Septic Tank Pumping | Kawartha Lakes & East-Central Ontario
Septic Tank Pumping You Can Count On
We know a backed-up system or an overdue pump-out can be stressful — and it never happens at a convenient time. That's why we make it simple: honest pricing, fast scheduling, and a crew that shows up when we say we will. Whether you're overdue, on a schedule, or dealing with an emergency, we'll take care of it.
Imrie Septic — Your Complete Septic Partner.
What to Expect When We Pump Your Tank
We make the process simple. Here’s how it works from start to finish:
Step 1:
Book Your Service
Call us or request a quote online. We’ll confirm a service window that works for your schedule. Same-day and next-day service available for urgent situations.
Step 2:
We Access Your Tank
Our crew arrives on time and gets set up. We’ll remove plastic screw-on lids and concrete access lids (24″ and under) at no extra charge. Important: tank access lids must be exposed and accessible before our arrival. If your lids are buried, let us know when booking and we can discuss options.
Step 3:
Full Pump-Out and Inspection
We pump the full contents of your tank and do a visual inspection of the baffles, inlet, and outlet. If we see anything concerning, we’ll let you know — no pressure, just honest information.
Step 4:
Proper Disposal
All waste is transported to a licensed disposal facility in full compliance with Ontario regulations — because protecting the groundwater and lakes in our community matters to us. We handle the paperwork so you don’t have to think about it.
Straightforward Pricing. No Surprises.
We believe in honest, upfront pricing. Here’s what to expect for residential septic tank pumping in the Kawartha Lakes and Durham regions:
Routine Pump-Out (up to 1,000 gallons): Starting at $425
Larger Tanks (1,250 – 1,500 gallons): Starting at $500
Emergency / After-Hours Service: Call for pricing.
Lid Locating & Exposure: Additional fee if lids are buried.
Tired of digging up your lids every service? Ask about riser installations — a one-time upgrade ($800–$1,200) that brings your lids to the surface permanently, making every future pump-out faster, easier, and less expensive.
Final pricing depends on tank size, accessibility, location, and current pumping conditions. We provide exact pricing before any work begins — no hidden fees, no surprises on your invoice.
Getting started is simple:
1. Book your service — call us or request a quote online.
2. We assess and pump — full pump-out with honest inspection.
3. We recommend next steps — maintenance plan, repairs, or just “you’re good for now.”
Stop Guessing When to Pump Your Tank
That’s why we offer something most septic companies don’t: core sampling. We take a measurement of the sludge and scum levels in your tank and give you real data on your system’s condition. No guesswork. No pumping a tank that doesn’t need it. No skipping a pump-out that’s overdue.
Most septic companies tell you to pump every 3-5 years. That’s a rough estimate at best. The Ontario Building Code actually states that a septic tank should be pumped when solids reach 30% of tank capacity — and how fast that happens depends on your household size, water usage, diet, cleaning products, and dozens of other factors. A family of two could go 7 years. A family of five might need it in 24 months. Time alone is a bad metric.
A licensed sewage hauler should inspect your system and pump out the solids when required — that’s what the Ontario Building Code recommends. But ‘when required’ is the key phrase. Without measuring, you’re just guessing.
Our Maintenance Plans Take the Guesswork Out
With an Imrie Septic maintenance plan, we monitor your system so you don’t have to think about it. Here’s what’s included:
✓ Scheduled core sampling to measure actual solids levels
✓ Effluent Filter cleaning (if equipped)
✓ Pumping only when your system actually needs it — saving you money
✓ Visual inspection of baffles, inlet, and outlet at every visit
✓ Priority booking and preferred scheduling
✓ Service reminders so nothing falls through the cracks
✓ Complete records of your system’s history
Want to stop guessing? Call us at 705-484-5500 or ask about our maintenance plans.
Did you know? If you have a Level IV treatment unit or BMEC Authorized system, Ontario regulations require you to have a maintenance contract. Even if your system is conventional, regular professional monitoring is the smartest way to avoid expensive surprises.
Why Customers Choose Imrie Septic for Pumping
We Live Here Too
We’re on septic systems ourselves. We understand the worry, the inconvenience, and what it means when something goes wrong. That’s why we treat every home like our own.
Honest From the Start
You’ll never be sold something you don’t need. We give you our honest assessment, clear options, and upfront pricing — then let you decide what’s right for your home and budget.
Built to Last
Whether it’s a pump-out or a full installation, we use the best equipment and materials because your system needs to perform for decades, not just pass inspection.
How do I know when my tank actually needs pumping?
The most accurate way is core sampling — a measurement of the actual sludge and scum levels in your tank. If solids have reached approximately one-third of your tank’s total depth, it’s time to pump. We offer core sampling as part of our maintenance plans so you’re pumping based on real data, not rough timelines. If you’d rather not guess, ask us about setting up a monitoring schedule.
How long does a septic tank pump-out take?
A typical residential pump-out takes 30 to 60 minutes from arrival to completion, assuming lids are already exposed and accessible. If access is difficult or the site requires extra setup, it may take longer.
Is there anything I should do to prepare for my pump-out?
Make sure your septic tank access lids are exposed and accessible at ground level before we arrive. We’ll remove standard plastic lids at no extra charge, but they need to be visible — we don’t dig for buried lids. If you’re not sure where your tank is or your lids are buried, call us ahead of time and we can discuss options, including installing risers that bring your lids to the surface permanently.
Do I need to be home when you pump my tank?
Not necessarily. As long as we can access your tank and driveway, we can complete the service while you’re away. We’ll confirm any access details when you book.
What happens if my tank hasn't been pumped in 10+ years?
It’s more common than you think. We’ll pump it out and inspect the condition of your baffles and drain field connections. In many cases, the system is still functioning — it just needs to get back on a regular schedule. If there are issues, we’ll walk you through your options honestly.
Can you pump my tank in the winter?
Yes. We operate year-round in the Kawartha Lakes region. Winter access depends on driveway and ground conditions, but in most cases we can get to your tank without issue.
Do you pump holding tanks too?
Yes. We service both septic tanks and holding tanks. Holding tanks require more frequent pumping — typically monthly or bi-monthly depending on household usage. We offer scheduled service so you never have to think about it.
What should I never put in my septic system?
Avoid putting cooking oils, food waste, pharmaceuticals, cigarette butts, feminine hygiene products, or household chemicals down your drains. Don’t use “septic system enhancer” additives — your system doesn’t need them and they can actually disrupt the natural bacterial process. Also avoid draining hot tub or spa water into your system, and check whether your water softener backwash is connected to your septic — unless your system was designed for it, this can cause problems.
Ready to Schedule Your Pump-Out?
Get it done and get back to enjoying your home. Same-day and next-day service available.
Imrie Septic — Your Complete Septic Partner.