What Drain Cleaner Is Safe for Septic Systems?

Do you have a septic tank and want to avoid problematic clogs? You're probably wondering what drain cleaner is safe for septic systems in your area. 

As a trusted provider of septic tank cleaning services in Winnipeg, King's Services knows all the ways trying to clean your drains can go wrong. So, keep reading to discover everything you need to know about using drain cleaners on your septic system or call us for septic tank support services.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Cleaner

Why should you carefully consider which drain cleaner to use? The primary reason is that the bacteria in your septic tank are vital in purifying the wastewater and breaking down accumulating sewage, sludge, grease, and fat. Certain chemical-based cleaners will kill these bacteria, which could increase the frequency of blockages and septic problems.

What To Consider When Choosing a Drain Cleaner

When choosing a drain cleaning, consider the following:

Ingredients

For septic tank purposes, you should never use a drain cleaner that has bleach, ammonia, or phosphates in it. These harsh chemicals will destroy your tank's bacteria and corrode your pipes. 

Natural cleaners work well in addressing most septic tank problems. However, the type you should use depends on several other factors. Ask a professional like King’s Services to be sure before purchasing anything.

Type of Septic System

The type of septic tank you have affects its size and pH levels. Typically, you can use one of three different types of natural cleaners: acids, bases, and oxidizers. However, you should determine your system's pH level before using any natural cleaner. 

Check the levels with a PH-level meter. Alternatively, have septic tank specialists like King’s Services over for quick, affordable, and accurate readings of your tank’s pH levels.

Your pipe's construction also matters. Why?

• Acidic cleaners remove rust and corrosion from metal pipes but destroy older pipes. 
• Bases, such as lye, remove grease and fat without damaging PVC or copper but destroy aluminum pipes.
• Oxiders, like bleach, are often chemical-based. They're great at clearing certain clogs but will severely damage metal pipes that are already weak, as well as any rubber components within your system.

Environmental Impact

Besides being conscious about homes that don’t waste water, you might also want to consider the impact of cleaning solutions on your local ecosystem. For the sake of your lawn and the well-being of your community, avoid chemical drain cleaners. They’re bad for the bacteria in your tank and everything else.

Local Ordinances

Always read labels for ingredients and look for any warnings. Some cities also have laws governing the installation and maintenance of septic tanks, including how frequently to inspect them and what materials and methods homeowners and technicians can use to clean and maintain them.

Safe Cleaners for Your Septic System

What drain cleaner is safe for septic systems? Choose from the following:

Commercial Products

Countless products are safe for your septic tank and won't damage the bacteria. However, some of them may damage your pipes, depending on their material type and condition. Ask professionals like King’s Services for help if you aren’t sure.

Home-based Techniques

The following methods may clear a clog without using harmful chemicals:

• Boiling water down the drain. This may effectively clear clogs of soap scum and grease without damaging your pipes or bacteria. However, if the clog is more severe or from a more solid mass, such as wet wipes, you'll need a plumber.
• Vinegar and baking soda. This works almost as well as commercial cleaners for organic clogs without adverse consequences. A solution of 1/4 cup baking soda and 1/2 cup vinegar seems to be the perfect ratio.

Mechanical Methods

A plunger is a great tool for clearing most minor clogs, but plumbers will use one of two methods for more stubborn clogs:

• A mechanical auger or drill is the traditional method for clearing stubborn blockages from pipes. It uses a screw-like head on a long tube powered by a motor. The plumber threads it through the pipes to bore through everything from clumps of diapers to tree roots.
• Hydrojetting is a modern method that unclogs drains using pressurized water. It's effective, great for the environment, and safe for even the most sensitive pipes. It can even extend the life of your septic system.

Preventing Septic System Clogs

How can you prevent your system from clogging in the first place?

Avoid Certain Materials

• Flushable items. Even if they have the term ‘flushable’ on the package, wipes don't dissolve. They build up in your pipes, causing severe blockages.
• Kitty litter. Many varieties of kitty litter include clay to manage the smell and aid in clumping. It is almost impossible to dislodge from your pipe system.
• Coffee grounds. Coffee grounds won't dissolve in water. They easily accumulate to clog your pipes.
• Dental floss. The floss doesn't decompose and may wrap around components in your septic tank to cause problems.
• Disposable diapers. Diapers cause major problems when they inevitably clog your pipes. The same applies to dryer sheets.
• Latex. No latex products break down, which is why they also cause problems for marine life in larger bodies of water.
• Biodegradable paper. Paper towels and tissues are biodegradable. However, if you flush enough of them, they'll still cause blockages.
• Medication. Some prescription drugs and medicines don't fully dissolve. If they leak into the surrounding water, they’ll introduce toxic chemicals to the drinking water and cause many other problems.

Work with Your Plumber to Protect Your Pipe System

The best protection for drain systems is being proactive. Why not install screens or drain covers? You can prevent hair and food particles from clogging your pipes.

Alternatively, schedule an annual inspection for your plumbing and septic system to catch issues early, keep drains clear, and clean and empty your septic tank as needed.

Call King's Services for Septic Tank Help

Now that you know what drain cleaner is safe for septic systems, you can keep your pipes free of clogs. If you're wondering how long a septic inspection takes or need help, King's Services provides prompt and friendly service in Winnipeg. Call us at 431-244-4966 today!