Maintaining a Healthy Septic System: What Not to Flush or Pour Down the Drain

Bad stuff for your septic includes oil, paints and solvents, medication and cigartte buttsBacteria and enzymes are important to the health of your septic system.  Flushing or pouring certain things down the drain can hurt the health your septic system.  Here are some common household items you should avoid flushing or pouring down the drain:

  • Coffee grounds and other food items 
  • Grease and cooking oils that contribute to scum layers 
  • Plastic, paper towels, facial tissue, tampons and sanitary napkins
  • Household cleaners such as bleach, disinfectants, drain and toilet bowl cleaners  (these should be used in moderation, since they can kill necessary bacteria disrupting the operation of you septic tank)
  • Toxic waste, hazardous household chemicals 
  • Paint, varnish, paint thinners, anti-freeze (which also destroy helpful bacteria and the biological digestion that takes place in septic systems)

You can boost the health of your septic system with Envirozyme, which can enhance and repair the bacterial enzyme activity needed in below-ground septic systems.

Mike Clark Excavating and Septic Pumping