Before You Get Started

1. Note that Excavation Dimensions refer to the minimum sizes required for the installation of your septic tank. If the inlet pipe from the building is not in place when excavating, add approximately 8 in. (20 cm) to the "overall height" measurement for total depth of the excavation from finished grade.
2. Your local building department can tell you what size of tank to install and the configuration recommended for a secondary system.
3. When selecting a system, remember to think to the future. If you feel your needs may expand, sizing your system appropriately today will eliminate a major upgrading expense in the future.

Uncovering the Mysteries

Although they're located well beneath our feet, septic systems are not as mysterious as many people think. Today's modern septic systems are an efficient, safe and environmentally-friendly means of treating household sewage and wastewater.

Since septic systems treat sewage on site, traditionally they have been key in rural areas and in remote locations such as cottages and other recreational properties. In fact, in many new-concept suburban neighbourhoods throughout North America, effluent sewers--which are really a network of septic tanks--are the preferred method of choice for cost, efficiency and environmental reasons.

Septic systems are not difficult to maintain. Potential problems with septic systems can result from incorrect installation, poor maintenance or household misuse. But those who choose quality components, have their systems professionally installed and practice some preventative maintenance, find their septic systems to be effective, efficient and trouble-free for many years.

A Safe, Natural Process

A septic system works using natural processes. Billions of naturally occurring microscopic organisms work efficiently to break down household waste. These bacteria maintain a healthy septic system.

There are several types of bacteria--some that work in the septic tank, and others that work outside the tank. The bacteria in the tank do the heavy work and do not need oxygen. The septic tank provides the ideal environment by holding everything for a length of time to allow bacterial action to work, generally a minimum of three days. As a result, the tank must be sized accordingly. The bacteria that do the secondary treatment need oxygen to work efficiently. These bacteria are found in the weeping bed or other alternative systems. Since these organisms are key to making any septic systemwork, we build our systems accordingly.