FAQs
Septic Pro Maintenance would like to acknowledge the shared use of the following FAQ content as provided by the Capitol Regional District’s Septic Savvy program.
Q: What are the issues around malfunctioning septic systems?
A: When septic systems malfunction, untreated or partially treated wastewater can be exposed. Untreated wastewater carries dangerous viruses and pathogens that can result in illness and pollution in our community. Malfunctioning septic systems cause contamination of groundwater and local streams, rivers and lakes, as well as contamination of shellfish beds and nutrient enrichment of sensitive water bodies. A homeowner may be unaware that their systems is malfunctioning.
Q: What is the difference between Types 1, 2 and 3 septic systems?
A: Under the Provincial Sewerage System Regulation, septic systems are divided into Types 1, 2 and 3. Type 1 is treatment by septic tank and a drainfield. It may be gravity fed or pumped into the drainfield. Type 2 and Type 3 systems introduce further treatment in order to produce a higher quality effluent that can be discharged into a smaller sized drainfield. Type 2 and Type 3 systems are often used where there are site or soil constraints that prevent a Type 1 from being used. These systems often use a package treatment plant and they have mechanical or media components that require more frequent maintenance than Type 1 systems.
Q: Who can do work on a septic system?
A: The Provincial Sewerage System Regulation allows only Authorized Persons to design, plan, construct or do maintenance work on an onsite sewage system in BC. An Authorized Person is defined as a Professional Engineer or Registered Onsite Wastewater Practitioner (ROWP) with education or experience in onsite sewage system construction and maintenance.
The Applied Science Technologists & Technicians of BC (ASTTBC) is the provincial registering body for Registered Onsite Wastewater Practitioners (ROWPs). To find a qualified ROWP in your area, please visit their website at: owrp.asttbc.org
The Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of BC (APEGBC) maintains a list of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists undertaking services as Professionals under the Regulation. Under the Regulation, construction or maintenance of a Type 3 system must be under the supervision of a Professional. A list of Professionals can be found online at: https://www.egbc.ca/Member-Directories/Professionals-for-Sewerage-System-Regulation
For information on the Provincial Sewerage System Regulation visit https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/waste-management/sewage/onsite-sewage-systems
Q: How often does my system need to be pumped?
A: Although pump-out frequencies can vary based on house size and number of occupants, the most common pump-out frequency is 2-4 years. During an annual septic maintenance visit, Septic Pro Maintenance will perform a “sludge test” each year to determine whether or not a pump-out is required.
Keeping good records is always helpful!
Q: When my system is serviced, do I get a document that I can show the necessary authority as proof of maintenance provided?
Maintenance reports describe the current condition of all components of the septic system are provided for each maintenance visit.
Q: How do I know where my septic system tanks and drain field are located?
A: Effective May 1, 2005, all registered septic systems will have “as built diagrams” on record with Island Health. Your local health authority may have information on file for older systems that can be obtained by way of a Freedom of Information policy ( a small fee applies). Otherwise a trained professional can usually help to locate system components.
Q: What are common septic system repairs for failed systems?
Unfortunately when most older gravity-style systems fail, it can often be catastrophic failure. This usually requires a complete replacement with a new system. Sometimes older systems suffer from blockages or tree-root intrusion. Camera work and hydro-flushing can sometimes provide some extension to the life of an older system.
Septic Pro maintenance has years of experience performing all types of repairs and installations. “Septic Pro” can assist with all your septic system needs.
Top Ten Septic Savvy Steps:
- Locate your septic tank and dispersal system (drainfield). You will be prepared if there is a problem.
- Check the operation of your system annually. Look for signs of failure.
- Have your septic tank pumped regularly. Health authorities recommend pumping every two to five years. Combine the pump-out with a professional inspection.
- If you have a package treatment plant, set up a contract for annual maintenance.
- Make sure your system has an effluent filter to reduce the amount of solids entering your drainfield. 6. Keep a running maintenance record.
- Reduce your water consumption. Too much water use will flush solids into your drainfield rather than have them settle in the tank.
- Use environmentally friendly cleaning products. Some chemicals can upset the proper balance of bacteria needed to provide primary treatment inside your tank.
- Recycle or properly dispose of hazardous products. Do not pour them down the drain or put them in the garbage.
- Protect your drainfield by leaving it as undisturbed as possible. Do not drive or park on it. Landscape with grass rather than plants with roots that can damage your system