Helpful Hints:

Septic tanks should be pumped every 2 to 3 years and cottage septic tanks every 5 years
When purchasing a new home it is ideal to have a Visual Inspection done at the time of pumping
Use phosphate-free soaps and detergents
Use vinegar to clean the toilet, hydrogen peroxide as a bleach alternative, and use 1-ply toilet paper
Use low-flow shower heads and toilets
Don't direct excess water into your septic
Backwash water softener and sump pump discharge should all go into leaching pits
Keep the leaching bed area grassed and free of trees, vehicles, asphalt, crick, patio stones, automatic lawn sprinklers, swimming pools, and regular foot traffic

Understanding Your Home's Septic System is a booklet of information provided by the Ontario Ministry of Environment which contains information about how a septic system works and how to maintain the system. The booklet is available at www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/environment/facts/sep_smart.htm

Below is a diagram of a septic system. The septic has two compartments: one for solids where the inlet baffle is and the second compartment for liquids where the outlet baffle leads to the leaching bed. The first compartment holds heavy solids while the second compartment holds finer sediment. The effluent filter located in the outlet baffle prevents solids flowing into the leaching bed. The leaching bed will then siphon the liquid before it returns to the soil.

Download our Helpful Hints for additional information on maintaining your septic system.

Please visit our Risers & Filters page for information on septic risers and effluent filters.

Perth & District Portable Toilet Rentals

Perth & District Septic Service Ltd

Rideau Pumping Service