FAQ - Bob's Septic Service

Frequently Asked Questions

Will laundry detergents, cleaning products or bleach harm my septic system?

Under normal use, detergents, cleaning products and bleach will not damage the septic system. However, homeowners should be aware that if excessive amounts of these products are used, the naturally growing bacteria in the septic tank may be killed. Homeowners with heavy usage of these products may want to consider using an enhancer to ensure the proper bacteriological environment.

Can I use a garbage disposal with a septic system?

Yes; however, homeowners should be aware that use of a garbage disposal will cause the solids in the septic tank to accumulate more rapidly. This may dictate more frequent servicing of the septic system.

I have a pump on my septic system. Why doesn’t the system work on gravity flow, and is there any special care needed for the pump?

Pump systems are installed for a number of reasons: soil permeability, high water table, drain field elevation, size of property, etc. It is recommended that pumps be serviced annually and the pump, floats and electrical connections be inspected periodically.

Can I flush this?

What NOT to Flush:

Diapers, Cigarettes, Paper Towels,Cotton Swabs, Tampons, Condoms, Dental Floss, Facial Tissues, Wipes (none of them!), Kitty Litter.

Product labels can be misleading, Some items that claim to be "flushable" can clog your septic systems and can end up costing you a pretty penny.

"Flushable" does NOT mean is SAFE for your septic system.

Do's and Don'ts of a Septic System

Spread laundry use over the week rather than many loads on one day.
Make a permanent record of where the key parts of your system are located for future maintenance; such as tank pump-outs or field repairs.
Have your septic tank pumped out regularly (1-3 years depending on use).
Use water-conserving devices where possible. Low flush toilets and showers heads are commonly available.
Have manually cleaned lint traps on your automatic washer. Clean lint traps often or have them installed 
Check any pumps, siphons, or other moving parts of your system regularly.
Remove or prevent trees with large root systems from growing near the disposal field.
Maintain a healthy grass cover over the disposal field to use some of the water and to prevent erosion.
Keep surface water from upslope or from roof drains away from the disposal field.
Check your interceptor drain regularly to ensure that it is free-flowing.
Compost your kitchen waste.

DON’T

Overload the system with high volumes of water.
Use powdered detergent.
Connect basement sump pumps to the on-site system. 
Connect backwash from water treatment devices (Water Softeners) directly to the on-site system without professional advice. We highly recommend the installation of a dry-well.
Install a garbage disposal without consulting a Licensed Septic Professional.
Allow large amounts of fats (bacon grease – use a soup can to cool it then throw in the trash), chemicals (bleach) or solvents to enter the system.
Allow any plastics to enter the system.
Use any septic tank additives. They are not beneficial and may damage your disposal system. Active bacteria are naturally present in sewage. You can use a little bit of Baker’s Yeast once a month to promote healthy bacteria growth.
Allow vehicles or heavy equipment to drive over or park on the disposal field. This may compact the soil and crush the piping.
Plant anything over the disposal field except grass. Especially do not cover the tank or field with asphalt or concrete or other impermeable material.

DO NOT flush the following items into your septic system:

Coffee Grounds
Seeds
Disposable Diapers
Disposable Wipes
Sanitary Napkins
Cigarette Butts
Fats, Grease, and Oils
Disinfectants
Photographic Chemicals
Pills and Unused Medication
Dental Floss
Kitty Litter
Tampons
Condoms
Paper Towels
Pesticides
Other Chemical Wastes
Paints
Varnishes
Waste Oils
Poisons
Thinners

The best rule of thumb is, if it has not been consumed by you first, it does not get flushed down the toilet; excluding toilet paper.

Have a question that isn’t addressed above?

Ask us here!

DO YOUR PART - BE SMART

Proper care and maintenance of your septic system protects the public health, preserves valuable water resources, and sustains economic vitality in communities.

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