Septic sewers are actually a wise environmental and financial option for sewage treatment.
Septic sewers are actually a wise environmental and financial option for sewage treatment. Though most of us participate in a public sewer system, septic sewers are like our own private waste treatment and disposal plant. In residential homes, septic tanks are buried in your front or back yard. Like a sewer system, everything that goes down your drains will run right into your septic tank.
If you’ve lived with septic sewers, you are conscious of water use and good septic practices. Because of the limited space in your tank, you can actually fill the tank up faster than it can naturally drain. Since everything goes into your tank, you have to be especially careful as to what you use, from laundry detergents to the type of toilet paper, and how much you put into your drains. Some plumbers suggest not using liquid fabric softeners, because they can clog the drain holes in the drainage lines, resulting in very expensive repairs.
In terms of solids, you should never put any non-organic materials down the drain. Sanitary napkins, applicators, and paper (look for easily dissolving toilet paper) should never be flushed down a drain. What isn’t biodegradable will sit in septic sewers indefinitely. Even organic material should be allowed sparingly down drains. Limit use of the garbage disposals when you are putting solid food into the drain. It would be better to toss food products away in your garbage, or start a compost pile. Excess amounts of food products in your septic system can take a long time to break down.
Be aware of cleaning products. Products such as household bleach can upset the natural waste treatment process occurring in your septic tank. Bleach and other chemicals can destroy the microbes necessary for breaking down organic materials.
There are products on the market that claim to be able to reestablish the bacteria balance to your septic system, but it is best to limit the amount of chemicals you permit into your system. Additionally, you should limit amount of lint from your washing machines into your system by install a washing machine filter. Lint can clog the drainage of your septic tank, blocking other waste from draining out of it.