Ensure your septic tank runs smoothly
Unsure what can go into a septic tank?
This article explains what should, and shouldn't be put into a septic tank to keep it operating well, vital for the health of your drainage field.
Similarly to a sewage treatment plant, we can break down what should not be put down the drains (through toilets, washing machine, showers and sinks) into 3 categories as follows:
Any items that could block up a filter (if you have one) or the drainage field are as follows:
Your local council refuse service will be able to advise how best to dispose of the above list.
Note: If you have knowingly disposed of any of the above items in your septic system, it is worth getting the tank emptied.
Whilst there are fewer bacteria forming in a septic tank than a sewage treatment plant, it is still important to be careful not to put any of the following down the drains:
It must be noted that small quantities of bleach and detergent won’t have a huge impact on the ecosystem in the tank. Spreading the use of bleach and detergents over a number of days will be beneficial for the bacteria. For example, having one washing day a week will shock the bacteria in the tank. Doing clothes washing on a Sunday, Tuesday, Friday for instance, will help. The use of eco-friendly products like the EcoGurus range is also advisable.
If you are putting any of these items down your drains, you might experience a smell from your septic tank.
To some degree, waste is broken down in a septic tank, adding to the waste is not conducive to good bacterial growth and may overload it. Items and substances that should not be put down the drains are:
Disposing of food down your drains (which hasn’t been broken down by a human first!) could be the equivalent of adding another 4-5 peoples waste into your system. Also as food breaks down it can smell rather pungent. Similarly, the waste from a dog is similar in volume to the waste of a human. Therefore should not be put into the treatment plant.
Food waste should be disposed of within the guidelines of your local waste authority. The Hotbin mini is another great method of composting your food waste to be used around the garden.
Fat and oil will most certainly be harmful to the bacteria in the tank and will also likely clog up the drainage field.
If you are having problems with odour coming from your septic system, have a look at our post on smelly septic tanks or get the tank pumped to remove any contamination.
To achieve a better functioning system, treat the bacteria in your septic tank like pets. They really only want human waste. Keep them healthy by limiting the amount of harmful substances you dispose of and you will certainly have happier bacteria.