Can You Use Drain Unblocker With A Septic Tank in Cumbria?

If you're a homeowner in Cumbria, you may be wondering if it's safe to use drain unblockers with your septic tank. After all, septic systems are delicate ecosystems that require a careful balance of bacteria and other organisms to function properly. Using the wrong chemicals or cleaners can upset this balance and potentially cause damage to your septic tank or the surrounding environment.

At Drainage Cumbria, we're here to help answer your questions and provide guidance on how to care for your septic system. In this landing page, we'll cover the use of drain unblockers with septic tanks in Cumbria, the importance of using bacterial cleaners instead, and some tips for maintaining a healthy septic system.

What is a Septic Tank?

First, let's start with the basics. A septic tank is a type of wastewater treatment system that is commonly used in rural areas or properties that are too far away from a municipal sewer system. These systems are designed to treat and dispose of household wastewater from toilets, sinks, showers, and washing machines.

A septic tank is typically made up of two or more chambers that are connected by pipes. The first chamber receives the wastewater, which then separates into layers of solid waste, liquid effluent, and scum (a layer of floating solids and oils). The liquid effluent then passes through the outlet pipe into a drain field or leach field, where it is absorbed into the soil and naturally filtered.

Septic tanks require regular maintenance to ensure they continue to function properly. This includes pumping out the solid waste every 3-5 years, avoiding flushing non-biodegradable items down the toilet, and using bacterial cleaners instead of harsh chemicals.

What are Drain Unblockers?

Drain unblockers are chemical products designed to dissolve and break down blockages in pipes and drains. They usually contain caustic soda or sulfuric acid, which can be very effective at clearing clogs but can also be harmful to septic systems.

When a septic tank is working properly, bacteria and other organisms in the tank help to break down and digest the solid waste. However, harsh drain unblockers can kill these bacteria and upset the delicate balance of the septic tank ecosystem. In addition, the chemicals in drain unblockers can also corrode and damage the pipes and tanks, leading to costly repairs.

Why Use Bacterial Cleaners Instead?

Using bacterial cleaners instead of drain unblockers is a safer and more eco-friendly option for maintaining your septic system. Bacterial cleaners contain enzymes and bacteria that work to break down the solid waste in your septic tank, allowing it to be digested more easily by the natural bacteria in the tank.

These cleaners are safe for septic systems because they do not contain harsh chemicals that can harm the bacteria and other organisms in the tank. In fact, they can help to promote the growth of beneficial bacteria and keep your septic system functioning properly.

Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Septic System

To keep your septic system in top condition, there are a few simple steps you can take:

• Use bacterial cleaners instead of harsh chemicals or drain unblockers.
• Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items down the toilet, such as wet wipes, sanitary products, or cigarette butts.
• Spread out your water usage over the course of the day, rather than doing all your laundry or taking long showers in one go.
• Have your septic system pumped out every 3-5 years by a professional.
• Avoid driving or parking heavy vehicles over your drain field, as this can compress the soil and damage the pipes.

By following these tips and using bacterial cleaners, you can help to maintain a healthy septic system that will last for years to come.

Contact Drainage Cumbria for Expert Advice

If you have any questions or concerns about your septic system, don't hesitate to contact the experts at Drainage Cumbria. We offer a range of septic tank services, including inspections, installations, and maintenance, to keep your system running smoothly.

Call us today on 01228 734162 or email us at [email protected] to speak with one of our experienced technicians. You can also visit our website at drainagecumbria.uk to learn more about our services and schedule an appointment.