Whether you have an on-site septic tank or a public sewer line connection, it is crucial to know what not to flush down the toilet or dispose of in the drains for waste management systems to function effectively. These systems are designed to handle human waste and toilet paper; as biodegradable materials can break down easily. However, dumping everything down the toilet or dishwasher can cause serious damage that is expensive to fix. As a reputable septic company, Greensboro Septic Pros can provide pertinent information and advice to help you maintain a safe, efficient, and reliable unit for years to come. Let’s delve into the items you should not flush to avoid devastating scenarios.
Drain Cleaners and Other Chemicals
While store-bought cleaners might offer temporary relief, they contain harsh chemicals that can cause further damage and costly restorations. If you experience recurring slow drains, backups, or foul odors, call a professional septic service for maintenance. Additionally, flushing liquid drain cleaners or antibacterial cleaners can harm beneficial bacteria and contaminate the environment. With this in mind, disposing of chemicals safely and using environmentally friendly products can prevent such hazards and enhance system performance.
Flushable Wipes
Manufacturers often label products “flushable” to encourage buyers. Manufacturers often label products "flushable" to encourage buyers; however, these items, typically wet wipes, are non-biodegradable and take longer to break down. If you frequently flush cotton wipes down the toilet, they will form a stubborn clog and cause serious plumbing problems. Besides being cautious about what enters your system, investing in routine septic cleaning and maintenance services is crucial. Professionals can identify hidden signs of deterioration and prevent minor issues from escalating into major problems.
Grease, Fat, and Oil
Dumping greasy dishes in the washer or rinsing oily utensils in the sink is not a good idea. Over time, accumulated fats in your drain and sewer pipes can obstruct wastewater flow, causing backups and other hazards. Instead of disposing of these substances down your drains, pour them into a jar where they can solidify and then throw them in the garbage. In addition, wipe your pans with a paper towel to ensure they are grease-free before rinsing in the sink. Although the impact may not be instant, disposing of fats or grease can cause frequent septic pumping and repair emergencies.
Cat Litter
Pets are not just furry companions but also part of the family. If you have a cat at home or workplace, do not flush litter down the drain or toilet. Unlike human waste, which breaks down in the tank, cat litter expands when wet, making it a potential risk. The last thing you want is to call a septic company at night for emergency repairs. Whether it is flushable or biodegradable cat litter, the risk to your wastewater treatment system is not worth it.
Medications
A common practice in households is disposing of old, expired, or unused medication down the drain. Although this option may seem harmless and straightforward, the impact it has on your septic system can be devastating. These substances not only clog but also corrode the system, causing more expensive problems to resolve. The best way to avoid these issues is to dispose of medications properly by dumping them in the trash. If you frequently flush pills down the toilet, consider professional septic cleaning to prevent further damage.
When to Call a Septic Service Provider
Misinformation often causes improper waste disposal. With that said, consult a professional technician and schedule routine maintenance inspections to maintain optimal functionality and efficiency. This also allows you to ask questions about septic care, ensuring you make informed decisions. Contact Greensboro Septic Pros to book an appointment with our experts and access quality services, including septic pumping, at competitive rates.
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