Septic tanks: What not to do

More than half a million homes in the UK have a septic tank, and most homes with private drainage have a septic tank into which wastewater from loos, showers, sinks, and washing machines is discharged. Making sure you know what not to do with a septic tank is important to avoid unnecessary damage and expenses.

Check out our list of what not to use with a septic tank, this is not a complete list as there are many other things but a basic list of everyday items. So, here are a few things you should not put in your septic tank:

• Bleach
• Paint
• Disinfectants
• Garden pesticides
• Medicines
• Solvents like white spirit
• Drain cleaning and unblocking liquids that contain caustic soda
• Cigarette butts
• Disposable diapers
• Sanitary pads & tampons
• Wipes
• Pop-off toilet brush scrubbers
• Rubbish
• Condoms
• Hair
• Plasters
• String
• Coffee grounds
• Paper towels
• anti-bacterial soaps – biodegradable soaps only!
• latex, plastic, or metallic objects
• hard toilet paper – soft is better for the tank
• Dead fish
• Kitchen grease

There are cleaning products that have been specially designed for use with septic tanks, so keep an eye out for these as they are better for your tank. If you are unsure of any issues with your septic tank, please don’t hesitate to contact us on 01386 882324.

Some of our services include:

• Septic tank installation
• Removal
• Septic tank cleaning
• Conversion of a tank to a treatment plant
• Reports and investigations
• Sorting out soakaway problems
• Advice on emptying and maintaining septic tanks