Out of sight is no longer out of mind when it comes to your septic system. Working to ensure a healthy environment around your property doesn’t have to be a dirty job. Pioneer Septic Solutions has the solutions and expertise for maintaining one of the most important utilities on your property.
It’s serious business, and with more than 30 years’ experience installing and maintaining septic systems across Wellington County, Guelph and beyond, Pioneer Septic Solutions have the knowledge and experience improve your water quality and the quality of land around your home.
Owners Kevin and Lisa Dolderman are proud members of the Ontario Onsite Wastewater Association, a provincial not-for-profit association dedicated to promoting the value of onsite and decentralized wastewater management through education, improved practices, and advocacy for policies across Ontario.
Whether maintaining an existing septic system or installing a new one, Pioneer’s team are focused on upholding current industry and government standards for environmental stewardship. Their reputation for professional service is built on their expertise and accountability.
They believe education is key. Understanding what can go down the drain and what can’t, is simple. If it can go into the body, it can go into the septic system. If it can’t be digested, it shouldn’t be flushed. This is especially true of “flushable wipes”, which are not actually flushable and can cause major issues in pumps, filters, and piping. Being mindful of cleaning products and toiletries, is also important. Harsh chemicals and cleaning agents should never go into the aquifer.
As part of the Ontario Building Code, effluent filters are mandatory in septic systems. These filters prevent solids and suspended particles from entering the septic bed and ultimately, the surrounding environment. One of the best safeguards for a healthy septic system is maintenance of the effluent filter. Homeowners can access the effluent filter through the tank’s outlet lid, remove the filter, and hose it down to clear waste and debris.
A thorough cleaning every six months will ensure efficiency and help prevent clogs or sewage backups. Using a garden hose to clean the filter can help you remember to do it. Each spring and fall, when you bring the hose out or put it away, make sure to clean your effluent filter. Alternatively, mark your calendar to have Pioneer’s maintenance team, Snork’s Septic Service clean your filters for you.
Water is a precious resource. It’s something many people take for granted. It’s too often assumed that what goes down the drain is dealt with somewhere far off in a water treatment facility. The truth is, if you live with a septic system on your property, it’s that very system acting as the water treatment facility. The environment being impacted is your own, and ultimately the aquifer that surrounds your property.
It’s a big picture issue, despite the notion that rural homes or cottage property are a small piece of the puzzle. While our nation boasts 20 percent of the world’s total freshwater resources, according to the Government of Canada, we represent an estimated 7 percent of the world’s “renewable” fresh water. That number is staggering when you consider we are a nation of approximately 30 million people. The average citizen uses 20 to 40 litres a day for basic hygiene, sanitation, and hydration.
It’s a common belief that we have an abundance of water, but the reality is that our supply is used to excess. Ultimately, the future of our renewable fresh water is our responsibility. The team at Pioneer Septic Solutions takes this responsibility to heart.
Pump tanks are also a feature of some homes. It’s important to have a high-level alarm, which is designed to notify homeowners that the tank is full, or that the pump isn’t working. If an alarm is not installed, it’s worth the investment as it will afford peace of mind to know you’ll be alerted of any issues.
When installing an inground pool, or adding a shed or deck to your property, there are minimum separation distances to consider around the leaching beds and the septic tank. Trust Pioneer’s team to offer expert advice to ensure your changes are up to code. Visit Pioneer’s website to read the Septic Smart booklet or visit oowa.org for more information on separation distances.
The distance to other buildings isn’t the only thing to factor in when it comes to septic systems. The flat green expanse above the leaching bed should be regarded with care. This levelled area may seem like the ideal space for a backyard ice rink, or a temporary above-ground pool, but the weight of the water required for these features directly impacts the soil below. It is compacted over time, preventing the natural aeration necessary to keep your septic system dry. When the rink melts or the pool is drained, the septic bed can flood. It’s important to let the grass grow and leave the space vacant.
If an emergency arises with your septic system, you need to have fast, easy access. Pioneer Septic Solutions and their maintenance/pumping company Snork’s Septic Service sell Polylok Risers and Lids, which is an elevated system for the septic tank. The risers are durable, easy to fasten for a water and airtight seal, and maintain their shape, while blending into the terrain. The lids can sit at ground or above grade level. Inexpensive to install, it’s a simple solution for locating your tank quickly when maintenance, repairs, or pumping are required.
Trust the team at Pioneer Septic Solutions to service, install and inspect your septic system with professional and environmentally friendly care. Ensure your property and the surrounding environment have a healthy future, for your family and for the planet.
For more information visit www.pioneersepticsolutions.ca or call 519-763-3349 to speak to a member of their team Monday to Friday, from 8am to 5pm.
