Septic systems are designed to safely and efficiently dispose of waste, but they should not be treated as an all-use trash can. Putting the wrong substances in your system can cause costly damage and unpleasant consequences like sewage backups through your drains. Never put any of the harmful items below down into your septic tank.

What to Keep Out of Septic Systems

1. Excessive Water

Water makes its way into your septic system every day when you turn on water-using appliances or any of your faucets. Your system is designed to safely send these liquids out to your drain field. However, too much water disrupts the balance in your septic tank, flooding the system. Do not hook up any rainwater drainage systems to your tank, and fix water-wasting issues like constantly running toilets promptly.

2. Sanitary Products

Contrary to popular belief, items like tampons cannot be flushed. Sanitary products expand as they absorb water, so they can clog your plumbing. Dispose of these in the trash and never flush them down the toilet.

3. Harsh Chemicals

Harsh chemicals kill the helpful bacteria that reside in your tank and break down waste. Do not pour hazardous materials like paint, gasoline, motor oil or bleach down the drain. These are unsafe for the environment as well, so see that they are disposed of properly.

4. Antibacterial Cleaners

Just as harsh chemicals kill your tank’s bacteria, so do antibacterial cleaners. Use organic cleaning products for sinks, tubs, and toilets. If you must use antibacterial cleaners, avoid washing too much of it down the drain.

5. Grease or Fat

Grease and fat should not be sent into any plumbing system. They congeal inside the plumbing and can clog it. If they make it all the way to your septic tank, they can clog up the perforated holes in your drain field, which will stop the wastewater from percolating into the soil.

Garrison Septic Service Inc. has worked on the septic systems of central and northern Wisconsin since 1939. Their full range of services includes septic tank installation, routine pumping service, maintenance, inspections, drain cleaning, and soil testing. Their dependable care will maximize the longevity and integrity of your system. Contact them online or at (715) 325-7282 to talk with a licensed plumber about your system today!