subject: 13 Things You Must Not Put Down Your Septic Tank [print this page] 13 Things You Must Not Put Down Your Septic Tank
You pay a high price for a septic tank so you want it to work well. Harsh chemicals and non-biodegradable materials can negatively affect both septic tanks and composting toilets, and result in a high price for repairs. Specifically, you must ensure that none of the following pollutants enter your septic tank :
1. Materials that are not biodegradable (e.g. disposable nappies, tampons, rags, baby wipes and other wipes, condoms, etc.)
2. Bleach
3. Chlorine and other disinfectants
4. Caustic soda (NaOH) and other highly alkaline (pH > 9.5) or acidic (pH < 4) chemicals
5. Drain cleaners
6. Commercial cleaning products
7. Paints and solvents
8. Chemicals that are not typically used in a household
9. Pesticides and herbicides
10. Other toxic substances
11. Fats, oils and grease (except from normal kitchen use)
12. Large amounts of animal hair (this could, for example, be a problem, if you are breeding pets)
13. Also don't dump any waste directly into it, including food scraps and grass clippings, vis its access hatch
Fortunately there are quite a few things that you can do:
Use standard domestic cleaning products, as sold by major retailers, that are septic-friendly
Wipe and bin your fats and frying oils rather than rinsing them down the drain.
Use biodegradable soaps.
Choose detergents low in phosphorus and sodium. The Lanfax Laboratories investigated the phosphorus and sodium content of a wide range of laundry detergents. Their findings are published at http://www.lanfaxlabs.com.au.
This article is written b y Jenny Allen, author of the coffee table book "Smart Permaculture Design" has appeared on many gardening shows, including ABC Gardening Australia.
