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Can I Use Drano for My Septic System?

Any owner that has a septic system knows that some things should never be flushed or poured down the drain. However, even the most careful homes can experience clogs. The majority of people simply grab a bottle of chemical additives or Drano. However, dumping certain materials down your drain can be extremely harmful to your septic system. People with septic tanks frequently inquire about whether they can pour Drano or other drain cleaners down their drains. To properly understand the effects of Drano on your septic system, let's start by understanding how a septic system works.

How Septic Systems Work

Septic systems are underground structures that are commonly used in rural areas for treating wastewater. A drain field, also known as a soil absorption field, and a septic tank make up a typical septic system. Organic matter is broken down in the septic tank, which also separates solids and floatable matter (like oils and grease) from the wastewater. The liquid, which is called effluent, comes out of the septic tank into soil-based systems through a series of perforated pipes that are buried in a leach field, chambers, or other special units that are made to slowly release the effluent into the soil.

Septic systems need regular maintenance to keep functioning and increase their lifespan. Healthy practices like septic tank pumping and inspection will help take care of your septic system. It’s also helpful to choose a septic company in Milton you can call over for plumbing emergencies. Septic Blue has professionals that are trained for such emergencies and can help out with septic tank pumping as well.

Is Drano Helpful?

The fundamental operation of any drain-cleaning chemical is the same: elicit a chemical reaction that is both potent and harmful enough to eliminate the clog. This theory is plausible, and drain cleaners are excellent at removing obstructions from pipes. However, the straightforward solution comes with many drawbacks. They will wipe out the bacteria in your septic tank, which are necessary for waste breakdown. Without a healthy balance between the bacteria, waste will begin to accumulate. Chemicals like Drano will not only be harmful to bacteria but also permanently harm your toilet and pipes.

Chemical drain openers are extremely toxic and are no good for those delicate bacteria that break down waste. These chemicals can completely sterilize these bacteria as well as reduce their population. This can result in a number of issues, even leading to the point where professionals have to come into play. It’s best if you call a septic company either way in case there’s a bigger problem that you’re not aware of.

Substitutes for Drano

Boiling Water – Boiling water can assist in the breakdown of minor obstructions like hair, grease, and soap buildup. Bring a half gallon of water to a boil and slowly pour it into the drain.
Vinegar and Baking Soda – You can try baking soda and vinegar if your clog is still stubborn. Pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of vinegar. Pour slowly to avoid overfilling the mixture. Cover the drain for a half-hour. Then, flush the drain with hot water.

Chemical drain cleaners can be dangerous to use, extremely poisonous, and can burn the skin due to their high causticity. Even worse, they don't always work, so you end up with a sink full of chemically corrosive water that can't get out because of the same blockage you started with. A homemade drain cleaner, on the other hand, can be safe and inexpensive. Try the methods above, and if you still have a blockage after, call Septic Blue for assistance.

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Nov 18, 2024

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Substitutes for Drano

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