Septic tanks are an amazing cost-effective and eco-friendly invention but we do have to be careful about how we maintain them. A major element of septic tank maintenance is paying close attention to what we’re putting into them and considering the ways in which our everyday habits and routines may effect your septic system. Many ordinary household items and products can be extremely harmful to our septic tanks and so we’ve decided to compile a helpful list of do’s and don’ts below:
Don’t…
Put any kind of hazardous waste in your septic tank
This is one of the biggest don’ts for a septic tank since any kind of hazardous waste is likely to do severe damage to your septic tank. Examples of common hazardous waste are paint, paint thinners, motor oil, petrol, diesel and pesticides
Use it to dispose of too many solids
One of the main solids that you should always avoid when you have a septic tank is coffee grounds. Other solids that you should always avoid are cat litter, diapers, dental floss, cigarette butts, sanitary items and tampons. As a general rule of thumb, you should avoid anything that cannot easily and quickly decompose.
Put oil down the sink
Any fats, excess grease or cooking oil should never be poured down your kitchen sink as it will clog your septic tank. Instead, dispose of these items with your household rubbish.
Use harmful cleaning products
Anything containing bleach, nitrogen, disinfectant, caustic soda or high levels of phosphorus. Also do not flush antibacterial wipes down your toilet.
Use Fabric Softener
This will prevent the wastewater in your septic tank being treated properly.
Do…
Use septic safe cleaning products
Below is a rundown of the various products that you can use:
- Kitchen: you should always use dishwashing powders that are low in phosphorus and sodium.
- Laundry: Use biodegradable and low-phosphorus laundry detergent
- Bathroom: use a cream cleanser or spray bottle cleaner. For your toilet, bath and tiles make a simple solution of bicarbonate soda and water.
Use eco-friendly products
Your septic tank won’t filter out any chemicals or toxins meaning that they will be filtered out into the environment. You should always opt for products that are 100% natural and biodegradable as they won’t harm the environment.
Conserve Water
Try to only use your dishwasher and washing machine when they are filled rather than wasting water on half loads. Also, try to limit the number of times that you are flushing your toilet.
Install an effluent filter
This will extend the life of your septic tank system and reduce the amount of solid waste leaving the tank.
At Global Tanks, we have a range of septic tanks in different sizes to suit your needs. We have 32 years of experience in creating innovative and sustainable rotomoulded tanks and are committed to always providing our customers with effective solutions. If you would like to learn more about any of our products or services, get in touch with us today!
