Leaking Septics

Septic Tanks – Maintenance/Inspection/Cleaning

● Have your septic tank pumped out once every 2 – 5 years, depending on how many    people live in your home. Properly maintained septic systems help protect our    environment. Faulty or inadequate systems leak and contribute harmful bacteria to both    the lake and your well water and can lead to raw sewage backing up into your home.
● Adding chemicals or commercially sold additives is NOT necessary in order for your    septic tank to work properly.
● Use liquid dishwashing and liquid laundry detergent, instead of powder.
● Powered detergents can harden over time in your pipes and cause clogging.
● Have your septic system or holding tank inspected, if it is 15 years or older.
● If you own a holding tank, ensure that it is pumped out when necessary.

Early warning signs of leakage or problems you can watch for include:

● Toilets, showers and sinks taking longer to drain than usual
● Sewage odors becoming noticeable (run unused faucets once a month)
● This adds water into the U pipe (odour trap), thus preventing smell
● Gray or black liquids surfacing on your lawn, above your tank

The damage done by faulty septic systems is especially harmful to kettle lakes.
One of the key reasons this damage is so hazardous is that the flushing rate of kettle lakes (the rate at which a lake cleanses itself) is very low. What goes in – stays in.

Please note: If you have a septic problem or you think your neighbour does.
Call the York Region Health Unit to arrange for an inspection at 905-895-4511.

*This information is courtesy of Pride and Preston Lake