As Halloween creeps closer, it’s the perfect time to unearth the eerie truths hidden within your septic tank. At Priority Pumping, we’ve seen it all—literally. When we inspect or pump your system, nothing remains hidden. Your septic tank doesn’t keep secrets; it reveals everything you’ve been flushing, even the things you wish would stay buried. Your septic tank doesn’t lie!
The Spooky Surprises in Your Tank
You’d be amazed—or horrified—by what we find during our septic inspections. From so-called “flushable” wipes to dental floss and even feminine hygiene products, the items we pull out can be downright spooky. These things don’t just vanish into thin air when you flush them; they linger in your tank, causing blockages, backups, and serious damage to your system. The truth is, your toilet handles only human waste and toilet paper—nothing more.
When non-biodegradable items make their way into your septic tank, they don’t break down like they should. Instead, they sit there, creating clogs that disrupt the flow and function of your system. These blockages can lead to some terrifyingly expensive repairs and are far from pleasant to deal with. We often see homeowners shocked by what their tanks reveal during an inspection.
Why "Flushable" Isn't Always Flushable
One of the scariest misconceptions about septic systems is the belief that items labeled “flushable” are safe to send down the toilet. Many products, such as wipes, cotton swabs, and sanitary items, are marketed as flushable, but they don’t disintegrate like toilet paper does. These items stick around in your septic tank, leading to blockages and potential system failure. The labels might be misleading, but your septic tank won’t be fooled.
What Should You Flush?
To avoid turning your septic tank into a horror show, it’s essential to be mindful of what you flush. Stick to the 3 P’s: pee, poo, and toilet paper. These are the only things that should ever make their way down your toilet. If you’re ever unsure about whether something can be flushed, it’s always safer to throw it in the trash.
Flushing non-biodegradable items might seem harmless, but over time, they can accumulate in your septic tank and cause serious problems. By sticking to the basics and being cautious with what goes down the drain, you can keep your septic system running smoothly and avoid those nasty surprises.
How To Protect Your Septic System
Maintaining a healthy septic system isn’t as scary as it sounds. By being cautious about what you flush and mindful of your system’s needs, you can keep it functioning smoothly for years to come. Here are a few tips to help you avoid any septic system horrors:
Regular Inspections: Schedule routine inspections to catch potential problems before they turn into nightmares. Regular checks help ensure your system is functioning properly and can prevent costly repairs.
Pump Your Tank Regularly: Depending on the size of your household and tank, you should pump your septic tank every 2-3 years. Regular pumping helps remove solid waste that accumulates over time and keeps your system running smoothly.
Mind What You Flush: Stick to flushing only the 3 P’s. (Pee, Poo and T.P.)
Anything else should go in the trash. This simple habit can save you from a lot of trouble down the road.
Educate Your Household: Make sure everyone in your household understands what can and can’t be flushed. A well-informed household is your first line of defense against septic system problems.
By following these tips and being mindful of what you flush, you can keep your septic system in tip-top shape and avoid turning your tank into a real-life horror story.
Remember, your septic tank doesn’t lie—it knows exactly what’s been flushed, and so do we. This Halloween, treat your septic system with care, and it will continue to serve you well. Keep the spooky surprises to the haunted houses and scary movies, not your plumbing and septic system.
