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Septic Systems Info from Gerry Norton Onsite Wastewater Practitioner
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Septic Tanks
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The purpose of the septic tank is to separate liquids from solids and to provide some breakdown of
organic matter in the wastewater. A septic tank is a buried, watertight container made from concrete,
polyethylene or fiberglass. In the past, the tank was sometimes made of steel or wood. |
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If you have a steel tank, it is likely rusted through and needs replacing. If you have a wooden one it is likely rotting and may need replacing.
The size of the septic tank will depend upon the size of the house (number of bedrooms) and household water use,
with minimum tank volumes ranging from 1,800 to 3,600 L depending on the province or territory.
Older tanks may be smaller than those installed today and tanks may have one or two compartments,
depending upon when and where they were installed. |
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