Sewage Disposal
Please note: The information provided within our website should be considered only a brief overview of required sewage waste systems. For all specific questions and detailed information prior to making any alterations to existing or malfunctioning systems please contact the Northwestern Health Unit in Kenora or a certified contractor.
Learn More about the permitted and commonly used types of septic systems in the Province of Ontario.
Class 4 Rural Septic Systems
How does your septic system work and what are its parts?
Here’s the short answer:
Today’s septic system is designed with two parts; a dual chamber septic tank and a leaching bed (septic field). In the first compartment of the septic tank heavy solids settle and lighter materials (fats, oils) float up as scum. Baffles and screens are built in to keep scum from escaping. Scum is then removed when tank is pumped out by a reputable contractor, and should be done every 3 – 5 years to maintain a healthy system.
In the second tank compartment, finer particles settle to the bottom and organic materials will break down. Note that as of Jan. 2007, effluent filters (where organic matter is trapped and decomposes on screen) became mandatory.
The septic field is made of drain pipes, surrounded by stone and either unsaturated native soil or imported sand. Effluent flows to the bed by gravity or pump depending on its location in relation to the tank. Liquid then seeps in a controlled manner into the ground where bacteria and other organisms process wastewater further.
What could be underground?
As with just about anything these days, septic systems have changed dramatically over the years, better protecting our environment by making them more effective and efficient. Older septic tank systems might be constructed of steel, cinderblock or concrete, while today’s tanks are prefab or plastic. Another change since the 1970’s is that tanks now have two compartments, whereas old tanks may have had only one.
Old leaching beds were made of clay tiles, asbestos, or non-corrode pipes and now they are typically plastic. The spacing between pipes used to be 3 feet and the current requirements state 5.25 feet apart.
Old parts don’t necessarily mean malfunction, but your system may not be working at today’s standards due to its age or changing demands. For this reason, a septic inspection is often recommended.
Septic Systems and Your Health
If your system is not working correctly, either due to age or increased demand, contaminants from wastewater can reach your drinking supply or your lake. Although septic systems work hard to remove most contaminants, they can still enter the groundwater table and cause health or environmental problems. The location of a septic system is critical and legislated distances should be respected between septic, home and water to have healthy system.
Why Should I Maintain my Septic System?
In addition to the fact that a well maintained septic system should last many years, it is ultimately your responsibility as a property owner. You’ll save time, money and worries in replacing a failed system.
A poorly maintained system or one that is not suitable (too small after the renovations) for your daily use requirements can be a source of unwanted nutrients leaching down into the lake or your drinking water supply. In addition to the health concerns to you and your family, this can contribute to algal blooms, weed growth and ultimately damage to the sensitive aquatic balance.
Most importantly
In Ontario the Ontario Building Code governs septic systems. To inspect, install, repair, upgrade or replace a system you must contact the Northwestern Health Unit in Kenora, Ontario.
You should also be aware that any contractors hired to work on your system; including designers and installers as well as anyone pumping or cleaning tanks must have a Building Code Identification Number (BCIN).
For more detailed information, please view the Sewage Permit Process: Backgrounder and Guide.
Northwestern Health Unit in Kenora, Ontario
807 468-3147
www.nwhu.on.ca
Signs of a Failing Septic System
- Unusually green or spongy grass above leaching field
- Offensive odours, after a rain in particular
- Slow-draining sinks and toilets
- Sludge back-up into house
- Sewage pooling above field
Items that should never, ever, EVER go into your septic system
- Anti-bacterial cleansers or soaps
- Fats, oils, grease
- Gasoline or anti-freeze
- Varnishes, paints or solvents
- Drain or toilet bowl cleaners
- Bleach or pesticides
- Nail polish remover
- Cat litter
- Coffee grounds, egg shells
- Cigarette butts
- Sanitary napkins, tampons, facial tissue, paper towels
You’d be surprised…
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