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When you own a septic tank, you need to carefully monitor what goes down the drains, especially when using a garbage disposal unit. Anything poured down the drain ends up in the septic tank, where it can interfere with the bacteria that process the wastewater in your septic system. Following these garbage disposal tips in addition to regular septic tank pumping can help you avoid unnecessary repairs.

Do:

Use cold water when you turn on the disposal.

Cold water helps fats and grease solidify, so the blades of your garbage disposal can grind them up. Running cold water when you turn on the unit also helps clean out the lines.

Start a compost for peelings & spoiled food.

Much of the food put down garbage disposal units would be better suited to a compost pile. Disposing of organic matter in septic tanks can overload their bacteria, but placing it in a compost pile will create rich soil for gardening in an eco-friendly manner.

Don’t:

Treat your garbage disposal like a trashcan.

septic tank pumpingMany people use garbage disposal units to dispose of both organic and non-organic materials. However, you should avoid putting paper, coffee grounds, cigarette butts, and other trash down your drains, which will clog pipes and harm the septic bacteria. For similar reasons, cut up large pieces of food before you dispose of them.

Don’t overuse your disposal unit.

The more you use your garbage disposal, the more often you will need septic tank pumping to clean out the system. Heavy use causes food to gather under the inlet pipe of the tank, where it will sit until removed.

 

Big Island residents who need septic tank pumping rely on the specialists at Sewer Solutions in Hilo, HI, for quality service. Along with 24-hour emergency service, their team provides cesspool pumping, septic tank pumping, and lift station cleaning and repair. Call (808) 430-2323 to schedule an appointment today, and learn more about their services online.

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