As you brush your teeth and wash your hair, you probably don’t give a second thought to what is going down the drain. You should be aware of chemicals harmful to drain. Your Atlanta septic system will thank you.
One-fourth of all homes in the United States have septic systems, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Septic systems are more prevalent in rural regions that don’t have a central sewer system.
Keeping up with proper maintenance and thinking smart when it comes to what you put down your drain can help prevent the need to replace your septic system sooner than you need to. Replacement can cost between $3,000 and $7,000.
A septic system works by containing living organisms that digest and take care of the waste. There are some toxins that will destroy those organisms and potentially ruin your system.
When it comes to chemicals harmful to drain, some things to avoid include:
- Liquid drain cleaners. Many of these can be harmful to your pipes and septic system. Instead, when you have a clog, pour hot boiling water down the drain or push a plumbing snake down the drain to clear the blockage.
- Oil-based paints and solvents. These chemicals should be disposed of at a local household disposal waste site.
- The cooking oils and grease you put down your garbage disposal. Those fats and solids that make their way down into your septic system — think bacon grease — can end up clogging the drainfield in your septic system.
- Nail polish and nail polish remover. Never pour either down the drain.
- Motor oils, transmission fluid, and anti-freeze.
- Flammable and explosive materials.
- Prescription and over-the-counter medications.
- Flushing anything other than human waste and toilet paper down the toilet. Anything else can cause your septic system to clog and work less effectively.
If your septic system is malfunctioning, you might be alerted by the foul odor.
Other signs that it might be time to call a plumber or septic professional include:
- You notice your drains are backing up with wastewater.
- You see spongy, vibrant green grass popping up on your drainfield.
- You see squishy, muddy soil in the area of the septic system, or near your basement.
On average, septic systems should be inspected about every three years. They should also be pumped every three to five years. That frequency will be based on the size of your household, how much wastewater your family produces, the amount of solids, and the size of the tank.
For answers to your questions, contact the Pink Plumber today.
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