Can you put toilet paper in a septic tank?
- If you have a septic tank as part of your home’s waste management system, you may be concerned about putting toilet paper in it. What effect does toilet paper have on your septic tank, and what should you do about it?
Will vinegar dissolve toilet paper?
Does Vinegar Break Down Toilet Paper? While not typically the first thing you think of when you have a clogged toilet, some have had great success unclogging toilets using hot water, baking soda, and vinegar.
How long does it take for toilet paper to dissolve in septic?
Your toilet paper should dissolve in twenty minutes or less. If it doesn’t, you may want to consider buying a different brand of toilet paper that’s better for your plumbing system.
Do enzymes break down toilet paper?
Enzyme products work by breaking up large chunks of solid waste (poop and toilet paper) inside your black water holding tank into smaller pieces, preventing clogs and backups.
What does baking soda do to a septic tank?
Will baking soda hurt a septic system? Baking soda and other common household solutions such as vinegar are not harmful to your septic system. Harsh chemicals such as bleach and ammonia can disrupt the good bacteria in your septic tank and should not be used as part of a septic treatment.
What breaks down toilet paper in septic tanks?
Best Septic Tank Maintenance Product A great product is Septic Blast, which will eliminate the organic matter inside your tank. It contains beneficial enzymes that will break down toilet paper, hair and more without damaging your pipes or your septic system.
What chemical will dissolve toilet paper?
Solution 2: Use Chemical Additive RID-X is one of the most efficient items because it dissolves toilet paper, grease, and waste that clogs the sewer line or septic systems. Besides that, the process can’t be simpler — you only need to pour RID—X into the toilet bowl and activate the flush system.
Is Dawn dish soap safe for septic systems?
One of the best know is commercials for Dawn dish soap. The ability for the cleaner to disperse oil and grease is better for cleaning, as it helps to break it up. The reason these are bad for septic systems is because if you use too much they can leach out into the environment without being properly treated.
Does toilet paper decompose in septic tank?
All toilet paper will eventually break down inside your septic tank, but biodegradable types will require less water to break down and will dissolve much faster, making it a good choice for use with a septic system.
Does poop dissolve in septic tank?
Solid waste (a.k.a., poop) can build up, break down, fuse and create a mass that does some really bad things to your septic system. Here is what you can do, both prevention and repair-wise, with regards to solid waste becoming too solid in your septic tank.
What is the best thing to put in your septic tank?
Biological Additives. Biological additives, like bacteria and extracellular enzymes, are the only acceptable septic tank treatment for promoting a healthy, natural bacterial ecosystem, maintaining an effective drain field, and protecting the health of the local groundwater.
What does Ridex do for a septic tank?
RID-X® contains cellulase enzymes, the only enzyme that can digest paper. Breaks down grease. RID-X® is designed to attack grease in your septic tank, breaking it down to slow the accumulation of the greasy scum layer, which, if left unchecked, can compromise the function of your septic system.
Is beer good for septic tanks?
Do not flush meat, buttermilk, yeast, vegetables, beer etc. down your drain to “Feed” your septic system. This will kill the good bacteria in your septic system.
Does yeast help your septic tank?
Yeast helps actively breaks down waste solids when added to your septic system. Flush ½ cup of dry baking yeast down the toilet, the first time. Add ¼ cup of instant yeast every 4 months, after the initial addition.
Can you use hydrogen peroxide in a septic system?
There are many natural options for say, disinfectants, that exist which will not harm a septic system. For some of the stronger natural disinfectants such as Hydrogen Peroxide and Thyme Oil, their strength will still require them to be diluted with water before being introduced to the system. 3
How can I increase bacteria in my septic tank naturally?
Homemade Septic Tank Treatment The ingredients required for this natural solution are the following: Water, Sugar, Cornmeal, and Dry Yeast. To concoct this mixture, first start by boiling roughly a half gallon of water. Add in 2 cups of sugar. The sugar will act as the first food your bacteria will eat!
AVOID PAPER PROBLEMS IN YOUR SEPTIC SYSTEM
Septic systems provide a safe means to dispose of waste for homeowners who live in locations without access to a municipal sewage system. If you have a septic system, you are surely aware that there are a variety of items that should not be flushed down the toilet. All of the following items: cat litter, dental floss, and antibacterial cleaning products can all cause harm to your septic system with continued use. The majority of homeowners believe that paper goods are safe to dispose of in a septic system when it comes to paper products.
You may avoid the dangers of paper products in your septic system by not flushing typical clog-causing materials down your toilet or sink drains.
Toilet paper is classified as a solid in your septic tank, and it is disposed of accordingly.
Despite the fact that the beneficial bacteria in your septic tank can assist to minimize sludge over time, you should still have your tank pumped on a regular basis to avoid the sludge layer from growing too thick and blocking your drains.
- Using this method, you can simply lengthen the amount of time between pump-outs while also preventing huge bits of toilet paper from being lodged in your septic system.
- Instead, look for toilet paper that has been labeled as “septic-safe” or “recycled.” Toilet paper that is septic-safe has been thoroughly tested and proved to degrade swiftly.
- Additionally, recycled toilet paper has short strands that break apart quickly, reducing the likelihood of clogging.
- Many people consider facial tissues to be of the same caliber as toilet paper, and they are correct.
- The unfortunate reality is that flushing face tissue into your septic system may put your system at danger.
- In truth, facial tissue is engineered to be tough enough to withstand the moisture and pressure that is generated when you blow your nose without splitting or breaking apart.
- The trapped tissue can capture other materials that are traveling through your drain pipes, resulting in a clog that totally limits the passage of waste and wastewater that is moving through your septic system and into the environment.
- When a large amount of facial tissue is flushed down your drains, you may discover that solid waste is being pushed into your drainfield or that the baffles in your septic tank are not operating correctly.
- It is critical that you use caution while flushing any form of paper product down your toilet or down your sink drain.
Contact Upstate Septic Tank, LLC if you suspect that you have flushed potentially hazardous papers into your septic system. We can assist you in removing the paper issues and restoring the performance and efficiency of your septic system.
How To Dissolve Toilet Paper In A Septic Tank – Simple Clean Home
A septic tank may be a wonderful addition to your property, but understanding how to properly dispose of toilet paper in it can be difficult to master. It doesn’t matter if we’re dealing with something so minor and insignificant; if we don’t get it resolved quickly, it might turn into a problem. With time, the septic tank will begin to have difficulties. That’s why it’s important to understand how to dissolve toilet paper in a septic tank properly. This will save you a lot of time and aggravation in the future.
- Using the proper septic tank maintenance products will save you money, time, and aggravation in the future.
- It’s the only thing you need to know.
- Then, you may assist the process by purchasing toilet paper that is easily decomposable, such as biodegradable or septic safe toilet paper.
- In order to understand how to dissolve toilet paper in a septic tank, make sure to read everything carefully and pay attention to the crucial elements.
- If you get this one correct, you’ll be all set to go.
Biodegradable Toilet Paper Works Well For Septic Tanks
As previously stated, biodegradable toilet paper is an excellent choice for septic tanks. Because it dissolves in the toilet tank, this sort of toilet paper is quite effective. Even so, you’ll need to keep up with the upkeep by using enzymes and live bacteria. The modification in the type of toilet paper that you use is just for the purpose of assisting the entire process of disintegrating the toilet paper. For the sake of summarizing, the first step is to make your life simpler before moving on to step one.
- Even if you apply chemicals to hasten the decomposition of the biodegradable toilet paper, the paper will disintegrate more quickly.
- Consequently, be sure to give biodegradable toilet paper some thought.
- It is recommended that you use Seventh Generation White Toilet Paper since it is the most effective alternative available.
- Make sure to check out the book on Amazon by clicking here.
You Can Use Septic Safe Toilet Paper
If you use septic-safe toilet paper, the paper will degrade more quickly. This is the sort of toilet paper that is guaranteed to either disintegrate more quickly or at the very least not clog the water passageway in the tank or bowl. The reason you want to use this sort of toilet paper is that it is designed to not clog the water flow in your septic tank, which is important. It’s one of the most effective remedies you’ll come across. What you’re going to do is start using this sort of toilet paper and do routine maintenance on your toilets as usual.
While it is vital to avoid using standard toilet paper if you want it to entirely dissolve in the tank, it is also important to avoid doing so.
Keep in mind that upkeep is more vital than installation. Nonetheless, be sure to experiment with this sort of toilet paper. In this case, the Scott Essential Professional is the most appropriate option for you. You may get one from Amazon by clicking here.
Recycled Toilet Paper Is A Good Option
It will disintegrate more quickly if you use septic-safe toilet paper. Toilet paper that is guaranteed to either disintegrate more quickly or at the very least not clog the tank’s water route is what we’re talking about here! When you use this sort of toilet paper, you will not have to worry about it blocking the water path to your septic tank. It’s one of the most effective remedies available. Your plan is to begin using this sort of toilet paper and do regular maintenance on your toilet. Maintaining your septic tank is obviously more vital than using the proper sort of toilet paper, which is self-explanatory.
In order to avoid this, make sure that you think about switching to septic toilet paper from the regular kind.
Make sure you experiment with this particular kind of toilet paper.
Click here to order yours directly from Amazon.
The Enzyme Pac Has To Be Up To Date
After much discussion, it’s time to address the topic of maintenance, which has been referenced several times throughout this text. Following a thorough understanding of the importance of septic tank care, you’ll have fewer difficulties with your system. If you do this correctly, the toilet paper will disintegrate in the tank, which is what you are attempting to do. The first thing you need do is check to see if the enzyme pack is up to date, which you should do right away. It is really simple to accomplish this.
- It is only necessary to perform this task a few times during the year.
- As a result, make certain that the enzyme pack is current.
- Although using the proper sort of toilet paper is beneficial, it is this that truly dissolves it.
- Check it out on Amazon by clicking here.
Live Bacteria Packets Increase The Speed That The Paper Dissolves
Another thing that you can do to assist with septic tank maintenance is to use live bacteria packets to boost the pace at which paper dissolves as well as the rate at which everything else dissolves. This is another another item that can be discarded in conjunction with the enzyme. It’ll make certain that everything within the tank is able to break it down. What you must remember is that you must remember to do this every few months, which is something you must remember to do. In other cases, depending on the size of your septic tank and your habits, you may only need to do it once a month.
The most significant aspect of this job is maintenance.
As a result, make certain that you obtain live bacterium packages.
It is recommended that you use the Septic Tank – Dissolvable Live Bacteria for this product. To see the cost on Amazon, please visit this page.
Experiment With Different Treatments For The Tank
If you want to ensure that the toilet paper and other items disintegrate inside the tank, you must make sure that the septic tank maintenance is up to date. You may also try out different treatments for the tank to see what works best. You can experiment with different types of drugs to see whether your issues are resolved. In many cases, when you’re experiencing difficulties with something clogging a route, the problem is caused by the substances that you’re employing. They are not very effective in dissolving things, which causes you troubles.
Experiment with several treatments to see which ones are most effective in your home.
Consequently, make sure to try with several therapies until you find the one that works best for your particular situation.
In most cases, the advice given above is sufficient.
Check Every Few Months To Make Sure Things Are Flushing Correctly
The final piece of advice is to check every few months to ensure that everything is flushing properly. The reason why this advice is so significant is that it is not taken as seriously as it should be by most people. Septic tanks are basically something people forget about until something goes wrong or a leak occurs in one of them. It is your responsibility to maintain the septic tank. This entails not only introducing the enzymes and bacteria, but also monitoring the situation to ensure that everything is functioning properly.
As a result, make certain that you inspect your septic tank and that you perform the necessary maintenance, as has been described several times in this text.
It’s also the most effective method of ensuring the long-term longevity of your septic tank.
Final Thoughts
Final recommendation: check every few months to ensure that everything is flushing properly. Because individuals do not take this advice as seriously as they should, it is really vital. Septic tanks are basically something people forget about until something goes wrong or a leak occurs in their system. Maintaining the septic tank is your responsibility. This includes not only introducing the enzymes and bacteria, but also monitoring the situation to ensure that everything is functioning properly.
In order to avoid this, make sure that you inspect your septic tank and do the necessary maintenance, as described several times in this text.
Besides that, it is the most effective method of ensuring the long-term performance of your septic system.
Maintain Your Septic System Naturally
On December 5, 2020, the information was updated. However, while this isn’t an enjoyable topic for polite discussion, having your septic system back up into your home is far from pleasant.
There are actions that you can do to not only avoid septic issues in the future, but also to guarantee that the process of breaking down flushed waste proceeds as it should.
A Well-Functioning Septic System
The title of this article may be “The Care and Maintenance of the Gut in Your Yard,” which would be more descriptive. Understanding the necessity and advantages of eating dietary fiber, alkaline-forming foods, and taking probiotics for your own gut health will help you recognize the similarities between keeping a healthy septic system and maintaining a healthy digestive system. There are some items that you should avoid putting into any septic system, just as there are certain substances that are favorable to putting into our own digestive systems.
If you wait until there is a problem, you have waited too long and should contact a septic cleaning firm to pump your tank immediately.
Septic System Care and Maintenance Tips:
- A family of four living in a house with a 1,000-gallon tank should have their septic system cleaned every four years, according to the EPA. Inquire with your local septic cleaning firm about how frequently you should contact them
- Avoid using bleach-containing solutions to clean your toilets since it kills the bacteria that are necessary for the breakdown of waste particles in your septic system. Try this all-natural toilet cleanser
- It works great.
- An average family of four that lives in a 1,000 gallon tank should have their septic system cleaned every four years. Inform yourself on how frequently you should contact your local septic cleaning firm
- Avoid using bleach-based toilet cleaning products since they kill the microorganisms that are necessary for the breakdown of waste particles in your septic system. This natural toilet cleanser is worth a shot.
Deborah Tukua
Deborah Tukua is a natural living and healthy lifestyle writer who has written seven non-fiction books, including Naturally Sweet Blender Treats. She lives in Hawaii with her family. Since 2004, she has contributed to the Farmers’ Almanac as a writer.
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If you purchase a product after clicking on one of our affiliate links, BobVila.com and its partners may get a commission. Image courtesy of depositphotos.com If you have a septic tank, it is critical that you use the proper toilet paper in order to keep your system in good working order. Toilet paper that does not degrade can build up and produce blockages, resulting in a messy or expensive repair job in the future. Septic-safe toilet paper degrades rapidly and completely, reducing the likelihood of plumbing issues.
Continue reading to learn about the characteristics to look for in the finest toilet paper for septic tanks, as well as the greatest choices for keeping your system clear of clogs.
- Scott 1000 sheets a roll toilet paper is the best value for money. The best overall toilet paper is Cottonelle Ultra CleanCare soft toilet paper
- The runner-up is Angel soft toilet paper
- And the best value for money is Cottonelle Ultra CleanCare soft toilet paper. The best biodegradable toilet paper is Scott Rapid-Dissolving Toilet Paper
- The best recycled toilet paper is Seventh Generation White Toilet Paper, which is 100 percent recycled
- The best bamboo toilet paper is Caboo Tree Free Bamboo Toilet Paper
- And the best large roll is Presto! Mega Roll Toilet Paper has 308 sheets
- THE MOST DISSOLVING:Aqua-Soft Toilet Tissue — Paper for RV and marine use. ADVICE: Angel Soft Toilet Paper with Fresh Lavender Scent is the best-smelling toilet paper available. ALSO CONSIDERE: Freedom Living RV Toilet Paper.
Image courtesy of depositphotos.com
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Toilet Paper for Septic Tanks
Despite the fact that ultra-plush toilet paper feels luxurious and smooth, it is not always the greatest choice for septic tanks since it takes longer to decompose. When shopping for toilet paper, one of the most crucial characteristics to look for is simple dissolvability, which will prevent the toilet paper from piling up and clogging the system. The following are the characteristics to look for in a toilet paper that is septic-safe.
Dissolves Quickly
Because it takes longer to break down, ultra-plush toilet paper may feel luxurious and smooth, but it is not always the ideal choice for septic tanks. One of the most crucial characteristics to look for is simple dissolvability, which will prevent the toilet paper from gathering and clogging the system. The following are the characteristics to look for in a toilet paper that is septic-friendly.
Chlorine-Free
Although ultra-plush toilet paper is luxurious and pleasant to the touch, it is not always the ideal choice for septic tanks since it takes longer to decompose.
One of the most crucial characteristics to look for is simple dissolvability, which will prevent the toilet paper from gathering and generating blockages in the system. The following are the characteristics to look for in a toilet paper that is safe for septic systems.
Strength
The usage of toilet paper that punctures and rips is both inconvenient and unpleasant. Make sure to take into consideration the toilet paper wet strength, which is the ability of the paper to withstand ripping when wetted. A high enough wet strength to accomplish the job without ripping, but a lower wet strength than ordinary toilet paper to break down rapidly once it’s flushed, is the optimal toilet paper for septic tanks. Generally speaking, one-ply and two-ply toilet paper are the most popular choices for septic system use; however, both are acceptable.
Two-ply papers have the advantage of being stronger, more pleasant to use, and still being septic-safe.
Absorbency
Thicker toilet paper is more absorbent than thinner toilet paper, but it can be harmful to a septic system that is already under stress. It’s advised to stay away from ultra-plush toilet paper that looks more like a paper towel than a toilet paper since certain types of toilet paper might be difficult to dissolve. However, even while ultra-thick toilet paper is generally more porous and comfortable to use, it has the potential to clump together rather than break down when flushed. When toilet paper begins to clump and accumulate, it is at this point that difficulties begin to arise, as it can cause an excessive accumulation or cause drainage to become clogged.
Roll Size
Toilet paper is available in a number of various roll sizes and with a number of different labels, ranging from standard to giant rolls. However, because there is no standard size for toilet paper, it is vital to investigate alternative methods of calculating cost-effectiveness and determining the most appropriate size for you and your family. Considering the number of sheets per roll of toilet paper might assist in determining if a certain brand of toilet paper is worth the money or not. It’s also important to consider the quality of the toilet paper; the size and thickness of the sheets will determine how many sheets are required for each wipe.
Because a smaller toilet paper roll holder and limited storage space are required when using toilet paper in an RV or boat bathroom, a smaller roll size is preferable in these situations.
Softness
Using rough or abrasive toilet paper, especially on a regular basis, is something that no one looks forward to. Choose a septic-safe toilet paper that is soft and enjoyable to use for your own comfort and convenience. Please keep in mind that certain ultra-soft toilet paper products are not suited for use in septic tanks. While they are nice to use, their plush surface is generally comprised of thick and lengthy strands that tend to degrade more slowly than other forms of toilet paper.
They are also more expensive to purchase. Instead, search for toilet paper that is soft enough to be used on a regular basis but not so plush that it will not break down in a septic system. When it comes to everyday use, two-ply toilet paper may be more comfortable than one-ply toilet paper.
Our Top Picks
Using rough or abrasive toilet paper, especially on a regular basis, is something that no one looks forward to doing. Choose toilet paper that is soft and enjoyable to use in order to maximize your comfort. Please keep in mind that certain ultra-soft toilet paper products are not suited for use in septic tank systems. However, while they may appear to be comfortable to use, their plush surface is often comprised of thick and lengthy strands that degrade more slowly than other varieties of toilet paper.
When it comes to everyday use, two-ply toilet paper may be more comfortable than one-ply ones.
FAQs About Toilet Paper for Septic Systems
When you have a septic tank, you must be cautious about what you flush down the toilet and what you flush down the sink drain. By using a toilet paper that is designed specifically for septic systems, you may avoid potential plumbing difficulties like as blockages and clogged systems. More inquiries regarding selecting the best septic-safe toilet paper for your house can be answered by reviewing the commonly asked questions and answers listed below.
Q. Do I need special toilet paper for the septic system?
It’s crucial to use toilet paper that dissolves readily, even if you don’t need to use septic-system specific toilet paper. Look for toilet paper that is labeled “septic safe” if you’re in doubt.
Q. What is wet strength?
It’s crucial to use toilet paper that dissolves readily, even if you don’t need to use septic-system-specific toilet paper to do so. Look for toilet paper that is labeled as “septic safe” if you are in doubt.
Q. Can I use two-ply toilet paper with a septic tank?
Yes, there is septic-friendly two-ply toilet paper available, and it is completely safe to use in septic systems as well.
Q. How long does it take for toilet paper to decompose in a septic tank?
The length of time it takes for toilet paper to decompose will vary depending on the kind, thickness, and components in the paper, as well as the conditions in the septic tank. In an ideal situation, toilet paper should begin to dissolve within seconds of being flushed; however, it may take longer to decompose.
Q. What is the worst toilet paper for septic tanks?
Most septic tanks are damaged by toilet paper that does not break down readily; this type of toilet paper will add to the buildup of scum at the bottom of the tank, which can result in more frequent septic tank pumping and/or the occurrence of blockages.
Q. Are flushable wipes OK for septic tanks?
It is not recommended to flush flushable wipes down septic systems because they do not dissolve.
Final Thoughts
No, flushable wipes do not disintegrate in water and should not be flushed down toilets or down septic tanks.
Can I Flush That? A List of Items You Should and Should Not Flush When You Have a Septic System
It is always vital to be careful of what you are flushing down the toilet in order to avoid clogging it up with foreign objects. Items like as diapers and paper towels, for example, should never be flushed down the toilet. The situation becomes much more critical when you have a septic system in your home or business. This is due to the fact that you may accidentally kill the bacteria in your tank or introduce something into your system that will take a long time to degrade. Both of these factors have the potential to generate blockages and back-ups.
- Here are a few of the dos and don’ts to keep in mind.
- If you have a septic system, you will want to use toilet paper that is safe for the system.
- Do not flush feminine hygiene products into the toilet.
- Tampons, on the other hand, may be flushed down the toilet in a standard toilet.
- Because the tampons do not decompose, they might accumulate in your tank and cause it to overflow.
- Do Not Dispose of Septic-Safe Cleaning Supplies.
- Products containing harsh chemicals have the potential to harm the beneficial, waste-eating microorganisms in your tank.
- Check that your cleaning products are safe to use in a septic system as a result.
- Finally, if your child’s favorite goldfish passes away, you may decide to offer them a proper burial by flushing them down the toilet with their waste.
- The fish can introduce a variety of germs into your tank, perhaps destroying the beneficial bacteria already there.
Discard the fish in the garbage can to get rid of it completely. Items flushed down the toilet can have a direct influence on your septic system. It is important to utilize septic-safe items to guarantee that you are not introducing anything into your system that may be harmful.
Top 10 Items To Avoid Putting In Your Septic System
In order to avoid clogging a toilet, it is always vital to be conscious of what you are flushing down it. Items such as diapers and paper towels, for example, should never be flushed down the bathroom sink. The situation becomes considerably more complicated when you have a septic system. As a result, the microorganisms in your tank may be destroyed, and you may also introduce something into your system that will take a long time to degrade. Clogs and back-ups can arise as a result of either of these events.
- Some of the dos and don’ts are listed below.
- Septic-safe toilet paper should be used if your home is equipped with a septic tank.
- Female Hygiene Products Should Not Be Flushed The majority of people are aware that flushing pads down the toilet might cause a blockage in the drain.
- On the other hand, you shouldn’t do so in a septic system.
- Replace them with a garbage can and dispose of any feminine hygiene items in it.
- It is possible to destroy the beneficial, waste-eating bacteria in your tank if you use items that include strong chemicals.
- It is important to check that your cleaning products are safe to use in a wastewater treatment system.
- And last but not least, if your child’s beloved goldfish passes away, you may decide to offer them a proper funeral by flushing them down the toilet.
- A variety of germs can be introduced into your tank by the fish, perhaps causing harm to the beneficial bacteria already present in it.
- Aspects of your septic system that you flush might have an adverse effect.
Caring for Your Septic System
If you have a septic system in your home, you must exercise extreme caution when it comes to the household goods that you use. Septic systems rely on bacteria to break down wastes and sediments, but in order for these bacteria to live, they must be in a certain environment. If you use the incorrect type of detergent in your washing machine or the incorrect drain cleaner, you may wind up destroying the microorganisms in your septic system, leaving it inoperable.
Overflows, obstructions, flooded drain fields, and even groundwater pollution can result as a result of this. To ensure that your septic system continues to work correctly, stay away from these common home goods.
Medicines
When you have unused prescriptions on hand, it might be tempting to flush them down the toilet to eliminate them. DON’T. Pharmaceuticals have the potential to disrupt the bacterial equilibrium in your septic system, resulting in septic system failure. They also contribute to the spread of “superbugs,” germs that are resistant to antibiotics and represent a threat to the health of the entire population. Improperly disposed of drugs damage groundwater, putting the environment and, more importantly, your own drinking water at risk of contamination.
In a countrywide survey conducted in 2000, pharmaceuticals were discovered in 80 percent of the rivers and streams examined.
To safely dispose of medications
Find out if there is a medication disposal program near you. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) organizes National Prescription Drug Take-Back activities, which involve setting up collecting locations in towns around the country to ensure that prescription medicines are properly disposed of. A pharmaceutical take-back program sponsored by your local police department may also be available. If you are unable to locate a pharmaceutical take-back program in your area, you should contact your local waste management authority to learn about drug disposal choices and requirements in your region.
After removing pills out of their original containers and combining them with a “undesirable item” (such as cat litter or old coffee grounds), the FDA suggests placing the combination in a Ziploc bag or a container with a lid and tossing the entire package in the trash.
Non-Septic Safe Toilet Paper
The only item that should be flushed into your septic tank is human waste, and that should be done using a septic safe toilet paper. A toilet paper that is biodegradable and dissolves fast is essential. On the packaging, look for the words “Septic Safe.” After evaluating 21 brands for softness, strength, and ripping ease in March of 2014, two brands stood out: White Cloud 3 Ply Ultra and Charmin Ultra Strong, however the Charmin did not disintegrate as rapidly as the White Cloud.
“Flush-able Wipes” and other Clogging Hazards
The only item that should be flushed into your septic tank is human waste, and that should be done with a septic safe toilet tissue. Using toilet paper that is biodegradable and will decompose fast is essential. On the packaging, look for the words “Septic Safe.” – As part of their March 2014 test of 21 different products, Consumer Reports discovered two that stood out: White Cloud 3 Ply Ultra and Charmin Ultra Strong, but the latter did not disintegrate as swiftly as the former.
Laundry Detergents
It is possible that your laundry contributes a significant portion of the volume in your septic system.
It is likely that the majority of the laundry detergents available at your local grocery shop include some form of environmental contamination. Look for the following:
Low Suds or Biodegradable:
Surfactants, which are foaming agents, are found in all soaps and detergents, and they are used to create foam. They work by lowering the surface tension of fluids, letting them to flow more freely between solids and so remove dirt from the surface of objects. Unfortunately, they have a negative impact on cell membranes and microorganisms, and they will harm the bacteria colony in your septic system. Fortunately, they decay rapidly and do not constitute a significant hazard to groundwater.
Low or no phosphorous and nitrogen:
In all soaps and detergents, surfactants operate as foaming agents to lift the froth from the surface. They work by lowering the surface tension of fluids, letting them to flow more readily between solids and hence remove debris off the surface of solids more quickly. Unfortunately, they have a negative effect on cell membranes and microorganisms, and they will cause harm to the bacteria colony in your septic tank. Unfortunately, they decay fast and do not constitute a significant hazard to groundwater.
Chlorine free:
Chlorine bleach is extremely hazardous and should be avoided if possible, or used in small amounts when necessary. Unfortunately, chlorine bleach is included in a variety of cleaning and disinfecting products. Alternatives that are more effective include oxygen-based bleaches for laundry and white vinegar for disinfection.
Antibacterial Soaps
Avoid using antibacterial hand soaps and any product that claims to be antibacterial. This is not only due to the obvious harm they could do to your bacterial colony, which is required for your septic system to function, but it is also due to the fact that they are now being linked to the development of antibiotic resistant “superbugs.” The good old-fashioned soap and water will suffice.
Automatic Toilet Cleaners
In addition to killing the germs in your toilet, the antibacterial compounds in automated toilet cleaners destroy the microorganisms in your septic tank as well. These toilet cleansers have the potential to result in a septic tank that is overflowing with blue water and a large amount of dead bacteria. A mixture of baking soda and white vinegar, used to clean the toilet, will provide similarly effective foamy results that are completely safe.
Dishwasher Detergents
Dishwasher detergent is more likely than laundry detergent to include phosphates and surfactants, both of which are toxic to the microorganisms in your septic tank and should be avoided. They can also move through your septic tank to the drain field, where they can eventually seep into the soil and leak into ground water, putting your family at danger of drinking polluted water. Look for and use detergent that is free of phosphates.
Drain Cleaners
Drain cleaners should not be used by any homeowner, including those who do not have septic systems in their homes. Chemical drain cleaners not only have the potential to harm beneficial bacteria in your septic tank, but they may also eat away at your pipes! The caustic soda or lye employed in them is a potent oxidant and can result in serious burns if ingested or handled improperly. If your drains are blocked, it is far preferable to spend a little extra money to call a plumber to unclog them rather than using a chemical drain cleaner to clear them.
If there is a problem, you will wind up having to pay a lot more for the damage than you would have if you had hired a professional to do the job.
DIY Drain Cleaner:
- Add 1/2 cup baking soda to the drain and let it sit for a few minutes before adding 1/2 cup white vinegar mixed with extremely hot water to the drain. Allow for a few minutes of resting. This will trigger a chemical reaction, resulting in a lot of foaming, therefore stop the drain or cover it with a towel. The combination will begin to operate immediately, breaking down any lipids into salt and inert gas. Boiling water should be used to flush
Bath Oils
Bathing with some baby oil may provide you with silky-soft skin when you get out, but it’s not a good idea for your septic tank’s performance. Once the oil has been washed into your septic tank, it produces a layer of scum on top of the floating waste, preventing it from settling. As a result, the bacteria are unable to penetrate the oil, preventing them from decomposing the waste. Additionally, the oil might obstruct your drain field.
Solvents
Don’t flush anything inorganic down the toilet such as paints, solvents, insecticides, oils, or anything else that might kill the bacteria.
Other UnsafeSeptic Items – Things not to flush include
- Disposable diapers
- Sanitary napkins or tampons
- Paper towels or bandages
- Dental floss
- Condoms
- Hair
- Cigarette butts
- Disposable diapers
- Disposable diapers Coffee grinds
- Kitty litter
- And so on.
Author’s Bio:Steve McGonagle, proprietor of Septic Genie, assists homeowners in diagnosing and resolving their septic system problems. The Septic Genie method, which was first patented in 1995, has assisted hundreds of households in restoring their damaged septic systems while avoiding the expensive cost of “dig and replace.” is a website dedicated to providing trouble-free septic systems for life.
How to Care for Your Septic System
Septic system maintenance is neither difficult or expensive, and it does not have to be done frequently. The maintenance of a vehicle is comprised of four major components:
- Inspect and pump your drainfield on a regular basis
- Conserve water
- Dispose of waste properly
- And keep your drainfield in good condition.
Inspect and Pump Frequently
Inspection of the ordinary residential septic system should be performed by a septic service specialist at least once every three years. Household septic tanks are normally pumped every three to five years, depending on how often they are used. Alternative systems that use electrical float switches, pumps, or mechanical components should be examined more frequently, typically once a year, to ensure that they are in proper working order. Because alternative systems contain mechanical components, it is essential to have a service contract.
- The size of the household
- The total amount of wastewater produced
- The amount of solids present in wastewater
- The size of the septic tank
Service provider coming? Here is what you need to know.
When you contact a septic service provider, he or she will inspect your septic tank for leaks as well as the scum and sludge layers that have built up over time. Maintain detailed records of any maintenance work conducted on your septic system. Because of the T-shaped outlet on the side of your tank, sludge and scum will not be able to escape from the tank and travel to the drainfield region. A pumping is required when the bottom of the scum layer or the top of the sludge layer is within six inches of the bottom of the outlet, or if the top of the sludge layer is within 12 inches of the bottom of the outlet.
In the service report for your system, the service provider should mention the completion of repairs as well as the condition of the tank.
An online septic finder from the National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association (NOWRA) makes it simple to identify service specialists in your region.
Use Water Efficiently
In a normal single-family house, the average indoor water consumption is about 70 gallons per person, per day, on average. A single leaking or running toilet can waste as much as 200 gallons of water each day, depending on the situation. The septic system is responsible for disposing of all of the water that a residence sends down its pipes. The more water that is conserved in a household, the less water that enters the sewage system.
A septic system that is operated efficiently will operate more efficiently and will have a lower chance of failure. The Environmental Protection Agency’s WaterSense program offers several simple strategies to conserve water as well as water-efficient goods.
- Approximately 70 gallons of indoor water are consumed by each individual in a normal single-family house on a daily basis. A single leaking or running toilet can waste as much as 200 gallons of water each day, depending on how often it occurs. Septic systems collect and treat all of the water that a household sends down its pipes. When a family conserves water, less water is discharged into a storm drain or into the septic tank. Improved septic system performance and reduced failure risk are two benefits of water conservation. With the Environmental Protection Agency’s WaterSense program, you may conserve water in a variety of ways and buy goods that are more water-efficient.
Properly Dispose of Waste
Everything that goes down your drains, whether it’s flushed down the toilet, ground up in the trash disposal, or poured down the sink, shower, or bath, ends up in your septic system, which is where it belongs. What you flush down the toilet has an impact on how effectively your septic system functions.
Toilets aren’t trash cans!
All of the waste that travels down your drains, whether it’s flushed down the toilet or ground up in the garbage disposal, or poured down the sink, shower or bath, ends up in your septic system. Depending on what goes down the drain, your septic system may or may not function properly.
- Cooking grease or oil
- Wipes that are not flushable, such as baby wipes or other wet wipes
- Photographic solutions
- Feminine hygiene items Condoms
- Medical supplies such as dental floss and disposable diapers, cigarette butts and coffee grounds, cat litter and paper towels, pharmaceuticals, and household chemicals such as gasoline and oil, insecticides, antifreeze, and paint or paint thinners
Toilet Paper Needs to Be Flushed! Check out this video, which demonstrates why the only item you should flush down your toilet are toilet paper rolls.
Think at the sink!
Your septic system is made up of a collection of living organisms that digest and treat the waste generated by your household. Pouring pollutants down your drain can kill these organisms and cause damage to your septic system as well as other things. Whether you’re at the kitchen sink, the bathtub, or the utility sink, remember the following:
- If you have a clogged drain, avoid using chemical drain openers. To prevent this from happening, use hot water or a drain snake
- Never dump cooking oil or grease down the sink or toilet. It is never a good idea to flush oil-based paints, solvents, or huge quantities of harmful cleansers down the toilet. Even latex paint waste should be kept to a bare minimum. Disposal of rubbish should be avoided or limited to a minimum. Fats, grease, and particles will be considerably reduced in your septic tank, reducing the likelihood of your drainfield being clogged.
Own a recreational vehicle (RV), boat or mobile home?
If you have ever spent any time in an RV or boat, you are undoubtedly familiar with the issue of aromas emanating from sewage holding tanks.
- The National Small Flows Clearinghouse’s Septic System Care hotline, which may be reached toll-free at 800-624-8301, has a factsheet on safe wastewater disposal for RV, boat, and mobile home owners and operators.
Maintain Your Drainfield
It is critical that you maintain the integrity of your drainfield, which is a component of your septic system that filters impurities from the liquid that emerges from your septic tank once it has been installed. Here are some things you should do to keep it in good condition:
- Parking: Do not park or drive on your drainfield at any time. Plan your tree plantings so that their roots do not grow into your drainfield or septic system. An experienced septic service provider can recommend the appropriate distance for your septic tank and surrounding landscaping, based on your specific situation. Locating Your Drainfield: Keep any roof drains, sump pumps, and other rainfall drainage systems away from the drainfield area. Excess water causes the wastewater treatment process to slow down or halt completely.
The Myth of Rid-X and Why You Should Never Use it in Your Septic System
More than 21 million households in the United States rely on septic systems to collect and treat the wastewater generated by their homes and businesses. Septic systems, which are touted as an environmentally beneficial alternative to the chemically-laden waste treatment facilities that many communities rely on, work to naturally filter wastewater. Moreover, while a well working system requires little more than periodic cleanings every 2-4 years, some homeowners seek to improve the efficiency of their septic systems by adding additives, such as Rid-X, to give the bacteria in their tanks a little boost, which is not recommended.
Those costly additions not only interfere with the treatment process of your system, but they also put your entire septic system at danger of catastrophic collapse.
Septic Systems 101
It is necessary to first have a broad understanding of how septic systems operate before we can discuss the reasons why chemicals such as Rid-X are harmful to your septic system. Solids sink to the bottom of a well working septic tank, while liquids rise to the top. Wastewater then exits via the outlet baffle and filters into the drain field, where it is cleansed and reabsorbed into the groundwater. The bacteria contained in human waste work to degrade the particles in your septic tank, causing them to settle and form a layer of sludge on the bottom of the tank.
Every 2-4 years, this layer of sludge must be removed from your system by a sludge pump. The bacteria in your septic system are excellent at breaking down particles and slowing the building of sludge, as long as the system is kept in a properly balanced environmental state.
How additives, like Rid-x, interfere with your septic system’s eco-system
It is possible to have too much of a good thing. There are several suggestions and products available to homeowners who want to improve the bacteria in their septic systems, ranging from commercial additions such as Rid-X to more bizarre suggestions such as yeast packets and raw liver! However, in a well operating bacterial environment, these additions have no beneficial impact and can potentially do enough harm to your septic system to cause it to fail completely and permanently. In that case, what exactly is the problem with chemicals like Rid-X?
Due to the fact that Rid-X includes a much stronger type of enzymes than the natural bacteria present in a good septic system, particles are broken down considerably more thoroughly than they would be in the absence of Rid-X.
However, this is not the case.
Soon after, the drain field will become blocked and will need to be replaced, which will cost more money.
Better methods for maintaining bacteria in your septic system
The most important thing you can do to ensure that your septic system is operating at peak performance is to keep a careful check on what you are pouring down the toilet. It is never acceptable to utilize your toilet or sink as a trash can!
- Avoid introducing harsh chemicals into your system, such as bleach, paint thinners, insecticides, gasoline, antifreeze, and the like, because they can damage the bacteria that is responsible for keeping your system running correctly. If your house has a septic system, you should avoid using garbage disposals because they flood the system with organic materials that are too difficult for the microorganisms in the septic tank to break down. Inorganic items such as feminine hygiene products, kitty litter, cigarette butts, and paper towels should never be flushed down the toilet. They fill your septic tank with substances that are not biodegradable
- Keep track of how much water you’re putting into your system and preserve it wherever you can to keep costs down. When possible, combine loads of laundry and only run your dishwasher when it is completely full. The use of grey water (water from the washing machine, dishwasher, baths and showers) to flood your septic system and drain field to the point of exhaustion will interfere with the bacterial composition of your septic tank and drain field.
