What chemicals are safe to use with my septic system?

What chemicals are safe to use in my septic system?

This year we’ve all been a little more aware of keeping our homes clean. This can cause some anxiety when combined with a septic system or water treatment plant which can be sensitive to harsh chemicals.

In this article, we go into a little more detail on what chemicals are and are not suitable for your home waste system.

Why should I avoid certain cleaning products?

Your septic system is a living breathing ecosystem, teeming with microorganisms (more info on those little critters here *insert “Life in Discs” link*). Solid waste settles on the bottom of your tank where an army of microbes digest it, removing dissolved nutrients and making the water safe to be discharged. These tiny organisms can be very sensitive to certain chemicals and it’s our job to keep them as happy as possible. Remember, Just two gallons of chlorine bleach can kill off the functioning bacteria in a 1,000-gallon septic tank!

Avoid harsh drain cleaners

Most drain cleaners contain harsh chemicals out of necessity. It can take a lot of power to break through build up in pipes. Only use drain cleaners labelled “septic safe” and use very sparingly. Foaming, solid, and crystal drain cleaners can damage the system and shouldn’t be used.

If your sink is blocked try using a kettle of boiling water first. If that doesn’t work, try a combination of baking soda and vinegar (both entirely safe for septic systems). If neither of these options dislodge the clog, only then resort to chemical cleaners.

Some chemical cleaning products are fine for septic systems….

Most cleaning chemicals that you use in your home and on your body are alkaline.

This is generally ok as It’s neutralised by the waste in your tank which is acidic. Problems only arise when the system becomes too alkaline so avoid using any chemical in large doses. Never dispose of waste chemicals down the sink or in your toilet for this reason.

If in doubt think, “would I put this on my skin?” If it’s too harsh for your body, chances are it’s too harsh for your tank too.

What Septic Safe chemicals can I use to clean my home?

Most household cleaners are safe to use with septic systems in normal amounts. To guarantee the health and happiness of your tank microbes, opt for “septic safe” cleaners that are;

natural
water based
non-chlorine
non-ammonia
non-antibacterial
non-toxic
Biodegradable

We have a great range of Septic Safe cleaners available on our website;

Full list coming soon!

The following natural, everyday products are safe to clean and disinfect your home with:

Distilled white vinegar
Lemon juice
Baking soda
Borax
Salt

It’s simple to use natural cleaning products in most areas of your home. Here are a few effective natural cleaners that are septic safe:

White Vinegar – The natural enzymes will break down soap scum, grease and odors.
Baking soda – The rough texture is perfect for making steel and chrome fixtures shine.
Borax – mix ½ cup with water for superior disinfecting strength on surfaces.

What else shouldn’t you put down your drain?

Things you should never put into your septic system are;

Fats, oils or grease
Disposable nappies
Wet wipes
Coffee grounds, egg and nutshells
Cigarettes with filters inside
Feminine sanitary items
Paper towels & napkins – These are not designed to dissolve in water and can block your system in the same way baby wipes do.
Paints or chemicals – especially avoid bleach, pesticides and disinfectants containing high levels of phosphates.

For more advise on how to keep your Septic tank happy click this link;

https://mayglothlingwaste.com/about/articles/how-to-keep-your-septic-tank-happy-this-christmas/

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