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If you own a septic tank, then you are probably aware of how expensive it can be to repair one. As a concerned homeowner, learning how your septic works help you make the most out of it. If you don’t want to spend on costly pumping or repair charges from time to time, then you have to be cautious of what goes in. Below is a list of things you shouldn’t flush into your septic tank to maintain its functionality.
Antibacterial Products
Septic tanks depend on a wide range of micro-bacteria to convert solid wastes into liquid. Therefore, flushing antibacterial products such as medicine, hand sanitizers, toilet cleaners, and kitchen disinfectants can cause death to these useful organisms. Note that when such bacteria are eliminated from the septic system, the breakdown process can be halted or slowed, causing failures.
Wet Wipes
Wet wipes have proven to be effective in maintaining hygiene and sanitation. Unfortunately, they are part of the reason why septic systems clog. While some brands market their products as flush-able, this is far from the truth. Your septic isn’t prepared to handle them. Therefore, to avoid clogging, be sure to dispose of them in a bin.
Sanitary towels and diapers are made from non-biodegradable products. Since they can’t be broken down by the bacteria, they will accumulate in the tank, absorb water and cause sludge buildup. In some cases, these products are known to cause clogging at the u-bend of the toilet, making you contact septic services.
Condoms
Unlike the popular opinions, condoms aren’t made purely from latex rubber. Instead, other synthetic materials such as polyurethane are added to make the final product thinner and stronger. While the latex rubber is biodegradable, the polyurethane synthetics aren’t. If flushed down the septic, the condom can cause blockages to your system.
Cooking Grease/Oil
While it may seem tempting, it’s advisable not to dispose of cooking oil in your toilets. When hot, the grease can pour out smoothly. However, the problem starts with it starts to cool and solidify. Your septic’s inlet baffle will get sticky and trap any flowing debris. Instead of disposing of cooking grease in the kitchen sink or septic toilet, you should let it settle, put it in a bag and throw it in a bin.
Paints
Paint is a toxic substance. While there are two main types of pains (water-based and oil-based), all of them contain color pigments and additives, which can affect micro-bacterial activities in the septic tanks. If you have any paint left after completing a home improvement project, it is important you dispose it in a hazardous facility.
If you find yourself with a clogged septic system, you’ll need to hire professional septic services to get the situation resolved. However, be sure to keep these tips in mind for the future to prevent further clogs later down the line. Stick to flushing nothing except biodegradable wastes such as paper and human waste. This will keep your septic system functioning properly for years to come.
Meghan Belnap is a freelance writer who enjoys spending time with her family. She loves being outdoors and researching new topics that help to expand her horizons. You can often find her buried in a good book or out looking for an adventure. You can connect with her on Facebook right here and Twitter right here.
