You may never think about what happens to your wastewater once it flushes away or goes down the drain; why would you? But if your septic system is not properly maintained and managed, then problems may arise (such as foul smells) for you that will force you to be aware of your wastewater habits. This is something we want to help you avoid. So we’re going to run you through some simple steps you can take and changes you can make around the house to avoid any septic tank problems.

Septic systems function by using good bacteria and soil to break down wastewater and eliminate any viruses or diseases from the water. This process happens before it enters public/private wastewater treatment plants and eventually supplies us with drinking water. There are certain factors that can put stress on your septic system, and eventually damage your system so then it no longer functions correctly.

All of these stresses are being enhanced during this Covid-19 induced home quarantine period we’re currently in. It’s even more important now to take extra care and be extra mindful of how to treat your septic system. The last thing you need in your home right now is a malfunctioning septic system so a little will surely go a long way.

What Could Be Causing This Extra Pressure On Your Septic System?

Currently, more time is being spent at home. In fact, all/most of your time is being spent at home, and your tank has all this extra work to handle that it’s not used to.

Before finding ourselves in this home quarantine, septic tanks got a break when parents were at work or kids at school. Now, everyone is home all the time, cleaning the house more, doing more laundry and washing more dishes from the many more meals had at home. We are also cleaning with harsh antibacterial chemicals because of the extra caution being taken with hygiene due to the nature of the coronavirus pandemic.

Covid-19 Septic Care Tips

We’re going to list off a few tips and ideas that could make all the difference and avoid any issues with your septic system and keep it in top shape.

Harsh Chemicals: Avoid Them

Cleaning products that contain a bunch of harsh chemicals are particularly toxic for your domestic septic tank. Products containing bleach, or straight bleach should be eluded at all costs. If you must use these, we’d advise using them scarcely and avoid flushing them down the drain or toilet. There are lots of ordinary, septic friendly products you can buy or make that you can use for cleaning, and they won’t mess with the bacteria balance in your septic system and cause unwanted damage. 

Use Normal Soap

Many are using antibacterial soap at the moment, and it’s unnecessary because regular soap does the same thing and it won’t damage your septic system. So, use good ole’ fashioned standard soap to wash your hands.

Laundry & Dishes – Do Fewer Loads

Everyone is super concerned with washing clothes at the minute, due to being wary of the virus. If you leave the house for a walk and don’t come into contact with anyone or any public surfaces, your clothes should be fine and not need to be washed after every day. With more people in the house, ensure you gather the clothes and do one big load rather than a bunch of small loads. You are wasting water, and your detergent could be straining your septic system.

Same with washing dishes, just try and make the most out of your wash cycles.

Use liquid detergent & dishwashing liquid! Powder detergent s usually harsher on septic systems and can clog the drain field.

NEVER Flush:

• Wipes (even flushable ones)
• Feminine hygiene products
• Paper towels (kitchen roll)
• Tissues 
• Chemicals
• Cigarettes
• Condoms
• Food
• Pharmaceuticals 

Don’t flush ANYTHING other than body waste and toilet paper.

Save water: Showers not baths

Save water with quick showers, not baths. Try and wash your hair less to avoid long showers. Also, try and stagger water usage, don’t take a shower at the same time as the laundry is on AND the dishwasher. This will put a strain on your wastewater system.

Explain it to your kids

Avoid the garbage disposal

If you have a garbage disposal, try and avoid using it especially now. Certain foods should never enter your septic system because they have bacteria that will not cooperate with the good bacteria in your tank and could cause bad smells and blockages.

If you come across any issues with your septic tank, feel free to contact us at Carlow Concrete Tanks.