Ever wonder what you can do to help your septic system last longer? Of course you haven’t. Honestly, your septic system is something you think about when you actually have a problem. We have assembled a few guidelines that if kept in mind will help your system function properly and last longer without major repairs. Just remember don’t flush these items!
You Can’t Flush Down The Toilet!
Just because you can flush items down your drain, doesn’t mean you should. Basically the rule is only flush human waste and toilet paper and that’s it. Here are a few items that should never be flushed down your toilet.
- Dental Floss
- Cigarette Butts
- Coffee Grounds
- Cat Litter
- Feminine Hygiene Products
- Condoms
- Chemicals like gasoline, solvents, oil, pesticides, antifreeze and paint
- Pharmaceuticals
Need a longer list? Visit this page for a complete list of what not to flush! These items can cause your holding tank to fill up faster, clog up filters and jam up pumps and motors that keep your system running properly.
At Your Sink? Please Think!
The same principal applies to your sink as your toilet. There definitely are items you should never pour down a sink just as you wouldn’t flush down the toilet. Believe it or not, your septic system is alive. Your system is a collection of living organisms that digest and treat household waste and make the water safe for the environment. -Instead of using chemical drain openers, use boiling water or a drain snake
- Cooking oil or grease should never be poured down the drain
- Solvents and paint even latex should be minimized
- Never use a garbage disposal.
Remember what you flush down the toilet, or pour down the sink doesn’t magically disappear. Being responsible and paying attention can help you avoid thousands of dollars in repairs in the future. If you want more tips on maintaining your septic system you should read this article. Martin Septic has decades of local experience servicing, repairing and installing septic solutions. Give us a call if you have any questions and we can help you out.
