If you have a septic system, you can’t treat it like an ordinary sewer hookup. The amount of water, type of cleaning supplies, and style of plumbing appliances you use all affect the way the system works. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for so you can protect the septic tank.
Household Causes of Septic Issues
1. Toilet
Your septic system is only designed for waste, toilet paper, and a small amount of food from the kitchen. Other materials, like absorbent cotton products or cat litter, can cause clogs in the plumbing or in the hose the septic company uses to empty that tank. Make sure your family knows to only flush toilet paper and waste.
2. Garbage Disposal
Similarly, putting too much food waste and grease in the garbage disposal can overwhelm the system. Grease will solidify and clog the pipes. Rice and pasta swell when they absorb water, also causing clogs. Meat and vegetables can take longer to break down than waste, so the tank may need pumping more often. Large amounts of these materials should go in a trash can instead.
3. Hot Tub
If you drain a hot tub into the septic system, the amount of water will overwhelm the system’s capacity. Additionally, the water is treated with pool chemicals and can kill beneficial bacteria in the septic tank. Instead of emptying the hot tub down your plumbing drain, use a hose to move the water to an unused area of the yard.
4. Washing Machine
While a washing machine doesn’t hold as much water as a hot tub, running it multiple times in a row can still be too much for a septic system. Washing machines also generate lint buildup that causes clogs. Spreading out your laundry throughout the week and only running full loads can minimize these issues.
5. Dishwasher
Like a washing machine, too many dishwasher cycles all at once create enough wastewater to overwhelm the septic tank. The same issue will happen if you use multiple appliances at once, so try to space out your water usage. Also, choose an eco-friendly dish detergent; otherwise, a powerful detergent can kill the good bacteria in the tank.
For plumbing services to restore and protect your septic system, choose Bernie Buchner, Inc. in La Crosse, WI. Serving the Tri-State area for 70 years, the company’s skilled plumbers are available 24/7 for emergencies. They’re also licensed, bonded, and insured to replace appliances and repair your plumbing. To get a quote, contact them online or call (608) 784-9000. You can also text JOIN to (608) 480-8709 to receive text message updates.