A septic tank is a living, breathing ecosystem that has to be looked after. It works because of billions of bacillus bacteria producing multiple enzymes that treat your waste, that’s why everything that goes down the drain or toilet must be chemical free and able to maintain the bacterial balance.
Just think of your septic the same way that you would a fish tank. Basically, anything you wouldn’t put into a fishtank shouldn’t go into your septic!
Things that you wouldn’t normally think would be a problem like fruit juices, home brewing waste, dairy products etc, can put a strain on the delicate balance that is the “engine” of your septic.
Harsh cleaning products introduce the biggest threat to septics. Well advertised “miracle” cleaners are usually the worst for septics – even some that proclaim to be “septic safe” as they contain harsh chemical – often proclaiming to be “Anti-bacterial”!
Avoid the use of bleaches, chlorine or other acidic cleaners – even limit the use of vinegar as it’s base is acetic acid which can slow the bacterial activity. Allow bleaches to “air-dry” if you do have use, as they turn back into a safer salt. (Just block the drain when you use, so no liquids go down enter the septic).
Dairy products create excessive fats which need extra processing, so it’s best to introduce slowly over a long period.
Home brewing waste is full of yeast which continues to activate in the enriched environment of a septic causing frothing which prevents settling or flocking in the tank.
Medications can also be harmful to your tank as many are known to be “anti-biotic” or “anti-inflammatory” both of which will harm your system.
So. To round-up:
- A septic is a living ecosystem that needs protection to work efficiently.
- Chemicals, medications and some foods can harm your system
- The use of good bacteria like in Septic Clean helps maintain efficient tank operation.
