The key to maintain a functioning septic system is to help it do its job in the most efficient way possible.
The key to maintain a functioning septic system is to help it do its job in the most efficient way possible. Just like other working components in your home, your system requires your attention and maintenance. Keep these seven items out of your system for better and longer performance.
Paper
Of course, toilet paper can be flushed and is designed to be safe in your septic system. However, other types of paper can be a nightmare to your system. Other products that we use in the bathroom are not designed to be flushed. These include sanitary napkins, diapers, or even baby wipes.
Grease
When grease solidifies, it causes damaging blockages. It will clog your pipes and build up in the septic tank. Be sure to dispose of grease in the garbage instead of pouring it down the drain.
Cat Litter
Cat litter doesn’t completely breakdown and can be detrimental to your septic tank system. Although some brands say that the litter is flushable, it’s best not to risk it. Like grease, cat litter will cause clogs and build up in the system.
Hazardous Chemicals
Chemicals including bleach, motor oil, and other hazardous products do not belong in your septic system. Good bacteria help to break down waste and chemicals like these could kill the bacteria, causing your system not to function the way that it should.
Certain Food Scraps
Now that many kitchens come equipped with garbage disposals, a lot of people have started getting rid of all their food scraps by tossing them down the drain. However, certain scraps like fruit and vegetable peels, bones, and meat don’t break down in the system and will cause build up and clogging.
Additives
There are a few different additive products on the market that supposedly extend the life of the septic system. Most of these products don’t actually impact the function of your system in any impactful way.
Laundry
When doing your laundry, it’s best for your septic system to spread out your laundry over a few days or wash full loads. Laundry puts a lot of stress on the system and frequent use strains the drain field lines.
ALL OF YOUR PLUMBING NEEDS FROM ALPHA PLUMBING
Alpha Plumbing is a full-service plumbing and contracting company serving the Baltimore and Annapolis metro area with expertise in all aspects of plumbing. We’re family-owned and operated since 1991 from our office in Pasadena. We offer quality plumbing services at reasonable rates in a timely fashion. Our trucks are equipped with GPS systems to ensure we’re prompt and on time. No job is too large or too small! We maintain a fleet of well-stocked trucks and also own and operate our own backhoes for jobs requiring excavation.
For more information and to get a free no-obligation estimate, you can contact us on our website, send us an e-mail, or give us a call at (410) 255-5998.