Septic Tank Maintenance? 4 Chemical Products That Can Damage Your Tank
The quickest way to remove liquid waste in many homes is through the sink drain. However, before you decide to take this route, you may want to think about the overall health of your tank. You need to know that the tank depends on bacteria to help break down waste. So, it's important to be cautious about what you flush, as some products may damage the microscopic organisms, and if they can't perform effectively, the tank will clog and overflow. Check out the products to avoid.
Dishwasher and Laundry Detergent
Many people use soap when cleaning, which is perfectly fine. However, switching to laundry or dishwashing detergent with abrasive ingredients isn't recommended. Most contain contaminants such as phosphates that can contaminate drinking water when entering the drainfield. When using detergents, go for products labeled as eco-friendly or natural.
Using Chlorine During Cleaning
It's advisable to avoid using bleach during your cleaning because of its antibacterial property. When bleach is used frequently, it can damage the beneficial bacteria in the tank. How you use the cleaner will significantly impact whether it can affect your tank. For instance, cleaning a rag containing bleach using a washing machine may not cause any problems compared to pouring a cupful every day when cleaning the toilet.
Using Drain Cleaners to Eliminate Clogs
Drain cleaners are chemical products that help break down a clog in drain lines. This makes the chemicals highly toxic and more corrosive than household detergents. So, they can do great damage to the useful bacteria inside your tank. Regular use can also cause damage to the drain pipe, and you may have to replace them sooner than you expect. If possible, consider using enzyme-based cleaners or call a professional to help with cleaning.
Frequent Use of Antibacterial Soap
For the effective operation of your septic tank, it is advisable to cut down on antibacterial soaps. There are plenty of good bacteria in your tank responsible for breaking down waste, and too much antibacterial soap can affect their performance which will, in turn, affect the health of your tank.
If you have a septic tank in your home, you probably don't know what you should or shouldn't put in your drains. There are many good cleaning products that you can use at home that will not cause damage to your tank. This guide shares some of the products you should avoid. If you are unsure about your cleaning products or septic tank maintenance, consult a septic tank professional.