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A septic system is an excellent means of treating household wastewater.  On proper soils and where dwellings are spaced well apart septic systems can operate reliably for years.  Treating sewage on-site they eliminate the need for costly municipal sewers in rural areas.  Septic systems can also fail.  Many malfunctions are investigated by Ontario's Health Units every year.  They are often public health and environmental hazards and can also be very costly to repair.  Many of these problems could easily have been prevented.

Problems with septic systems often stem from improper use.  A surprising percentage of householders don't realize that they are using a septic system.  Many people don't realize that ongoing maintenance is required.  Still others connect additional toilets, showers, hot tubs and other water uses, without upgrading their septic system.  This manual can help. Offering operating advise, detailing the maintenance requirements, and suggesting options for septic systems in need of repairs, it's a practical guide to day-to-day "care and feeding" of your on-site treatment system.