Septic tanks are an essential part of a household’s wastewater treatment system. They treat and dispose of the sewage that comes from toilets, sinks, showers, and other water sources in your home. Septic tanks rely on natural bacteria to break down solid waste, allowing the effluent or liquid waste to flow into the drain field and seep into the soil for further treatment.
The main advantage of dissolving flushable wipes in septic tanks is that it helps prevent clogs and costly repairs. Flushable wipes can get caught in your septic system and cause blockages when flushed down the toilet.
This can lead to backups, slow drains, or even complete septic system failure. In this blog post, You will learn in detail how to dissolve flushable wipes in septic tank.
Step-by-step Instructions for How to Dissolve Flushable Wipes in Septic Tank
Step 1: Inspect the Flushable Wipes
First, check the label of the flushable wipes to ensure that they are indeed safe for septic systems. Some brands may claim to be flushable but can still cause clogs and damage to your septic tank.
Before attempting to dissolve the flushable wipes, ensure you have all the necessary tools and materials. This includes protective gear such as gloves and goggles, a plunger, and a long plumbing snake.
Step 2: Turn Off the Water Supply
To prevent any potential overflow or backflow of water during the dissolving process, turning off the water supply to your toilet is important. This can usually be done by turning the valve located behind the toilet.
Using a plunger, create suction in the toilet bowl to try and dislodge any visible clogs caused by the flushable wipes. This may take several attempts and can be messy, so make sure to wear protective gear.
Step 3: Try a Plumbing Snake
If the plunger does not work, you may need to use a plumbing snake. Insert the snake into the toilet drain and manually rotate it to break apart any clumps of flushable wipes that may be stuck in the pipes.
Boil a pot of hot water and slowly pour it down the toilet. The hot water should help dissolve any remaining flushable wipes and clear out the pipes. Depending on the severity of the clog, you may need to repeat this step a few times.
Step 4: Use a Chemical Drain Cleaner
If all else fails, you can use a chemical drain cleaner specifically designed for septic systems. Be sure to carefully follow the instructions on the label and use protective gear, as these cleaners can be corrosive.
If none of the above methods work, it may be time to call a professional plumber. They have the specialized tools and expertise to safely dissolve flushable wipes without damaging your septic tank.
Step 5: Avoid Flushing Flushable Wipes
It is best to avoid flushing flushable wipes to prevent clogs and save yourself from the hassle of dissolving them. Instead, dispose of them in the trash.
It is important to have your tank pumped every 3-5 years to maintain a healthy septic system and prevent clogs. This will also ensure that any remaining debris from flushed items, including flushable wipes, is properly removed from your septic tank.
By following these simple steps, you can effectively dissolve flushable wipes in your septic tank and avoid costly damages. Always use caution and protective gear when attempting DIY plumbing solutions; if all else fails, don’t hesitate to call a professional for help.
Precautions for How to Dissolve Flushable Wipes in Septic Tank
- Read the Label: Before purchasing any flushable wipe, make sure to read the label carefully. Look for keywords such as “septic-safe” or “biodegradable.” These wipes are designed to dissolve easily in water and will not harm your septic tank.
- Use Only Flushable Wipes: It is important to only flush wipes that are labeled as “flushable.” Other types of wipes, such as baby wipes or makeup wipes, are not designed to dissolve in water and can cause clogs and backups in your septic system.
- Limit the Use of Flushable Wipes: While they may be convenient, limiting the use of flushable wipes in your household is best. Using them sparingly will reduce the chances of clogs and backups in your septic tank.
- Don’t Flush Too Many at Once: Even if the wipes are labeled as “flushable,” it is still important to flush them one or two at a time. Flushing too many at once can overwhelm your septic system and lead to clogs.
- Add Enzyme Cleaners: Adding enzyme cleaners to your septic tank can help break down any remaining residue from the flushable wipes. These cleaners promote the growth of beneficial bacteria that help break down waste and keep your septic system running smoothly.
- Regularly Pump Your Septic Tank: It is important to have your septic tank pumped regularly, especially if you use flushable wipes in your household. This will help prevent buildup and clogs in your septic system.
- Dispose of Non-Flushable Items Properly: Remember to always dispose of non-flushable items, such as baby wipes or feminine hygiene products, in the trash. Flushing these items can cause serious damage to your septic system and should be avoided.
Following these precautions can help prevent clogs and backups in your septic system and keep it running smoothly. Remember to always read labels carefully, limit the use of flushable wipes, and properly dispose of non-flushable items to ensure the health and longevity of your septic tank.
Common Misconceptions for Dissolving Flushable Wipes in Septic Tank
1. Flushable wipes are safe for septic tanks
Contrary to their name, flushable wipes are not actually safe for septic tanks. While they may be designed to break down in the pipes, they do not easily dissolve in water and can build up in your septic tank over time. This can lead to clogged pipes and overflowing tanks, causing costly damage to your septic system.
2. All brands of flushable wipes are the same
Not all flushable wipes are created equal. Some may claim to be safe for septic tanks, while others do not. It’s important to read the label and check for any specific warnings or instructions before flushing them down your toilet.
3. Flushing one or two flushable wipes won’t make a difference
One of the biggest misconceptions is that flushing a few flushable wipes down the toilet won’t cause any harm. However, even small amounts can accumulate and cause blockages in your septic system. It’s always best to avoid flushing them altogether.
4. Septic tank additives can break down flushable wipes
Septic tank additives may promise to break down waste and keep your septic system running smoothly, but they are ineffective in breaking down flushable wipes. In fact, using too many additives can even disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in your septic tank, causing more harm than good.
5. Flushing flushable wipes is better than throwing them in the trash
Many people believe that flushing flushable wipes is a more convenient and hygienic option compared to throwing them in the trash. However, this is different for septic tank owners. Disposing flushable wipes in the trash can prevent clogs and damage to your septic system.
6. Flushable wipes are biodegradable
While some flushable wipes may be made from biodegradable materials, they do not break down as easily and quickly as toilet paper does. This means that even if a wipe is labeled as biodegradable, it can still cause problems for your septic tank.
7. All disposable wipes are flushable
Disposable wipes may seem similar to flushable wipes, but they are not designed to dissolve in water like flushable wipes are. These types of wipes can also cause clogs and damage to your septic system if flushed down the toilet. It’s important to always read the labels and dispose of these wipes properly in a trash can.
Mechanical Agitation Techniques for Dissolving Flushable Wipes in Septic Tank
Several mechanical agitation techniques can dissolve flushable wipes in a septic tank. These methods involve using a tool or device to physically break down the wipes and help them dissolve more quickly.
- Toilet Plunger: A toilet plunger is a common household tool that can be used to agitate the contents of a septic tank. Simply plunge the toilet multiple times to create a suction and pressure to help break down the wipes.
- Drain Snake: A drain snake is another useful tool for agitating flushable wipes in a septic tank. Insert the snake into the toilet or drain and twist it around to physically break up the wipes.
- Power Washer: A power washer can also be used to agitate the contents of a septic tank. Direct the high-pressure water stream toward the area where the wipes are located to help break them apart.
- Compressed Air: In some cases, compressed air can be used to agitate and dissolve flushable wipes in a septic tank. Use a nozzle attachment to direct the air towards the wipes and break them down.
- Mixing Tool: Specialized tools designed specifically for mixing and agitating septic tank contents are also available. These can be purchased at hardware stores or rented from equipment rental companies.
- Septic Tank Agitator: Similar to a mixing tool, a septic tank agitator is a device that attaches to the end of a hose and uses water pressure to agitate and break apart solid waste in the tank, including flushable wipes.
- Professional Pumping: If DIY methods do not work or if you are uncomfortable using mechanical agitation techniques, it is best to call a professional septic tank pumping company. They have specialized equipment and expertise to effectively dissolve flushable wipes and maintain your septic system.
It is important to note that while these mechanical agitation techniques can be effective, they should not replace regular septic tank maintenance. Flushing large quantities of flushable wipes or other non-biodegradable materials can cause serious clogs and damage to your septic system.
Risks of Flushing Flushable Wipes Instead of Properly Disposing Them
1. Clogging Your Pipes
Flushable wipes may seem convenient, but they can cause major problems for your plumbing system. Unlike toilet paper, which breaks down easily in water, flushable wipes are made with synthetic materials that don’t break down as quickly or easily. As a result, they can easily get stuck in your pipes and create clogs that require expensive repairs.
2. Damaging Your Septic System
If you have a septic system, flushing flushable wipes can be even riskier. They take longer to break down than other toilet paper and contain chemicals that can damage the natural bacteria in your septic tank. This can lead to expensive repairs or even the need for a new septic tank.
3. Causing Sewage Backups
When flushable wipes get stuck in your pipes, they can also cause sewage backups. This creates a big mess and poses a health hazard as raw sewage can contain harmful bacteria and viruses. In addition to the inconvenience and potential health risks, sewage backups can be costly to clean up and repair.
4. Contaminating Water Sources
Flushable wipes that make it through the sewage system can also cause problems for water treatment plants. Due to their synthetic materials, they cannot be easily filtered out like toilet paper and can end up contaminating water sources. This affects the environment and puts people’s health at risk if they consume contaminated water.
5. Harming Marine Life
When flushable wipes make it into our water sources, they can also harm marine life. The synthetic materials used in these wipes do not break down easily and can be mistaken for food by marine animals. This can lead to digestive problems and even death for these creatures.
6. Filling Up Landfills
Despite being marketed as “flushable,” these wipes are not biodegradable like toilet paper and can end up in landfills. With their increasing popularity, flushable wipes contribute to the already mounting waste crisis. In addition, they take a long time to decompose in landfills, adding to the pollution of our environment.
7. Creating Environmental Pollution
The production and disposal of flushable wipes also contribute to environmental pollution. The manufacturing process uses a significant amount of energy, water, and chemicals, which can lead to air and water pollution. Disposing of them improperly also adds to the pollution of our landfills and oceans.
In addition to these risks specific to flushing flushable wipes, it’s important to note that even if they are disposed of properly in the trash, they can still have negative impacts on the environment. With their synthetic materials and chemical content, these wipes do not break down easily and can take years to decompose in landfills.
Best Practices for Maintaining a Healthy Septic System
1. Regular Pumping
One of the most important ways to maintain a healthy septic system is to regularly pump it out. The frequency will depend on the size of your tank and the number of people in your household, but as a general rule, it should be pumped every 3-5 years. This will help prevent solids from building up and clogging your system.
2. Proper Disposal of Waste
Be mindful of what you are flushing down your toilet or pouring down your drains. Items such as grease, oil, feminine hygiene products, and non-biodegradable materials can wreak havoc on your septic system. These items should always be disposed of in the trash and never flushed or poured into any drain. Flushing or pouring these items into your septic system can cause blockages and lead to costly repairs.
3. Conserve Water
Conserving water is one of the biggest factors in maintaining a healthy septic system. The more water that goes through your system, the harder it has to work. This can lead to an overload of the system and cause failures. To conserve water, avoid doing multiple loads of laundry in a single day, fix any leaks in your plumbing, and use water-saving fixtures.
4. Keep Chemicals to a Minimum
Harsh chemicals can also cause damage to your septic system by killing off beneficial bacteria that help break down waste. Avoid using chemical drain cleaners, bleach, and antibacterial soaps in excess. Instead, opt for natural alternatives and only use chemicals when necessary.
5. Monitor Your Drain Field
Your drain field is a crucial part of your septic system as it helps to filter out contaminants from the wastewater before it re-enters the ground. To maintain a healthy drain field, ensure no heavy vehicles or structures are built on top of it, as this can compact the soil and affect its ability to properly filter wastewater.
6. Regular Inspections
Just like any other home system, regular inspections are essential for maintaining a healthy septic system. A professional should inspect your system every 1-3 years to check for any potential issues and ensure that everything is functioning correctly.
7. Proper Landscaping
The location of your septic system and drain field is crucial for its proper functioning. To avoid any potential damage, practicing proper landscaping techniques around these areas is essential. Avoid planting trees or shrubs with deep root systems near your septic system, as the roots can grow into the pipes and cause blockages.
8. Educate Your Household
Finally, ensure everyone in your household understands the dos and don’ts of maintaining a healthy septic system. This includes educating them on proper waste disposal, water conservation, and being mindful of what goes into your drains. By working together as a household, you can ensure that your septic system stays in good condition for years to come.
By following these best practices, you can maintain a healthy septic system and avoid costly repairs. Remember to schedule regular pumping, be mindful of what goes into your system, conserve water, and properly maintain your drain field.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is essential to remember that even though flushable wipes may be marketed as “septic-friendly,” they can still harm your septic system if not disposed of properly. These wipes do not dissolve as quickly as toilet paper, and over time, they can lead to clogs and damage in your septic tank and drain field.
Following the best practices for maintaining a healthy septic system, such as regular pumping, proper waste disposal, water conservation, and monitoring your drain field, is crucial to avoid these issues.
Additionally, educating everyone in your household on these practices can help prevent any future problems. This article has been beneficial for learning how to dissolve flushable wipes in septic tank. Make Sure the preventive measures are followed chronologically.
