1. Know When It’s Time for an Upgrade
Not sure if your tank needs an upgrade? Look out for these signs:
Slow drains in your home
Frequent backups or clogs
Unpleasant smells near your tank or drain field
Wet patches in your yard
An older system (15–20+ years)
These are all red flags. If your tank is too small or too old, upgrading can save you from bigger problems later. In Peterborough, local soil and climate can also affect tank life. So don’t wait until it fails—be proactive.
2. Understand Your Tank Type
Before upgrading, it helps to know what kind of tank you already have. Is it a concrete, plastic, or steel tank? Each material behaves differently over time.
Concrete tanks are strong but can crack with age.
Plastic tanks don’t rust but may shift or crack if not installed right.
Steel tanks often rust and need replacement faster.
If you’re not sure what you have, call a local septic pro in Peterborough. They’ll inspect it and help you plan your upgrade the right way.
3. Choose the Right Size
One big mistake people make during upgrades is picking the wrong size. Too small, and it’ll overflow. Too big, and you’re wasting money.
Your ideal tank size depends on:
Household or business size
Daily water usage
Number of bathrooms
Future plans (adding rooms, tenants, etc.)
A standard home usually needs a 1,000–1,500-gallon tank. But every case is different. Local professionals who handle tank upgrades in Peterborough can help calculate what’s best for you.
4. Get the Right Permits
In Peterborough and across Ontario, tank upgrades need to follow health and safety rules. You may need permits before starting any work. Ignoring this step could lead to fines or delays.
Your contractor should handle the paperwork, but ask to confirm. Make sure everything meets local building and environmental codes.
5. Pick a Trusted Contractor
Don’t choose just anyone with a shovel and a truck. A septic tank upgrade is a big investment. You want a team that knows the local land and follows the rules.
Here’s what to look for:
Licensed and insured
Good reviews from locals
Experience with tank upgrades in Peterborough
Clear estimates and timelines
Ask questions. A good contractor won’t mind explaining things in plain language.
6. Consider Eco-Friendly Options
If you’re upgrading, why not make it better for the environment too?
Newer tank systems use less energy and treat waste more efficiently. You can also explore systems that reuse water for lawns or gardens. These upgrades not only help nature—they may lower your water bills over time.
Talk to your contractor about “green” choices during your planning stage.
7. Plan for the Weather
Peterborough has cold winters and rainy springs. This affects when you should plan your upgrade.
Try to book the work during warmer, drier months—like late spring or early fall. Wet or frozen ground can make digging harder and slow down the job.
A bit of planning can save you time and money.
8. Don’t Forget the Drain Field
Upgrading the tank is just one part. If your drain field is old, clogged, or undersized, your new tank won’t perform well.
Inspect the whole system. Sometimes, just cleaning or reworking the drain field makes a huge difference. Your contractor can tell you if it’s still good or needs changes.
9. Budget for the Full Job
Tank upgrades come with more than just the cost of the tank. You might also need:
Excavation
Soil testing
Pipe replacement
Permit fees
Landscaping after the job
Get a full quote upfront. It’s better to plan ahead than be surprised later.
A typical tank upgrade in Peterborough could cost anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000+, depending on the work. Always ask what’s included.
10. Schedule Regular Maintenance
Once your new tank is installed, don’t forget about it. Maintenance is key to keeping it running well for years.
Here’s a basic routine:
Pump every 3–5 years
Avoid flushing wipes, grease, or harsh chemicals
Use water efficiently
Get yearly inspections
Good habits save you money and keep your system healthy.
11. Watch for Local Rebates or Incentives
Sometimes, the City of Peterborough or environmental programs offer rebates for septic upgrades. These can help reduce your total cost.
Check local websites or ask your contractor if any are available. It doesn’t hurt to look—you might save hundreds.
12. Ask for a System Map
After your upgrade, ask your contractor for a system map. It should show:
Tank location
Pipes and access lids
Drain field lines
This will help with future repairs, pumping, or if you sell your home. It’s also useful for marking spots you should never park or build over.
13. Prepare Your Property
Before the upgrade begins, prepare your yard:
Move any vehicles or garden tools
Let your neighbors know about the work
Keep kids and pets away from the site
This helps things go smoothly and keeps everyone safe.
14. Upgrade with the Future in Mind
Think long-term. Are you planning to rent out your basement? Add an in-law suite? Install a home office?
If so, choose a system that can handle the extra use. It’s easier and cheaper to plan ahead than to upgrade again later.
15. Trust Local Experience
When it comes to tank upgrades in Peterborough, nothing beats local experience. Every property is unique. The soil, layout, weather, and rules are different from place to place.
Working with a local expert—like Clancy’s Septic Services—gives you peace of mind. We know the area. We’ve helped your neighbors. And we’re here when you need support after the job’s done.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading your tank is a smart move—if you do it right. Follow these simple tips to avoid problems, save money, and get a system that lasts for years.
Whether you're upgrading because of age, performance issues, or planning ahead, remember: good planning, the right team, and local knowledge make all the difference.
If you’re in Peterborough and thinking about a tank upgrade, talk to a trusted local expert today.
5 FAQs About Tank Upgrades in Peterborough
1. How do I know if I need a tank upgrade?
Look for slow drains, bad smells, wet areas in your yard, or if your tank is over 20 years old. A septic inspection can confirm.
2. What permits do I need for a tank upgrade in Peterborough?
You may need permits from your local health unit or municipality. Your contractor should help with this.
3. How long does a tank upgrade take?
Most jobs take 1–3 days, depending on weather and soil conditions. Complicated systems may take longer.
4. Can I upgrade my tank in winter?
It’s possible, but not ideal. Frozen ground makes digging harder. It’s best to do the work in spring or fall.
5. How much does a tank upgrade cost?
Prices vary, but expect anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000+ depending on tank size, soil, permits, and labor.
