Flushing: Keeping Your Septic System in Top Shape
A well-functioning septic system is essential to maintaining a healthy home and environment, yet many homeowners unknowingly harm their systems by flushing the wrong items. Understanding what is safe to flush and what isn’t can prevent costly repairs, reduce environmental impact, and prolong the life of your septic system.
What You Should Never Flush
- ‘Flushable’ Wipes
Despite their name, ‘flushable’ wipes don’t break down in the septic system as easily as toilet paper. These wipes can accumulate, causing blockages and even leading to major backups. Stick to toilet paper only—it’s designed to break down quickly in water. - Paper Towels and Tissues
Unlike toilet paper, paper towels and tissues are not made to dissolve in water. These materials can clog pipes and create backups. Keep a trash bin near your toilet to discard these items safely. - Feminine Hygiene Products
Items such as tampons and sanitary pads absorb moisture and expand, which can lead to severe blockages in the septic tank and pipes. Instead, dispose of these products in a trash can. - Cotton Swabs, Dental Floss, and Hair
Although small, items like cotton swabs, dental floss, and hair do not break down in the septic system. They can clump together, causing blockages over time. These materials are better disposed of in the trash. - Medications
Flushing medications can introduce harmful chemicals into your septic system, which can disrupt the bacterial balance needed for waste breakdown. Instead, dispose of expired or unused medications through a local pharmacy or community take-back program. - Harsh Chemicals and Cleaning Agents
Household cleaners, bleach, and other strong chemicals can kill the bacteria in your septic tank responsible for breaking down waste. Opt for septic-safe or biodegradable cleaning products that won’t harm your system.
What Is Safe to Flush
The only things that should go down your toilet are human waste and toilet paper. Toilet paper is designed to dissolve quickly and won’t harm your septic system. For all other waste, including personal hygiene products, chemicals, and cleaning wipes, use a trash bin.
Tips for Maintaining Your Septic System
- Educate Household Members
Inform everyone in your home about what can and cannot be flushed. Often, children or guests may not be aware of the impact that flushing certain items can have on your septic system. - Install Septic-Friendly Fixtures
Some plumbing fixtures and toilets are specifically designed to be more compatible with septic systems, such as low-flow toilets that reduce the strain on the system by conserving water. - Schedule Regular Inspections
Preventative maintenance goes a long way in avoiding septic issues. Regular inspections by a professional can catch small problems before they escalate into costly repairs.
By sticking to these flushing guidelines, you’ll not only keep your septic system in top shape but also extend its life, protect your home, and contribute to a healthier environment.
For more septic information and service, call Action Septic Tank Service at 770-922-1434 and visit our website, Action Septic Tank Service.
Action Septic Tank Service is located in Alpharetta-Milton, GA, in North Fulton County. We provide residential, commercial and industrial septic and sewer service for North Atlanta, Metro Atlanta and surrounding areas. We are open daily from 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM and also provide emergency service.
Septic and Sewer Services: septic pumping, septic cleaning, maintenance, inspections, installations, line repair and replacement, drainfield repair and replacement, hydro jetting, sewer line cleaning, sewer line repair and replacement, dry wells, alternative systems, backhoe work, backflow prevention, excavating, septic treatments, grease trap cleaning and care
North Atlanta – Metro Atlanta Service Areas: Acworth, Alpharetta, Atlanta, Brookhaven, Buckhead, Buford, Canton, Crabapple, Cumming, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Cobb, Gainesville, Gwinnett, Holly Springs, Johns Creek, Lanier, Marietta, Metro Atlanta, Milton, Norcross, North Atlanta, North Fulton, Peachtree Corners, Roswell, Sandy Plains, Sandy Springs, South Forsyth, Sugar Hill, Suwanee, Waleska, West Cobb, Woodstock
North GA Counties: Barrow County, Cherokee County, Cobb County, Dawson County, DeKalb County, East Cobb County, Fayette County, Forsyth County, Fulton County, Gwinnett County, Hall County, North Fulton County, South Forsyth County, West Cobb County
