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Septic System Dos and Don'ts

The septic tank and field are the most economical and environmental wise way to treat and disperse sewage generated from residential homes. Onsite sewage systems are installed in approximately 25% to 30% of all homes in British Columbia. They are a simple, natural, and safe way to recharge the underground aquifers. The following is a few simple dos and don'ts regarding your onsite septic system.

Dos

Conserve water in your home. All water used inside the home needs to be treated in the septic system.
Space out your heavy water usage over the day and the week. For example, one load of laundry per day during the week is better than 7 loads on one day.
Fix any leaking tap or toilet. A toilet that "runs" will waste between 1/4 and 1/2 gallon of water per minute. That's 720 gallons per day, and over twice the amount a normal three bedroom house's septic system is designed to treat and disperse.
Check annually for any soft or wet spots showing up in the area where the septic field is located. If there is any indication of a small problem it is easier and much cheaper to fix before it becomes necessary to replace your entire drain field.
Have you septic tank cleaned regularly by a qualified pumper contractor. Although it may seem expensive at the time to pump your tank it is very cheap compared to replacing a septic field.

Don'ts

Erect any building, swimming pools etc. over any part of your on-site system.
Do not park automobiles or large equipment on any part of your onsite system.
Do not change the landscape elevation over any part of your onsite system.
Do not allow heavy cloven footed animals over any part of your onsite system.
Do not increase the amount of sewage flowing into the system by adding bedrooms or basement suites etc., before consulting with both a certified onsite contractor and the local health board.
Don't pour paints, solvents, antifreeze or other chemical products down the drain as they can seriously damage your onsite system.
Don't use any so-called septic additives. There are no additives on the market that help your system but there are many that can seriously harm it.

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Ken's Septic is a division of Mansell's & Ken's Environmental Services
Vancouver Island's Wastewater Management Specialists