The conventional septic system comprises of a septic tank and leaching or distribution bed. Historically they were the most common type of septic system and were usually gravity feed systems. Due to changes in building codes over the years and lack of separation distances (both vertical and horizontal) on small lots, it is becoming more difficult to install these types of systems. Currently these types of systems make up approximately 30% of our installations.

A tertiary septic system is comprised of three parts, including a treatment unit which is placed between a septic tank and a distribution bed. There are numerous makes and models of tertiary septic systems but one thing to remember is that every tertiary system has to have a maintenance agreement between the home-owner, the producer of the unit and the local administrative authority (eg. Township or Conservation authority). These systems are usually based on aeration or peat acting as a treatment unit to the effluent prior to discharge into the distribution bed.

We install three types of tertiary systems; Eco-flo, Clearstream and Puraflo.

The first signs of a septic system fauilure are slow drainage, gurgling noises, plumbing back-ups, and bacteria in the well water. Often the location of the issue can be identified by locating an area of strong odor on the septic bed. This may be accompanied by visual signs such as lush grass in one particular area. If the soil is saturated due to a leak, this can be vary hazerdous and the tank may be at risk of collapse if the ground is heavily saturated. A professional should be contacted imidiatly in these cases.

Click here to see photo examples of differnt types of septic system failures.