People living in Burnaby, BC often overlook how crucial it is to keep septic systems checked and well-maintained. These tanks need regular care to work smoothly and avoid costly problems. While many homes connect to the city sewer, those using septic tanks must stick to a strict upkeep routine. Taking care of the system can save a lot of money and keep it running longer without breaking down. Getting the tank pumped every three to five years is a smart move. A strong vacuum hose clears out solids and liquids, making the tank like new again. Spreading out chores during the week, like doing laundry one load per day instead of all at once, helps the tank handle water better and prevents overload. Running the washing machine and dishwasher at different times is another simple trick that pays off. Being careful about what goes down the drain matters, too. Only human waste, water, and toilet paper should be flushed. Many “flushable” products can cause nasty clogs and lead to big repair bills. Knowing these tips helps homeowners protect their septic systems and avoid surprises, which is why keeping this knowledge handy is a smart step for anyone using a septic tank today.
- Feminine products
- Facial tissue
- Paper towels
- Hair
- Wipes
- Diapers
- Qtips
Only Water Goes In Sinks and Drains
People didn’t realize the damage done when people rinsed food and grease down the drain in the past. Today, septic experts tirelessly educate homeowners on the importance of keeping inappropriate items out of the sink and drains. Never dispose of grease down the sink, as grease is arguably the number-one cause of kitchen plumbing clogs.
It’s okay for plain water to go down the drain. However, homeowners should avoid allowing the following to go down kitchen or bathroom drains:
- Food
- Grease
- Chemicals
- Paper towels
- Facial Tissues
- Trash
These items can cause problems throughout the drain and septic systems. For example, they can clog sink openings, pipes, or septic systems. However, homeowners are helping to avoid costly plumbing and septic system repairs by only allowing water down the drains.
Avoid Allowing Chemicals to Wash Down the Drain
When a septic system is working correctly, the system uses good bacteria to process household waste. If the good bacteria are killed, the system cannot work as it should. A major killer of the good bacteria that a septic system needs is chemicals, including those used by homeowners to clean and unclog drains.
Homeowners wanting to protect and care for their system should go out of their way to avoid using chemicals that could damage their delicate and expensive system. Try to clean the home with gentle cleaners and avoid allowing cleansers or anything containing bleach to enter the drains. This includes laundry detergent and toilet bowl cleaners with bleach listed as an ingredient. In addition, never use anything that has ammonia listed as an ingredient.
Two other products famous for killing the good bacteria in septic systems are antibacterial soaps and anything labeled disinfectant. Unfortunately, these products kill both the good and the harmful bacteria in homes and the essential bacteria in the septic system. So, again, only use gentle products safe for homes with septic systems and be careful not to rinse the products down the sink.
Find Ways to Unclog Drains Safely
Clogged drains are a nightmare as people rely on their drains to remove wastewater from their homes. Nothing is worse than a clogged toilet, bathtub, or kitchen sink. The fastest and easiest way to clear drains safely is to call a plumbing professional when you can’t do it yourself.
People who try to clear a drain on their own need to keep in mind the rule about avoiding chemicals in the drain system. Products marketed to clear clogs can do more harm than good. While these products can eat the items causing the clog, these products are also famous for eating through drains and damaging septic systems. Skip the chemicals and find a safe way to unclog the drain and system. If all else fails, call a plumber in Burnaby to safely remove clogs from drains without damaging the septic system.
New West Plumbing Is There When Needed
At New West Plumbing, we aim to offer hassle-free service for your plumbing issues. Our qualified plumbers will come to your home, check out the issue, diagnose the problem, and describe the recommended repair. Before you have any septic system issues that develop and spiral out of hand, contact the plumbing professionals of New West Plumbing to schedule an appointment for routine maintenance.
