For many waterfront and rural properties, septic systems safely manage household wastewater from toilets, sinks, showers and laundry. When they are properly maintained, they help protect groundwater, nearby wells and the lake itself.

Here are seven simple reminders for Steenburg Lake property owners:

1. Know where your system is located
Make sure you know the location of your septic tank, access lids and leaching bed. Keep any system plans, inspection reports and maintenance records somewhere easy to find.

2. Have your system checked regularly
Ontario’s SepticSmart! guidance recommends checking septic tanks periodically for sludge and scum buildup, generally every 3–5 years, and pumping when needed.

3. Check the effluent filter
If your system has an effluent filter, it should be inspected and cleaned regularly. Ontario guidance recommends checking it annually.

4. Conserve water and spread out heavy use
Too much water entering a septic system at once can affect how well it works. Fix leaking fixtures and, where possible, spread laundry and other heavy water use throughout the week.

5. Think before it goes down the drain
Avoid flushing or pouring fats, oils, food waste, wipes, pharmaceuticals and harsh chemicals into your septic system. Septic additives marketed as system enhancers are generally not necessary.

6. Protect your leaching bed
Avoid parking vehicles, placing structures, paving or directing roof and surface drainage over the leaching bed. Trees and large shrubs should also be kept away from the system where roots could cause damage.

7. Watch for signs of trouble
Slow drains, sewage odours, unusually wet or soggy ground around the leaching bed, or wastewater appearing at the surface can indicate a problem. If you notice something unusual, contact a qualified septic professional.

A *new* safety reminder for 2026

Ontario’s onsite wastewater industry is also emphasizing septic system safety this year.

Property owners should ensure that septic tank access lids and covers remain secure and in good condition, including any fasteners and secondary safety components. Damaged or unsecured access points should be addressed promptly by a qualified professional.

Why this matters

Proper septic care is one of the practical actions property owners can take to help reduce the risk of contaminants reaching groundwater and nearby lakes and rivers.

A well-maintained system can also help prevent costly repairs and extend the useful life of your septic system.

Learn more

For reliable Ontario-specific information, visit:

• Ontario Septic Systems and SepticSmart:
  https://www.ontario.ca/page/septic-systems
• Ontario Onsite Wastewater Association:
  https://www.oowa.org/
• Federation of Ontario Cottagers’ Associations – Septic Systems:
  https://foca.on.ca/septic-systems/
• Township of Limerick – Building and Septic Information:
  https://limerick.ca/services/building-planning/

A little septic awareness goes a long way toward protecting your property — and the health of our beautiful Steenburg Lake!