This is good advice to remember for many types of systems, including our digestion, but it is especially important when it pertains to your septic system. Of course, this is not something that most people wish to talk about, much less dwell on; however, if you are a homeowner with a septic system, you will most assuredly want to monitor what goes into that system.
Unfortunately, people who are used to the convenience of city maintained sewer systems are generally unconcerned about what begins a journey in their home drainage piping. The old adage “out of sight, out of mind,” is definitely applicable here. In most homes with a city sewer system, almost everything seems to be considered “flushable.” Although this should not be the case, it is true that what could safely be disposed of down a sewer system could, eventually, lead to costly repairs and maintenance to your septic system.
The reason for this is, in part, because your septic system, in essence, “sorts” solid waste from liquid waste. The solid waste settles down to the bottom of your septic tank, while the liquid waste is pumped out of the tank into a drainage field. Over time, most of the solid material gets broken down by bacteria; after which, it is also removed to the drainage field. Eventually, though, the remainder of the solid material on the bottom of the tank will build up, requiring a visit by your local septic professional to pump out the septic tank. Therefore, you do not want to flush or pour anything potentially hazardous (like chemicals) or items that are not biodegradable, such as dental floss, feminine hygiene products, diapers, cigarette butts, cat litter, Kleenex, cotton swabs or coffee grounds, condoms and household cleaners, among other things.
