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While it’s easy enough to rinse anything down the drain, it’s not always safe for your septic system. The same goes for items that you choose to flush down the toilet. The most effective way to prevent stubborn blockages and potential system backups is to proceed with caution. Make sure that you’re only rinsing and flushing items that are safe to dispose of in those manners. Here are five items that you should avoid sending down those drains.

Avoid Rinsing or Flushing These Items

1. Wipes

septic systemEven wipes that are marked “flushable” aren’t truly safe for your septic system. The only items that are safe to flush are toilet paper and human waste. Other items may not disintegrate properly and might leave behind small bits that never completely exit the system. This can eventually cause a clog that requires a septic service expert to dislodge.

2. Grease

Grease, oil, and fat are often rinsed down the kitchen drain — much to the detriment of your septic system. When these thick fluids flow down, they don’t completely rinse away. Viscous buildup eventually develops on the lines, leading to narrowed pathways and, ultimately, a blockage.

3. Stickers

Adhesive stickers affixed to produce can easily come loose while you’re rinsing fruits and vegetables — or even when you’re cutting peels and toss them into the sink. These stickers aren’t dissolvable and can easily become stuck on the pipe. They can even block filtering screens at water treatment facilities.

4. Eggshells

Eggshells contain many parts that are potentially harmful to septic systems. The hard shell can cause damage to the blades on the disposal; the eggs’ stretchy interior membranes can even wind around the grinding parts. This will affect the unit’s ability to properly grind other items.

5. Medication

Whether medication is crushed or tossed whole, it’s never safe to flush or rinse down the drain. While they won’t necessarily cause problems with the pipes, they can potentially contaminate drinking water supplies and prove harmful to animals and humans. Seek out local disposal facilities instead.

 

If your septic system needs attention, you can trust in the maintenance experts at P & H Construction and Septic Service in Uncasville, CT. For nearly four decades, they’ve provided everything from septic repairs to inspections and replacements. They’ll inspect your drain to determine the source of the problem and provide a solution to restore your home or business plumbing back to normal. Visit them online for details about their septic services, or call them at (860) 848-8507.

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