Septic care is important to the Environment and to the homeowner.
Taking care of your septic system is not complicated and doesn’t have to cost you a lot of money. NOT taking care of your septic, however, could cost you a lot of money in the end, as digging up and replacing a septic system can cost tens of thousands of dollars.
This booklet will help you become familiar with how your system works and how to keep it working properly. It is important to know that you are responsible for your septic system and that it is in your best interest to take good care of it — from a health, financial and environmental perspective.
55598_Eng:2008 Septic Smart (rvca.ca)
While our municipality does not have a mandatory septic re inspection program at this time, we think you will appreciate the value in having such a service done on your own septic systems. This video highlights how a septic system works, the importance of having your septic system inspected on a regular basis and illustrates that often small repairs can be made before they cause issues with your entire system and jeopardize the lake and groundwater in your neighborhood.
Dysart Septic Reinspection Final - YouTube
The Do's and Don'ts of your Septic System.
Do Your Part, Be SepticSmart: The Do's and Don'ts of Your Septic System (epa.gov)
Having guests or renting your property? Not everyone is aware of or familiar with how to properly use a septic system. Please print and post these reminders so that having a house full of fun doesn't turn into a disaster for your septic system.
SepticeSmart Rental Flyer (epa.gov)
The majority of rural Ontarians and cottagers rely on a septic system to handle their household waste. This video from the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs explains how a septic system works.
Plant cautiously in the area on top of the leaching bed of your septic system. Don't plant trees or shrubs near your septic system. Roots will seek out moisture and could crack your pipes. Shallow rooted ground cover is your best choice.
Keep the input of phosphorus to a minimum. Choose low-phosphate or phosphate free cleaners to keep your septic system healthy and minimize the risk of contaminants leaching into your groundwater and nearby water systems. High phosphorus levels can be associated with lowering the water quality of our lakes and rivers and increasing the risk of harmful algal blooms. Read the labels on your cleaning supplies and choose septic friendly products!
It's not a garbage can! Don't pour grease, oil, and fats down the drain. It can cause serious plumbing issues and obstruct the flow in your septic system. It can lead to costly repairs and reduce the functioning of your septic system.
FOCA (Federation of Ontario Cottagers' Associations) has released a video about Cottage Country Septic Systems, including an overview about the parts of a septic system, maintenance tips, signs of trouble and more! Follow along to fully understand the parts of your septic system and how it all works!
FOCA Cottage Country Septic System Video - YouTube
Thinking of buying or selling a property with a septic system and well? Read over these insights from the experts at the Ontario Onsite Wastewater Association regarding this issue.