Septic and Holding Tank Pumping Service for Cottagers and Home Owners in the Kawartha’s
Do you live, cottage or have a business in the Kawartha’s or the Peterborough area? Does your septic tank need service? Does your holding tank need to be pumped?
Located in Young’s Point, Ontario the team at Kawartha Disposal provides reasonably priced, licensed, professional septic pumping services. Call us at 705-768-4783 to schedule an appointment.
Many rural businesses, homes and cottages use a septic system – a sewage removal process that collects wastewater generated from toilets, sinks, showers and appliances through pipes into the septic tank. Once in the tank, the solid material (sludge) settles to the bottom. Beneficial bacteria present in the sludge work to break down the solids and release grease, oil and fats (scum). These byproducts rise to the top, kept separate from the wastewater by a set of baffles. The remaining wastewater is dispersed through perforated pipes into the leaching bed or drain field where it is slowly and safely filtered by the soil. A septic system is privately owned and by law, you are responsible for its safe operation, maintenance and repair.
How do I know if my septic tank needs to be pumped?
There are several warning signs that your tank needs attention – soft, damp soil around the tank area, toilets and drains backing up and a bad smell coming from drains or the septic area.
At Kawartha Disposal, we are committed to helping you properly maintain and service your septic system. Regular maintenance pumping – generally every 3-5 years – is the best way to ensure that your tank and leaching bed can last for as long as possible (often 20-40 years). Systems with electrical float switches, pumps or mechanical components should be inspected more frequently. Regular pumping helps prevent tank overflow which can pollute groundwater, wells and surrounding water sources such as lakes and creeks.
Factors that can increase the need to pump more often than every 3-5 years are as follows:
- Household size – the larger the home and the more people using the system may require more frequent pumping
- Total amount of wastewater generated – Do you have old toilets, showerheads and washing machines that lack water-saving technology? Multiple teenagers taking long showers?
- The volume of solids in wastewater – your septic system is not a garbage can. The only things that you should flush are toilet paper and human waste
- Septic tank size – is the size of your tank appropriate for your requirements? Perhaps you have a cottage that has been added to since the tank was installed or the family has grown – you may need to consider pumping more often.
How do I know if my holding tank needs to be pumped?
Many holding tanks have alarms that will alert you to the need for pumping your tank. If you don’t have an alarm system, a visual inspection will let you know when your tank is full. Holding tanks generally require much more frequent pumping – depending on usage – often 6-8 times a year.
When is the best time to schedule a pump-out?
Spring and Summer are generally the best time to get your tank pumped. If your tank is near capacity you may want to get it pumped prior to spring rains to avoid flooding and sewage overflow. In the case of cottages, pumping prior to heavy summer use is a good idea. Winter is generally the worst time due to snow and frozen ground making it difficult to access the tank. However, if your tank is full – you need to get it pumped – call us at Kawartha Disposal – no matter what time of year and we will try to help.
How do I prepare for a septic tank or holding tank pump out?
It’s simple, the first step is to make sure the road is clear so the truck can access the tank. Second step to make sure debris, snow or grass is clear of the tank lid(s) so they can be accessed by the operator and finally, just stand back and let our experienced technician take care of the rest.
What happens if I have a water access property?
Our local referral is Kawartha Utilities.
What does a pump-out cost?
Costs vary depending on your location and size of tank. Holding tank pump-outs are slightly more expensive than septic tanks as the waste disposal fees are higher – they also require more frequent pumping than septic tanks. Call us at Kawartha Disposal for a detailed estimate based on your specific situation and location. Servicing Peterborough, Apsley, Buckhorn, Omemee, Warsaw, Douro Dummer, Bobcaygeon and more!
How do I schedule a pump out?
Call us at Kawartha Disposal 705-768-4783 and we will schedule a pump-out at your earliest convenience.
How far ahead do I need to book an appointment?
Typically 2-3 days but the wait may be longer during peak season.