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As a septic professional, I'm often asked
what products are safe for septic
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Are your cleaning products harming your septic system?
Get answers to common septic system questions from Jacqueline Sommers, a certified wastewater professional and owner of Better Than Septic
Wastewater contains a variety of constituents, including human and food waste, pharmaceuticals, pathogens, nutrients and chemicals
Today we're going to discuss cleaning products that are intended to be rinsed down the drain during normal use
CLEANING PRODUCTS
Q (to Jacque): Let's discuss household cleaning products!
A: Sure, with different household surfaces, it's not surprising how many cleaning products are available in the marketplace. Chemical cleansers, disinfectants, biocides and even homemade solutions can all have an effect on septic systems - in fact MANY CLEANING products are on the "Dirty Dozen" list for septic systems, so extra attention is required when using these products.
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| ALWAYS read the labels |
A: Absolutely. Septic systems are vulnerable to failure caused by user error, and knowing what CAN and CANNOT be put down the drain is essential. Harsh chemicals can harm or even destroy beneficial septic system bacteria which are necessary to break down solids.
Q: Is it possible to safely use cleaning products on septic?
A: Yes. Most household cleaners are safe when applied according to product labels. Always read product labels and follow the directions for use and dilution strength.
A: CAUTION means the product will have little effect; WARNING means the product should be used sparingly; and DANGER means the product should be used very seldom or even eliminated.
Q: What is a common mistake?
A: Overuse or misuse of a cleaning product: many products require dilution before use - meaning they're too strong to be used directly from the bottle. Again, READ THE LABELS.Q: What should someone do if they overdo it?
A: My slogan is: "The Solution to Pollution is Dilution" - if you think you've used too much of a cleaning product, simply add more water to your septic system. Running the faucet for 10 minutes will help.
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| Are your cleaning products safe for septic? |
Q: What are some septic friendly homemade solutions?
A: White vinegar is a very effective cleaner for most household surfaces. Lemon juice is also a natural wonder due to its acidic and natural disinfectant qualities. And baking soda is a great cleanser and deodorizer.
Q: Anything final thoughts?
A: Disinfectants and other harmful chemicals, including bleach, pine-scented cleaners, rug cleaners and floor wax, should be used sparingly and infrequently. And, disposing household chemicals down the drains can have a negative impact on your septic system and should be avoided.
Other Q & A Discussions:
Laundry Products
Better Than Septic
(844) 224-2782 (AQUA)
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