1. Concrete Septic Tanks

Concrete septic tanks are the most common type we see in Kamloops.

Why homeowners choose concrete tanks

• Very strong and long-lasting
  
  
• Can handle larger homes and higher daily water use
  
  
• Often used for older properties and some commercial sites
  
  

What to watch for

Concrete tanks can crack over time if the ground shifts or if maintenance is ignored. We often service concrete tanks that are 30–40 years old and still working — but only when they’ve been pumped and inspected regularly.

If ignored, warning signs like slow drains or sewage smells may appear. If you’re unsure what those signs look like, read our guide on early warning signs your septic tank needs pumping to catch problems before they get worse.

2. Plastic (Poly) Septic Tanks

Plastic septic tanks are lighter and more common in newer residential installations.

Why plastic tanks are popular

• Easier and faster to install
  
  
• Do not rust or corrode
  
  
• More affordable for many homeowners
  
  

Important installation note

Because they are lightweight, plastic tanks must be installed correctly. If not, they can shift or float, especially in wet soil conditions.

Plastic tanks work well for single-family homes, but we rarely recommend them for commercial use.

3. Fiberglass Septic Tanks

Fiberglass tanks offer a balance between strength and weight.

Benefits of fiberglass tanks

• Strong and resistant to cracking
  
  
• Smooth interior helps prevent buildup
  
  
• Long lifespan when maintained properly
  
  

When fiberglass makes sense

These tanks are often chosen when soil conditions are challenging or when homeowners want a durable, low-maintenance option.

What Happens When the Wrong Septic Tank Is Chosen?

We’ve seen cases where the wrong tank type caused:

• Tanks shifting or floating
  
  
• Frequent backups
  
  
• Shortened system lifespan
  
  

In many situations, the fix involved correcting water usage habits and scheduling proper septic pumping and inspections in Kamloops before serious damage occurred.

Choosing the right tank — and maintaining it — saves money and stress in the long run.

Septic Tank Maintenance: What Matters Most

No matter which tank type you have, how you use your system matters more than the tank material.

Pumping rule of thumb

• 5 household users: pump every 2 years
  
  
• 2 household users: pump every 5 years
  
  

Actual pumping frequency depends on:

• Daily water use
  
  
• Toilet paper usage
  
  
• What gets flushed
  
  

If you’re unsure how often your system should be serviced, our article on how often you should pump your septic tank breaks it down in simple terms.

Real-world experience

We see it all the time:
Homeowners who install bidets and use less toilet paper require far fewer pump-outs. Less paper means less sludge buildup and a healthier system.

Our Best Advice for Kamloops Homeowners

This is the same advice we give every customer:

• Only flush human waste and approved toilet paper
  
  
• Never flush wipes, paper towels, or hygiene products
  
  
• Avoid doing many loads of laundry in one day
  
  
• Limit long, back-to-back showers
  
  
• Avoid bleach and bacteria-killing chemicals
  
  
• Have your system inspected every few years
  
  
• Clean your septic filter twice per year if equipped
  
  

Simple habits can add years to your septic system’s life.

Which Septic Tank Is Right for You?

The best septic tank depends on:

• Your property size
  
  
• Soil conditions
  
  
• Residential or commercial use
  
  
• Daily water habits
  
  

That’s why working with experienced professionals matters. At The Lux Loo, we don’t just pump tanks — we help protect septic systems across Kamloops and the Thompson-Okanagan.

If you need help with inspections, maintenance, or professional septic services in Kamloops, our team is here to help.