Septic systems provide an excellent way to treat residential waste material, and they protect nearby water sources by filtering out harmful bacteria. However, letting certain household items go down the drain could jeopardize your system. Avoid accidental damage by becoming familiar with the top products that are best left for the trash.

4 Items That Can Damage Your Septic System

1. Paper Products

Toilet paper is made to dissolve shortly after soaking in water, which helps to reduce the potential for clogs. However, paper products such as sanitary items, paper towels, and baby wipes are slightly thicker and can catch along the curves of your pipes. Neglecting to throw them in the trash could create a need for premature septic tank pumping.

2. Medications

While they’re small enough to fit down the drain, you should never flush leftover medication. They might contain ingredients that could cause a bacterial imbalance within the tank and allow harmful waste to pass through to the drain field. Locate a drug take-back site or program in your area to ensure proper disposal, or dispose of them in the trash.

3. Food Scraps

Garbage disposals aren’t meant to handle every bit of leftover food. Grease, coffee grounds, and fibrous vegetable scraps tend to accumulate within the pipes and damage the system. Choosing to only dispose of foods that are naturally biodegradable, such as cooked meat, fruit scraps, and citrus rinds, is the easiest way to preserve the integrity of your septic system.

4. Cleaning Chemicals

Even though cleaning products are effective in removing harmful bacteria from the house, they can have detrimental effects on the septic system. Any chemicals that enter the tank will kill off the good bacteria and prevent the waste from naturally breaking down, increasing the potential for overflow. Switching over to environmentally friendly products is the best way to avoid an issue.

Maintain the efficiency of your septic system by working with Sanitrol Septic Services of North Branford, CT. This family-owned company has supplied quality septic services for over 35 years and is recognized for its honesty and dependability. Their team members are fully insured and undergo continual training, utilizing state-of-the-art equipment for every job. They also offer 24/7 emergency service to prevent issues from getting out of hand. Learn more about the company’s qualifications by visiting their website. Call (203) 315-3202 to request a free estimate.