Four Common Little Habits That Are Bad For Your Septic System

If your septic system is properly used and cared for, you should never even notice that it's there, and you should only need to have it pumped out every three years or so. The problem is that many people do not use and care for their systems properly. They engage in common, little habits that they don't even realize are bad for their septic system -- and as a result, they end up with problems  like sewage backups and tank overflows, or find that they need to have their system pumped out often. Do you engage in any of these little habits that are bad for your septic tank?

Bad Habit: Cleaning with a lot of bleach.

Your septic system relies on a population of bacteria to break down the waste so it can slowly rinse out of the tank and into your leech field. Bleach kills these bacteria, causing the breakdown of waste to slow way down. Try to clean with green, all-natural cleaning products, and you'll find that you can go longer between septic pumping appointments.

Bad Habit: Using your garbage disposal (or rinsing food particles down the drain).

Food particles take up a lot of extra tank space and take a long time to break down. The more you use your garbage disposal, or simply wash food scraps down the drain, the faster your tank will fill up and the sooner you'll need to have it pumped. If you cannot resist the urge to use your garbage disposal, shut the electricity off to it so that you can't.

Bad Habit: Buying the wrong toilet paper.

These days, there are so many different kinds of toilet paper on the market. If you're buying a super plush, thick variety thinking that it will be more comfortable to use, then you're just filling up your septic tank prematurely. This variety of paper does not break down well. Leave the plush paper for people who are connected to the sewer system. Look for a brand that is advertised as being "quick to break down" or "septic system safe." Try a few brands until you find one that's comfortable to use, too.

Bad Habit: Flushing feminine hygiene products down the toilet.

The package might say that they're safe to flush, but when you have a septic system, tampons and other feminine hygiene products should be put in the trash. These products take a very long time to break down, and in the meantime, they add bulk to your septic tank, leaving less room for waste and increasing your chances of an overflow.

If you notice that you've developed any of the bad habits above, work towards breaking them today. You'll be glad you did when you no longer have to deal with issues like a backing up septic tank or septic water in the yard. Learn more from a local septic company.

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