Drano and Septic Systems: What to Know

Drano is a popular drainage cleaner that most homeowners are skeptical about using on their septic systems. No one wants to put anything down the drain that is not water or waste. Even though a septic system may not be considered delicate, you cannot just put anything through it, as the wrong substance can upset its balance. If you are wondering whether there are some risks associated with Drano, read on to find out.

How Does a Septic System Work?

Before knowing whether you should use Drano, it is first important to understand how septic systems work. A septic system uses the healthy bacteria found in the leach field to break down waste. The process sterilizes the wastewater, after which the water is released back to the earth through the soil. Some things can be broken down in the leach field, and some cannot. That is why a professional plumber will warn you about never pouring some items down the drain, such as:

• Diapers
• Toilet wipes
• Cigarette butts
• Greases, oils, and fats
• Medication
• Feminine hygiene products
• Condoms
• Car litter
• Coffee grounds

Generally, anything that is not wastewater is likely to affect your septic system.

Should You Use Drano?

Drano has been designed to create a strong chemical reaction that is powerful (toxic) enough to eliminate anything that may have caused a blockage. On the positive side, Drano or any other drain cleaners you buy in the store are effective in eliminating some types of blockages in the pipes. But the question is, should you use it on your septic system?

The simple answer is that it is not a good idea to use it. Earlier, we mentioned healthy bacteria that breaks down waste before water is released into the soil. So before using Drano, there are some septic system considerations you have to think about. Because Drano is a toxic or powerful substance, it can reduce or completely eliminate healthy bacteria. That means waste will not be broken down, and this can also be the start of many other issues with your drain system.

What to Do?

Now that we have covered Drano risks, you are probably asking yourself what the right way to get rid of the blockage down your drain is? If it is hair, use a drain cleaner and if it is grease, check whether you can locate the exact place where the blockage is and clean that section. However, if you are not sure what could be blocking your drainage, get in touch with a septic professional. Trying to DIY is never a good idea, as you could cause further damage or even risk injuring yourself. If you touch something harmful, you might also end up sick.

A septic system technician knows what to do and has the right tools for the job for safety purposes. Instead of trying to do this on your own, get in touch with us today. At Countryside Construction Inc, we have professionals that know how to handle drain clog issues and septic systems. We will help remove the blockage safely without compromising your septic system.

Categorised in: Septic Services

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