Your septic system is designed to handle solid waste, but that doesn’t mean you can flush anything down the toilet without consequences. Quite a few items can damage it by causing clogs and other issues, so take a close look at the following facts. Below is a list of household items that should never be tossed down the drain or flushed down the toilet. 

3 Items You Shouldn’t Introduce into Your Septic System

1. Fats, Oils & Grease

When cooking with fat, oil, or grease, it’s important to dispose of these substances properly. Pouring them down the drain or toilet may create clogs that eventually lead to a sewage backup. To avoid this, let fats, oils, and grease cool in a disposable container and place it in a trash bin. 

2. Household Chemicals 

Harmful chemicals can pollute the groundwater in your area if they leak out of your septic tank. Items like paint, kerosene, antifreeze, pesticides, and even expired medication can kill bacteria in your system that break down solid waste. Luckily, hazardous dumps are designed to deal with such chemicals, so contact your local waste disposal company to find the closest location.

3. Bathroom Trash 

Non-biodegradable items such as plastic, cigarette butts, and feminine products should never be flushed down the toilet, as they can create serious clogs. Also, avoid disposing of items like balls of hair from the drain, as they can latch on to the sides of piping and create sludge and buildup. A general rule of thumb is to throw away anything that isn’t toilet paper.

By minimizing the amount of hazardous material you introduce into your septic system, you can drastically extend its life span. If you have a septic repair issue, Martin’s Septic Service in Eatonton, GA, will be happy to help you find an affordable solution. With more than 15 years of service in the Lake Country area, they’ve developed a reputation for providing outstanding services and reliable customer care. To learn more about what they have to offer, call them today at (478) 452-8272, or visit their website for a complete list of services.