Septic Servicing & Maintenance

How to Protect Your Septic System Year-Round

An average septic system lasts between 15 and 40 years. Its lifespan depends on a variety of factors, with one of the most important being how well it is maintained. In order to keep your septic system running at its optimal level, it needs inspections, maintenance, and repairs over its lifetime.

Keep your septic system healthy by:

• Scheduling regular inspections and servicing – The overall condition of your septic system should be inspected annually. At Canadian Sanitation, our experts conduct an on-site analysis to identify potential issues, which will prevent the need to replace the entire system in the future and extend your septic system’s lifespan.
• Never flush or drain non-biodegradable items objects – This includes diapers, sanitary napkins or tampons, condoms, wipes (even the ones that are labelled “flushable”), cigarette butts, harsh chemicals, paper towels, and more. As a rule of thumb, if it can’t degrade naturally, it should not go into your septic tank. Be sure to inform your guests of the unique needs of your septic system.
• Freezing in winter – When the wastewater is restricted and moving slowly through the drain field, it will freeze in the winter, creating a solid block of ice that cannot be melted. When this happens, no water will enter the field and the septic tank will back up. It is very common for the field to once again accept some water over summer, then freeze again every winter. Once this starts, it only gets worse, never better on its own.
• Servicing even the smallest issues – When it comes to your septic system, it’s best not to ignore issues. Even ones that are seemingly small can be a sign of a potential problem that, if ignored, can cause significant damage. Identifying and repairing issues early can save you a lot of money and stress in the long run.

Keep in mind that a climate like Ontario’s can bring many septic issues, including freezing in the winter and flooding in the spring. Anytime is a good time to schedule a septic system service when you need it. It’s possible to reduce your risk of an emergency repair or a much bigger problem when you get your septic system serviced regularly.

Why you should only trust your septic system to a professional

• Expertise and experience – Septic system experts have the necessary knowledge, training and experience to properly diagnose, identify, and troubleshoot your septic system. Our technicians here at Canadian Sanitation are full-service septic systems technicians meaning they handle everything from maintenance to septic tank pumping to repairs or replacements.
• Compliance with Simcoe County regulations – Septic systems in Simcoe County are regulated by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing. A septic system expert will understand these regulations and ensure your system remains compliant and safe, potentially helping you avoid fines and other legal issues.
• Health and Safety – Septic tanks are complex systems that can potentially be hazardous to your health and the environment. The bacteria, microorganisms, and sewage that are inside a septic system need to be handled with care and caution as they pose health risks. Professionals have access to proper training and equipment to handle these hazards and minimize risks.
• Protect the longevity of your system – Regular maintenance by certified technicians can significantly prolong the life of your septic system and septic tank. By complying with regular maintenance, it can help reduce the cost of big repairs and save you money in the long run.
• Increase your home value – A well-looked after and maintained system can actually increase your home’s value if you ever plan on selling. On the other hand, a poorly maintained, neglected septic system can actually negatively affect your property’s value and can even hinder the sale of a home. This highlights the importance of ensuring your septic system has routine care by a professional.

Keep your septic system healthy by:

• Scheduling regular inspections and servicing – Your septic system needs to be serviced at minimum every two years but this can change depending on several factors including the size of your septic tank and the number of people in your household. At Canadian Sanitation, our experts conduct on-site inspections to identify potential problems. This can help prevent costly and expensive repairs or full system replacements.
• Never flush or drain non-biodegradable items – It’s imperative not to treat your septic system like a garbage can. Never flush anything other items or objects down the drain other than human waste or toilet paper. This includes paper towels, sanitary napkins, diapers, any kind of “wipe” (this includes those labelled “flushable” as well!), chemicals, and more. A good rule of thumb to use is: if it can’t degrade naturally, it shouldn’t go into your septic tank.
• Be prepared for winter weather – One common and prevalent problem that arises during the winter and spring seasons is the freezing and thawing of your septic system. In winter or freezing temperatures, if your septic tank is uninsulated, there is a higher chance of it freezing, preventing water from entering the drainfield. This will cause recurring issues with water backing up throughout the year. It is important to have your septic system inspected to help prevent this issue, as once it starts, it will only worsen as time goes by.
• Be proactive about even the smallest things – When it comes to your septic system, it’s best to be proactive in your treatments. Even seemingly minuscule things can be the onset of larger issues and, when neglected can worsen into expensive damage. Identifying and repairing issues early can save you a significant amount of money in the long run.
• It’s important to keep in mind that Ontario’s climate can impact and cause many septic issues. This includes things like freezing in winter, thawing and potential flooding in spring, and dealing with the occasional flooding from rain. This is why Canadian Sanitation is available year-round 24/7 to help with any septic system services when you need it.