Septic systems may seem relatively simple, but they depend on delicately balanced bacteria levels to process solid waste and water. Flushing certain items down the drains or using harsh cleaning agents can disrupt the entire system, leading to clogged pipes, waterlogged drain fields, and sewage backing up into your building. Keep the following items out of the drains to help ensure the system keeps running smoothly.

What Should Never Go in Your Septic Tank

1. Solid Items

Septic tanks are only intended to process solid waste, water, and toilet paper. Anything else will only take up space in the tank or get caught in the baffles or intake pipes.

Don’t flush cotton balls, feminine hygiene products, cigarette butts, or other solid objects down the drain. Even paper towels, which don’t disintegrate in water, can cause issues, so always throw them in the trash.

2. Grease

Cooking grease doesn’t break down in the system, so it often causes clogged pipes. Restaurants and other food-service businesses should have grease traps that capture these materials before they get into the septic tank. If you allow guests or employees to cook for themselves, make sure they know to pour grease into a container and throw it in the garbage later.

3. Harsh Cleaning Products

Many common cleaning products can kill off the beneficial bacteria in your septic tank, making it impossible to process waste quickly. Homes and businesses with on-site septic systems should avoid using any cleaners with bleach, ammonia, or phosphates as well as over-the-counter drain cleaning products.

If you run into trouble with your septic system, trust the contractors at B Sales Trucking, Excavation, Pumping & Plumbing Services in Makawao, HI. The locally owned and operated company provides Maui customers with septic tank pumping and maintenance. Visit their website for more information on their services, or call (808) 264-3281 to request a free estimate today.