There are two main types of septic systems. The most common are holding tanks which holds all effluent until it is removed, and hauled to a disposal/processing site. The other type is a two-compartment septic tank, where there is a processing component in the tank itself, and the processed effluent is pumped or siphoned out of the second compartment onto the ground or a septic field. 


Tri-Lakes services holding tanks on one of two approaches. Customers can wait until full, or almost full and call in for removal, or they can go on a schedule where we work with you to determine an appropriate interval with the aim being to not suffer the inconvenience of a full tank. This approach also allows us to work more efficiently, as we can top up our trucks if we are called into an area. We do have different pricing based on your location and size of tank. Please call/message the office for a quote! 


Septic field systems do need to be serviced regularly. Cleaning these systems has a risk to components inside the tank, but it has to be done regardless. Our drivers are as cautious as they can be while moving the recovery hose inside the tank, but please recognize this is very strenuous work. We would like someone on site while doing septics whenever possible. We generally recommend cleaning out your tank every 2 to 3 years. The type of water you have does effect septic tank bacterial action, so some systems need more frequent cleaning. We recommend summer to early fall as the best time, as the system has a chance to reestablish bacterial action before winters freezing conditions. We charge $300.00 + GST for this service. Remember that this tank is  filteration system and will be constantly full. Best indicator that you need a cleaning is the crust on the top is hardening up. When it gets too hard, our hoses are unable to break it up and remove the effluent.