What Should Not Go Down a Drain if I Have a Septic System?

1. Food Waste

Many types of food waste can harm your septic tank's efficiency. For example, coffee grounds tend to stick together in masses that are difficult for the bacteria in the septic tank to break down. The same is true for starchy foods like potato peels. Meanwhile, eggshells tend to stick to the sides of pipes, causing potential clogs. Finally, cooking oils and fats may be the worst offenders since they're sticky and tend to congeal. They can clog pipes and septic tank distribution lines and even oversaturate drainage fields. Disposing of food waste appropriately—either in the garbage or compost, depending on the item—will safeguard your system.

2. Hygiene Products

Hygiene products like pads and tampons can't be effectively broken down by the bacteria in the septic tank, so they simply sit in the tank, slowly overwhelming it. This makes it harder for your tank to process wastewater properly and, in some cases, can even result in sewage backing up into the house. You can keep a waste bin in the bathroom for hygiene products and—since not everyone is familiar with septic system rules—consider posting a note for guests asking them to dispose of these items appropriately.

3. Chemicals

Household products like paint and cleaning solutions contain chemicals that interfere with the organic process of bacterial breakdown in a septic tank. If these chemicals reach the groundwater after being filtered through the tank and sifting through gravel and soil into the drain field, they may also harm the environment. Check the label of any household products for information on how to dispose of them safely. The Environmental Protection Agency also has a helpful guide for any products you're uncertain of.