How to Avoid System Hazards

If you disturb the natural balance of what goes into your septic tank, or misuse or overwork your septic system, problems can arise. The following are a few pointers to help you avoid any future difficulties.

Selecting the Proper System

1. When a regular inspection identifies the need for upgrades to any aspect of your system.
2. When the installing of additional plumbing or bathrooms may put stress on your existing system. (If you will be adding additional plumbing it's smart to get a contractor to check out your existing system's capacity.)
3. If you are unsure about what upgrading may involve, talk to us. Our qualified professionals are happy to help.

What should not be put in a septic tank?

1. Avoid putting grease down the drain. Septic systems can be damaged by oils, grease and fat. Dispose of these with the garbage.
2. Chemicals such as paint, solvents, bleach or strong cleaning agents, should not be washed down the drain. They will hamper the growth of the natural bacteria your septic system needs to do a proper job.
3. Diapers or feminine hygiene products shouldn't be flushed into your septic system. Also be conservative about the amount of toilet paper used.
4. Avoid pouring septic tank cleaners or starters into your septic system. Some may destroy useful bacteria, while others may flush septic solids into the drainage field.

Conserve Water

The less you pour, drain or flush into your septic system, the better your system will perform. The more time your system has to work on each litre of waste, the more effectively each litre of waste water will be treated.

Permit Protocol

Septic systems are under the control of the Ontario Building Code and you must have a permit to install one. Your municipal building department will advise you as to what type of system you can install. In some cases, a septic system is not permitted at all. An alternative may be a holding tank.

Don't Overwork Your System

1. Think ahead about the size of the septic system you will ultimately need. Allow some extra capacity to meet possible future needs. Will you be adding a dishwasher, additional toilets, showers or a hot tub? The larger you plan your system, the more easily it will accommodate future needs without having to upgrade.
2. If you have a septic system at a cottage or seasonal property, remember that the tank can become dormant if it isn't used for a long period. For instance, after the winter months it's best to begin using your system gradually for a few weeks before hosting a large cottage gathering. Too much material flushed into a dormant system can cause untreated solid material to flow into the drainage field, possibly clogging it.

Smart Maintenance

The importance of maintaining your septic system can't be stressed enough. A failing system can be a health hazard to your family, especially if your water source becomes contaminated. Malfunctioning systems can pollute the environment and be costly to repair.

1. Install an effluent filter. It's a necessary safeguard since it will warn you if your system needs attention.
2. Have your septic tank inspected every three to five years. A licensed pumping contractor should inspect your septic system, pumping it out when required. Remember there are two pumpout hatches on your tank.
3. Have your system pumped out in summer or early fall if possible. This leaves time for your tank to refill and bacterial action to become reestablished before the winter.

Warning Signs

If you notice any of the problems below, act fast. A neglected system can present both health and environmental hazards.

1. Wet spots or grey or black liquids in your yard.
2. Unusually green or spongy grass over the septic system.
3. Slow drainage of toilets or drains, or liquids in drains backing up.
4. Gurgling sounds in your drain.
5. Sewage odors, especially after a rainfall.

Protect Your Septic System

1. Don't allow your septic system to freeze since bacteria need to be warm to work. Insulating the top of your tank with polystryrene can help keep it warm and work more efficiently in cold weather.
2. Do not drive cars, snowmobiles or heavy machinery over your septic bed. The tank and surrounding pipes can be damaged by excessive weight and packing the snow over the weeping bed allows frost to penetrate.
3. The drainage field around your system is also doing an important job. Don't plant near it because the deep root systems of many trees and shrubs can plug the system's pipes.
4. Ground water and runoff from roofs, patios and driveways should be directed away from the septic tank and weeping bed.

Who You Need To Call

1. The law requires you to report any septic system problems to your local Building Department before starting repairs.
2. Once you have been given approval by the Building Department, call a licensed contractor. Repair costs range greatly depending on the extent of the problem. Ask the contractor to come and inspect your system and provide a written estimate before proceeding with repairs.

Our Commitment To You

Brooklin Concrete is committed to the manufacture of quality septic tanks. As the largest manufacturer of concrete septic tanks and holding tanks in Canada, our reputation is built on the quality products we make.

All Brooklin septic tanks are manufactured to meet or exceed the Ontario Ministry of the Environment Regulations, Ontario Building Code Reg. 403/97 and CSA B66 for private sewage systems. Brooklin Concrete is a member of the Concrete Precasters Association of Ontario and The National Precast Concrete Association.