The Septic Tank Man

A septic tanks resource for homeowners

Septic tips

Why Proper Septic Tank pH Matters

When it comes to home wastewater management systems like septic tanks, the pH level is a crucial but often overlooked factor that plays a vital role in system functionality and longevity.
The pH level is a measure of acidity or alkalinity which ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. For septic systems, a slightly acidic to neutral pH range (typically between 6 and 8) is considered ideal.
Monitoring and maintaining the correct pH level is paramount for a variety of reasons, including microbial activity, waste decomposition, and system longevity.
Microbial Activity
The septic tank’s primary function is…

What You Should Know as a Septic System Owner in Canada

Owning a septic system in Canada comes with its own set of responsibilities and challenges. Unlike homes connected to municipal sewer lines, septic systems require proactive maintenance to ensure proper functioning.
If you’re new to owning a property with a septic system in Canada, here are some essential things you should know:
Types of Septic Systems
There are different types of septic systems, but the most common in Canada are the conventional system and the advanced treatment system.
The conventional system usually consists of a septic tank and a drain field while advanced treatment systems may have …

What You Should Know about Cesspools

Cesspools, also known as sump pits or soakaways, were once a common method for managing wastewater from homes. These holes in the ground, often lined with porous materials like cement or stone, acted as temporary storage units for wastewater before it slowly seeped into the surrounding soil.
A cesspool essentially acts as a temporary holding pit for wastewater. Unlike modern septic systems, traditional cesspools lacked the ability to separate solids from liquids.
Typically, the wastewater would seep through the bottom and sometimes the sides of the pit, entering the surrounding soil.
Nowadays, many cesspools are …