Sanitation In Cooking

3 Every Day Usage Tips For Safeguarding Your Septic System

Having a home that operates off a septic system definitely has its advantages. However, it can also have its drawbacks. For starters, unlike traditional plumbing systems, you have to be especially mindful of the types of products you use and even how you use your system, as a failure to do so can cause significant damage.

Cleaning Products

When cleaning your toilet, sinks and bathtubs, be careful of the cleaning products you use. For starters, be careful using bleach. While you can use bleach containing products, putting half a container of pure bleach down the toilet to clean it is not a good idea. The toilet might be white, but once inside the tank, the bleach can destroy the good bacteria, which can prevent the proper breakdown of waste  

Keep this same thing in mind when it comes to dishwasher detergent. Some of the chemicals inside this mixture can also kill the good bacteria inside the tank. It's best to go with natural, or organic, cleaning options to stay safe.

Toilet Paper

You also need to be cautious when it comes to the toilet paper you use. It might all look the same on the shelf, but toilet papers vary significantly. First, avoid paper blends that contain lotion. The lotion won't break down and will only end up settling inside the tank. Next, the paper should be designed for rapid breakdown.

Remember, running on a septic system is all about having adequate space within the tank. The longer it takes the paper to dissolve, the less space you will have inside your tank so the faster the paper breaks down, the better. Once you find a brand that works, it's a good idea to stick with it.

House Guests

If you're planning to host some people over, as the owner of a home with a septic tank system, there are some things you need to keep in mind. First, if you haven't had your tank pumped in a while, it might be a good idea to do so before your guests arrive. If you're a small family of four and you're hosting twenty people over, a tank that is nearly full can quickly be overloaded with the constant flushing from the additional usage.

Rather than have a backup, and all the problems it brings, have the tank pumped and remind your guests that you have a septic system so that they're mindful of what they flush.

When it comes to a septic system, the more closely you follow the rules, the less likely you are to experience a problem. Make sure you're operating the system with care in mind. For more information or assistance, contact companies like Mr Bob.


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