Things You Should Not Put Down the Drain

Your plumbing system is sensitive to clogs. You should not put anything and everything down the drain. This is especially true if you are one of twenty percent of homeowners with a septic system installation. There are plenty of items that can be harmful for the plumbing lines and plenty more that can harm the septic tank as well. This article brought to you by Septic Blue should help clarify the things not to put down the drain and the harm that they can cause. If you are having issues with your septic system, then call Septic Blue to hire a septic specialist for an inspection or repair. We are available 24/7 for emergency septic services.

Solid Waste

The only solid waste that is completely okay to go down the drains is human waste. All other solid waste should be avoided to the best of your ability. Even a garbage disposal installation is not enough, granted it does add an extra layer of protection. Scrap foods, eggshells, and bones all pose clog risks and can overwhelm the “good” bacteria in the septic tank.

Chemicals

The vital bacteria in the septic tank breaks down any solid waste into sludge to save space and postpone your regular septic pumping for as long as possible. Chemical cleaners and anti-bacterial soaps do not differentiate between “good” bacteria and “bad” bacteria. Avoid using bleach, chemical drain cleaners, and other household cleaners that can kill the healthy bacteria in the septic tank. Instead, we suggest more Eco- and septic-friendly cleaners such as castile soap and essential oils.

Fats, Oils, and Greases

Fats, oils, and greases are liquid when hot, but harden as they cool down. Pouring used fats, oils, and greases down the drains are risky for this reason; they can harden in the pipes and cause clogs. Rather than pour these fats, oils, and greases down the drains, you should pour them into a separate container to throw out later. Don’t risk a plumbing headache for a few seconds of convenience.

Too Much Water

While solid waste in the septic tank is broken down into sludge, wastewater readily flows into the drain field where it percolates through the soil for natural treatment. Too much water can overwhelm the system and flood the soil, however. Avoid overloading your septic drain field by practicing water conservation.
If you have the opportunity, consider upgrading your appliances to water-efficient models. Load your washing machines and dish washers fully before running them to avoid water waste by frequently running them. Further, spread out your usage of appliances to avoid overwhelming the system. Do not use the washing machine, dish washer, and shower at the same time, for example.

Call Septic Blue for Emergency Septic Service

Septic issues can arise no matter how careful you are. Luckily, the professionals at Septic Blue are always available to help. Call Septic Blue anytime if you need emergency septic service. Our friendly representatives are ready to take your call.