List Of Things Not To Put In Your Septic Tank: Do’s And Dont’s

Septic systems are vital for treating and disposing waste in homes not connected to municipal sewage lines.

However, improper maintenance and misuse can lead to significant problems. 

Homeowners must understand things you shouldn't put in a septic tank to avoid costly repairs and environmental damage.

The system's heart is the concrete septic tank, designed to break down solids and discharge effluent. When the wrong items enter the system, they can clog or damage it. 

This includes everyday substances like milk, which might seem harmless but can disrupt the tank's delicate balance.

Adhering to septic tank rules is about avoiding what harms it and enhancing its efficiency. 

Why It's Important To Maintain A Healthy Septic Tank?

Septic tank management is essential to avoid expensive repairs and preserve your property's environment.

A sound septic system disposes wastewater, preventing it from polluting the surrounding soil and water well. 

Cleaning, for instance, pumping, and inspection would reduce the likelihood of blockage that may compromise the integrity of your home plumbing system. It also helps to lengthen the system's longevity to help save your money in the future.

Caring for your septic system means that your compound becomes safer with minimum exposure of people to the sewerage waste.

What Not To Put In A Septic Tank? 

To maintain a healthy septic system, it's essential to be mindful of what goes into it. Certain items and substances can significantly impair the performance of your septic tank, leading to clogs, damage, or environmental harm.

Here's a list of items you should and should not flush when you have a septic system:

• Non-Biodegradable Materials: Items like plastic, diapers, sanitary napkins, cigarette butts, and wipes (even those labeled "flushable") don't break down and can clog the system.

• Chemicals: Household chemicals like paint, solvents, insecticides, oils, and antifreeze can destroy the beneficial bacteria in the tank and contaminate groundwater.

• Grease And Fats: Cooking grease and oils solidify inside the tank, causing blockages in the pipes and the drain field.

• Pharmaceuticals: Prescription medications, especially antibiotics, can kill the bacteria that the septic system relies on to break down waste.

• Excessive Household Cleaners: While normal amounts of household detergents and cleaners are generally safe, overuse can disrupt the bacterial balance in the tank.

• Coffee Grounds And Food Scraps: These do not decompose quickly and add to the solid waste that needs to be pumped out.

• Cat Litter: It's often made of clay and silica that can clog the system.

• Paper Products Other Than Toilet Paper: Paper towels, facial tissues, and other heavier paper products don't break down quickly.

• Cigarette Butts: These contain toxins and don't break down, leading to pollution and blockages.

• Putting Milk In Septic Tank: Milk and dairy products can upset the balance of bacteria, impairing the system's ability to break down waste.

Septic Tank Do’s	Septic Tanks Don’ts
Do have your septic tank inspected regularly.	Don’t pour grease, oil, or fat down drains.
Do pump out your septic tank every 3-5 years.	Don’t flush non-biodegradable items like wipes, feminine products, or diapers.
Do conserve water to reduce strain on the system.	Don’t use excessive amounts of chemical cleaners that can harm bacteria.
Do plant only grass over the drain field.	Don’t plant trees or shrubs near the septic area, as roots can damage pipes.
Do repair leaks and drips promptly.	Don’t drive or park over the septic system.
Do dispose of waste properly and avoid flushing medications.	Don’t install garbage disposals without checking capacity requirements.

List Of Cleaning Products Safe For Septic Systems

Using septic safe cleaning products is crucial for maintaining a well-functioning system. Here are some recommended options:

• Borax: A natural mineral, borax is a gentle septic tank cleaning agent that is safe for laundry and effective in general household cleaning.

• Baking Soda: Baking soda is an excellent non-toxic cleaner. It can be used to scrub surfaces and also helps maintain the pH balance in the septic tank.

• Vinegar: Vinegar, mainly white vinegar, is safe for septic systems. It's a versatile cleaner that is effective for deodorizing and removing stains and mildew.

• Lemon Juice: Like vinegar, lemon juice is safe for septic tanks and can be used for various cleaning tasks due to its natural acidity.

• Toilet Cleaners Safe For Septic Systems: Look for toilet cleaners labeled as septic-safe. These products are formulated to be effective without containing harsh drain chemicals that can harm the bacterial balance.

• Septic Safe Bathroom Cleaners: Choose bathroom cleaners labeled as safe for septic systems. These are usually free from bleach and other harsh chemicals.

• Earthwise Dishwasher Tablets: These environmentally friendly tablets are safe for septic systems and an excellent choice for cleaning dishes.

• Liquid Dish Soap: Opt for biodegradable and phosphate-free liquid dish soaps. They are gentler on the septic system compared to traditional soaps.

• Laundry Detergents: Use liquid laundry detergents labeled as biodegradable and septic-safe. Powdered detergents can clump and cause clogs.

• Yeast: Regularly putting yeast in the septic tank can help maintain the bacterial balance. Yeast helps break down starches, which aids the tank's natural process.

• Salt In Septic Tank To Kill Roots: If roots are a problem, some septic professionals recommend using copper sulfate or rock salt to discourage root growth in pipes, but use this method cautiously as it can also harm beneficial bacteria.

Is Vinegar Safe For Septic Systems? 

Yes, vinegar is safe for septic systems. Being a natural, non-toxic substance, it does not harm the bacteria essential for breaking down waste in the septic tank. 

Vinegar is a practical, eco-friendly cleaning alternative for various household tasks without damaging your septic system. Its acidic nature helps clean and deodorize without disrupting the septic tank's balance.

How Professional Septic Tank Services Help With Effective Septic Cleaning?  

Professional septic system service plays a crucial role in effective septic cleaning. Experts in this field use specialized equipment and techniques to thoroughly clean and inspect septic tanks, ensuring they function optimally. 

Their experience and knowledge allow them to identify and address potential issues before they become significant problems.

Regular servicing by professionals can significantly extend the life of your septic system and prevent costly repairs.

What Can You Put In A Septic Tank To Break Down Solids? 

Using a septic tank sludge dissolver effectively breaks down solids in a septic tank. These products are specially formulated to accelerate the decomposition of solid waste. 

They contain natural bacteria and enzymes that digest organic matter, reducing sludge buildup. 

Choosing a sludge dissolver designed explicitly for septic systems is essential to ensure it enhances the natural process without harming the tank's balance. 

Regularly maintaining and carefully using these products can keep your septic system functioning efficiently.

Conclusion

Understanding the dos and don'ts of septic tank maintenance is key to ensuring a long-lasting and efficient system.

Remember, what you put into your septic tank greatly influences its health and functionality. 

Adhering to the guidelines on things you shouldn't put in a septic tank, choosing the right septic-safe cleaning products, and knowing how to break down solids effectively are all crucial steps in responsible septic system management.

Following these simple yet crucial septic tank dos and don’ts can avoid common pitfalls and ensure your system remains in top condition.

For more detailed guidance or specific queries about your septic system, don't hesitate to reach Barnes Sewer & Septic.

If you have any septic system concerns or questions, contact us at (765) 584-7295. Let us help you keep your septic system running smoothly and efficiently.