Items And Substances That Don’t Belong In Your Septic Tank System

Septic systems naturally treat and process household sewage and wastewater. But they are not invincible. Many homeowners unknowingly introduce materials that disrupt their delicate balance required for effective treatment. This leads to costly septic tank repairs in Fort Worth, TX, along with clogs, system overloads, and even septic tank failure.

What Doesn’t Belong In Your Septic Tanks

Proper care and awareness are essential for keeping your septic tank problem-free. This is easier said than done when it’s easy to forget throwing non-biodegradable items or harsh chemicals in it.

Flushing items like baby wipes, feminine hygiene products, paper towels, and dental floss creates stubborn blockages. Over time, these materials accumulate and damage internal components. They also reduce tank capacity. Repeated misuse of the system leads to the need for a septic tank replacement.

Routine septic services often uncover the effects of improper household habits. Pouring grease or cooking oils down the drain seems harmless, but they solidify and clog pipes, disrupting the flow of wastewater. Excessive use of bleach or antibacterial products soon kills the beneficial bacteria needed to break down solids within the tank.

Protecting Other Parts Of Your Septic Tank System

A well-functioning effluent pump system depends on what enters the tank. Harsh drain cleaners, solvents, and paints corrode pump components. This interferes with the system’s ability to move partially treated water into the leach field. These chemicals also seep into the surrounding soil and harm the environment.

If your system includes a leach field, it’s important to keep it clean and unobstructed. Improper disposal of non-degradable materials leads to the need for leach line repair & replacement. These lines can become clogged with sludge or grease, never meant to be in the system in the first place. Wastewater will soon pool on the surface or back up into your home.

If you have a septic tank system, be mindful of the items that go down your drains at all times. Protect your system with proper use and professional routine cleaning and maintenance. Call the top septic specialists at Straight Shooter Plumbing & Rooter today.