Flushing non-biodegradable materials down toilets and pouring grease down the kitchen sink are two habits that often cause drain clogs. Before you reach for a chemical-based drain cleaner to unclog your drain, think about how the powerful solution will affect your septic system first. Chemicals can disrupt the process of breaking down waste in the septic tank. To remove the blockage without harming your septic system, follow these tips.

3 Strategies to Unclog Drains 

1. Use Baking Soda & Vinegar 

Chemical drain cleaners contain hydrochloric acid and other active ingredients that break apart gunk caked in the drain. The chemicals can also corrode pipes, increasing the risk of leaks. Once the solution reaches the septic tank, it can corrode the lining and kill the enzymes and bacteria needed to break down waste for further treatment. A mixture of baking soda and vinegar can dissolve the clog without the harmful side effects.

2. Try a Plunger

If you have a plunger at home, use it to suction out the obstruction. This is often effective when the clog is relatively minor and located near the drain opening. If plunging doesn’t work, septic service providers can use water-jetting tools and augers to locate and break apart the blockage.

3. Examine the Septic Tank Inlet Baffle 

If wastewater drains slowly, a blockage in the septic tank could be to blame. A septic system specialist can check the inlet baffle for grime buildup. If the inlet is covered in residue, it can’t direct wastewater into the tank. With nowhere to go, it will drain slowly out of sinks, toilets, and bathtubs.

To ensure your clog is completely cleared, contact the professionals at Sanitrol Septic Services in North Branford, CT. Serving residential and commercial clients throughout the state since 1984, the fully insured technicians provide clogged pipe cleaning, jetting services, and additional solutions to protect the integrity of septic systems. For a free estimate, call (203) 315-3202. Visit them online for service details.