inspections are also required before occupancy.

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