Septic systems require a delicate balance to maintain, requiring you to limit the items that you put down the drain. In addition, many substances are difficult or impossible for a septic system to handle, causing unnecessary septic failures and other problems. While most people with a septic system know that they need to keep non-biodegradable items out of their septic, there are a few other items that often still find their way down the drain or flushed down the toilet. Here is a reminder list of three items that should never enter your septic system.
- F.O.G. Three big culprits that end up down the kitchen sink are fats, oils and grease, or FOG. These can wreak havoc on your septic system and your wallet. Before rinsing plates or pans in the sink, scrape out any fat, oil or grease into a metal can or the garbage, then wipe out any extra grease.
- Chemicals. We use many chemicals around the house to clean and disinfect. Make sure that you limit the amount of these chemicals that go down the drain. For chemicals used in toilets, showers, sinks and washing machines, try to choose natural or biodegradable products whenever possible.
- Non-flushables. For some reason, the toilet can be where many items get tossed when they have no business going down any drain. Be careful to keep items like as cotton swabs and female hygiene items out of the toilet.
Just remember that whatever goes down the drain will impact your septic system, especially items that will not break down. Chemicals and toxic materials can upset the pH balance of your septic tank, while other items can clog your system or create the need for more frequent septic tank pumping. By keeping a close eye on what goes down the drain, you can save your hard-earned money and peace of mind.
Posted on behalf of Tony McAdams, A-1 National Sewer and Drain
