Which Holding Tank Brand Offers the Best Value for a Seasonal Cottage With No Municipal Sewer Connection?

A seasonal cottage without a municipal sewer connection needs a reliable way to manage wastewater. For some properties, a sewage holding tank may be part of the solution. However, choosing the right tank involves more than comparing brands, capacities and prices.

Cottage owners must consider local approval requirements, wastewater volume, pumping frequency, installation conditions and long-term operating costs. A tank that costs less to purchase may cost more to operate if it needs frequent pumping or does not suit the property's requirements.

Concrete holding tanks are one option for properties that require a storage solution for sewage. This guide explains what to check before buying a holding tank for a cottage, how to compare different materials and what to consider when evaluating Acton Precast's concrete holding tank range.

What Is a Holding Tank for a Cottage?

A sewage holding tank is a watertight tank that stores wastewater until a licensed or otherwise authorized sewage hauler removes it. Unlike a conventional septic tank, a holding tank does not send wastewater to a leaching bed for further treatment.

This difference is important.

A septic system treats wastewater through a tank and a leaching bed. A holding tank stores the wastewater on the property. The owner must arrange regular pumping and disposal.

Holding tanks may be considered for properties where a conventional sewage system cannot be installed or where an approved holding tank system is already in use. However, Ontario places restrictions on the installation of new holding tank systems.

Before comparing brands, confirm that a holding tank is permitted for your cottage property.

Can You Install a Holding Tank at a Seasonal Cottage in Ontario?

Not automatically.

Ontario classifies a sewage holding tank system as a Class 5 sewage system. The 2024 Ontario Building Code restricts where a new Class 5 system may be installed. Its permitted circumstances include certain temporary operations, remediation of unsafe existing systems and upgrades where a Class 4 system is not possible because of site limitations.

The temporary-operation provision specifically excludes seasonal recreational use. Therefore, the fact that a cottage is seasonal does not, by itself, make a new holding tank system eligible for approval.

The local approval authority must assess the property's circumstances before installation. Do not purchase a tank until you have confirmed that the proposed system can be approved.

Ontario also sets specific requirements for holding tank systems:

• A holding tank must have a minimum working capacity of 9,000 litres.

• A residential holding tank must provide at least seven days of holding capacity based on the total daily design sanitary sewage flow.

• The tank must allow settled solid matter to be removed during pumping.

• The tank must have a suitable warning device to alert occupants when the sewage level approaches capacity.

• The tank must meet the applicable CSA B66 requirements.

These requirements affect the tank you can buy and the way the system must be installed.

What Size Holding Tank Does a Seasonal Cottage Need?

The correct capacity depends on the approved system design and the property's expected wastewater flow.

A cottage used by two people for occasional weekends will usually produce a different volume of wastewater from a property used by a large family throughout the summer. The number of occupants, duration of stays and water-use habits all affect the total wastewater volume.

However, you cannot choose a smaller tank simply because the cottage is occupied for only part of the year. Ontario's minimum holding capacity and seven-day requirement still apply where the rules govern the installation.

Consider these factors before selecting a tank:

Number of occupants: More occupants generally produce more wastewater.

Length of stays: A cottage occupied for several consecutive weeks may need a different operating plan from one used for occasional weekends.

Water-use habits: Showers, laundry, dishwashing and toilets all contribute to wastewater volume.

Pumping access: The property needs suitable access for the sewage hauler.

Warning system: Occupants need enough warning to arrange pumping before the tank reaches capacity.

Ask a qualified septic system designer or the local approval authority to confirm the required capacity. Do not use a general household-size chart as a substitute for the approved design.

Which Holding Tank Material Offers the Best Value?

Concrete, plastic and fibreglass are common materials used for sewage storage tanks. Each has different handling and installation requirements.

The best value depends on the product specifications, site conditions, purchase cost and expected operating requirements.

A concrete tank's weight can be useful in some site conditions, but it does not remove the need to assess groundwater pressure or anchoring requirements. Lightweight tanks may require specific bedding, backfill and anchoring procedures.

Do not assume that one material is always better. Compare approved products and their installation requirements for the actual property.

What Should You Check Before Choosing a Concrete Holding Tank?

A concrete holding tank should meet the applicable standards and suit the property's installation conditions.

1. Confirm the Working Capacity

Check the actual working capacity in litres. Do not rely only on the advertised gallon size.

Ontario requires a minimum working capacity of 9,000 litres for a holding tank. A tank with a nominal capacity close to this limit should be checked against its documented working capacity.

2. Check Product Registration and Documentation

Ask the manufacturer for the product drawing and documentation that confirms the tank's applicable standard and registration status.

Ontario's Building Code requires a Class 5 holding tank to conform to CSA B66. Check that the exact model you plan to purchase has the required documentation.

3. Review the Dimensions and Weight

Tank dimensions affect excavation size, placement and access. Weight affects delivery equipment and lifting arrangements.

Confirm the tank's length, width, height, inlet location, access opening and total weight before preparing the excavation.

4. Check Access for Pumping

The tank must allow the complete removal of settled solid matter. Its location should also allow the sewage hauler to reach the access opening.

A tank that is difficult to reach can make routine pumping more complicated and expensive.

5. Review Groundwater and Burial Conditions

Groundwater can create pressure around an underground tank. The Ontario Building Code requires a tank to be securely anchored where flooding or groundwater levels may create hydrostatic pressure.

The tank must also stay within its designed maximum burial depth. Ask the manufacturer and installer to confirm the permitted installation conditions.

What Holding Tank Options Does Acton Precast Offer?

Acton Precast Concrete Limited manufactures precast concrete sewage holding tanks for residential and other projects.

Its listed sewage holding tank range includes four models:

The listed 2,000-gallon model has a working capacity of 9,100 litres. This is above Ontario's 9,000-litre minimum, but the system designer must still confirm that it meets the property's seven-day holding requirement.

The 6,000-gallon model uses a two-piece design. The 11,000-gallon model is also a two-piece unit and is reinforced for traffic loading. These larger models may suit projects with higher storage requirements, subject to the approved design and site conditions.

Acton Precast lists its sewage holding tanks with a 24-inch Polylok riser and lid, along with a 6-inch cleanout hole. Confirm the exact components and installation details for the selected model before ordering.

View the available models and product drawings on the Acton Precast Sewage Holding Tanks page.

How Much Does a Holding Tank Cost Over Time?

The purchase price is only one part of the total cost.

A holding tank requires regular pumping. The frequency depends on its working capacity and the amount of wastewater produced.

A smaller tank may have a lower initial purchase price, but it may require more frequent pumping. A larger tank may reduce the number of pumping visits, but it can cost more to purchase, transport and install.

Consider these costs when comparing products:

Tank purchase: Compare the current price of the exact model and its included components.

Delivery and placement: Check whether delivery and placement are included. Confirm the delivery distance, lifting requirements and any additional charges.

Excavation and installation: Include excavation, bedding, backfill, equipment and installation labour.

Pumping: Estimate the annual pumping cost using the expected wastewater volume and local hauler rates.

Maintenance and monitoring: Include warning-device maintenance and regular inspection.

A useful comparison is the estimated total cost over several years, not just the initial tank price. Ask local sewage haulers for their current rates before making a decision.

How Can Cottage Owners Reduce Holding Tank Pumping Costs?

The tank capacity and household water use both affect pumping frequency.

You can manage wastewater volume by fixing leaking taps and toilets, using water-efficient fixtures and avoiding unnecessary laundry loads during cottage stays.

Keep the tank alarm in working order. Arrange pumping before the tank reaches its maximum working level. Also keep the access opening clear so the sewage hauler can reach it without delays.

Do not discharge stormwater, roof drainage or other unwanted water into the holding tank. This uses storage capacity without providing any benefit.

Which Holding Tank Offers the Best Value for Your Cottage?

There is no single brand that offers the best value for every cottage. The right choice depends on whether the system can be approved, the required working capacity, the site conditions and the total cost of ownership.

A precast concrete tank may be worth considering when its documented specifications suit the property and the delivery and installation arrangements are practical.

Acton Precast offers concrete sewage holding tanks from 9,100 to 50,000 litres. The 9,100-litre model is listed just above Ontario's minimum working capacity. Larger options are available for projects that require more storage.

However, capacity alone does not confirm suitability. Your designer must check the seven-day holding requirement, and the local approval authority must confirm that a Class 5 system is permitted at the property.

Before purchasing, compare the product drawings, CSA B66 documentation, delivery costs, installation requirements and local pumping rates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Holding Tank Size in Ontario?

Ontario's 2024 Building Code requires a holding tank to have a minimum working capacity of 9,000 litres. Residential holding tanks must also provide at least seven days of holding capacity based on the total daily design sanitary sewage flow.

Can I Install a Holding Tank at a Seasonal Cottage in Ontario?

Not automatically. Ontario restricts the installation of new Class 5 sewage systems. Seasonal recreational use is excluded from the temporary-operation exception. Other limited circumstances may allow a holding tank system. Contact the local approval authority before purchasing a tank.

How Often Does a Cottage Holding Tank Need Pumping?

Pumping frequency depends on the tank's working capacity and the amount of wastewater produced. The owner should monitor the tank level and arrange pumping before it reaches capacity. The required warning device also helps occupants plan for pumping.

Is a Concrete Holding Tank Better Than a Plastic Tank?

Not in every situation. Concrete tanks are heavy and require suitable lifting equipment. Plastic tanks are lighter but have their own installation and anchoring requirements. Compare the approved product specifications and site conditions before choosing.

What Is the Difference Between a Septic Tank and a Holding Tank?

A septic tank forms part of a treatment system that sends effluent to a leaching bed. A holding tank stores wastewater until a sewage hauler removes it. It does not provide the same treatment function as a septic tank and leaching bed.

Does a Holding Tank Need an Alarm?

Ontario's sewage system requirements include a warning device that alerts occupants when the tank is nearing capacity. The warning must provide enough time to arrange sewage removal before the tank becomes full.

Explore Concrete Sewage Holding Tanks From Acton Precast

Choosing a holding tank starts with confirming that the proposed system is permitted for your cottage. Once you have approval and the required capacity, compare tank dimensions, product documentation, delivery, installation and long-term pumping costs.

Acton Precast Concrete Limited offers several precast concrete sewage holding tank options for different project requirements.

Visit the Acton Precast sewage holding tank product page to review the available models and drawings.

For product information, contact Acton Precast at 519-853-1529 or 1-800-461-1516.