It’s important to take the right precautions when using drain cleaners in order to ensure that you are not damaging your septic system. Not all drain cleaners are safe for use with septic systems, so it’s important to know which ones will work best and won’t cause any damage.
In this blog post, we will discuss what type of drain cleaner is safe for septic systems and how you can choose one that won’t harm your plumbing or the environment. We’ll also provide some tips on how to properly use these products so that you can get the most out of them and keep your drains running smoothly.
Our Top Picks
- Green Gobbler Drain Cleaner – Our #1 recommendation for those looking for a good septic-safe drain cleaner.
- CLR – Another great option for those looking for an effective drain cleaner.
Importance of choosing a drain cleaner that is safe for septic systems
Using the wrong drain cleaner can have disastrous consequences for your septic system and the environment. Drain cleaners that are not designed for use with septic tanks may contain harsh chemicals which could damage or corrode pipes, contaminate groundwater or disrupt natural bacterial processes within the tank.
Furthermore, certain types of drain cleaners may also be harmful to people and animals if they come into contact with them. Therefore, choose a drain cleaner specifically designed for use in septic tanks in order to ensure safety and protect your plumbing system from any potential harm.
What to consider when choosing a drain cleaner
When choosing a drain cleaner for use with septic systems, it is important to consider factors such as the active ingredients used in the cleaning product and its suitability for the type of septic system you have. It is also important to look at the sewer pipe material that needs to be cleaned as some cleaners may not be suitable for certain piping materials.
To choose the right drain cleaner for your septic system, you should also consider its environmental impact and read any safety precautions or usage instructions provided by the manufacturer carefully. Additionally, it is also important to follow any best practices outlined by local authorities for maintaining your septic system and keeping it in good working order.
Ingredients to Avoid
When choosing a drain cleaner for your septic system avoid products that contain ingredients such as bleach, ammonia, or phosphates. These chemicals can harm the bacteria that naturally break down waste in your septic tank, and may corrode your pipes or disrupt natural bacterial processes within the septic tank.
Effectiveness of natural and chemical cleaners
The effectiveness of natural and chemical cleaners for septic systems depends on various factors such as the type of clog, the size of the tank, and the pH level of the septic system.
Natural cleaners are generally found to be healthier and safer for people and the environment, but they may not be as effective at clearing stubborn clogs or removing buildup from pipes.
There are four main methods for unclogging drains: using acids, bases, oxidizers, or mechanical methods. Acids, like hydrochloric or muriatic acid, can effectively dissolve most clogs and remove rust and corrosion from metal pipes. However, they may also cause leaks in older pipes that are mostly rust. Bases, such as lye, are effective at dissolving grease and other biological clogs and won’t damage pipes, but can damage aluminum pipes.
Oxidizers like bleach can sometimes clear clogs, but may also corrode metal pipes and harm rubber. Mechanical methods, such as augers or snake tools, are generally safer for both you and the pipes, but can still damage weakened metal pipes. It’s important to carefully consider the type of clog and the condition of your pipes before choosing a method to clear the drain.
Recommended drain cleaners for septic systems
If you absolutely have to use a drain cleaner, there are a number of options that are specifically designed for use with septic systems.
- Natural options for unclogging drains include enzymes, bacteria cultures, baking soda and vinegar.
- Chemical options for septic system drain clogs include septic-safe cleaners that contain enzymes, sulfuric acid, or hydrogen peroxide. One of the most popular septic-safe drain cleaners on the market today is Green Gobbler.
Green Gobbler Drain Cleaner
Green Gobbler is a powerful and effective drain cleaner that dissolves hair, soap, toilet paper, and flushable personal care wipes, making it easy to clear clogged drains. The dual-chamber bottle contains two pre-measured applications for easy use and is safe for use in pipes, toilets, sinks, tubs, and showers, as well as septic systems. The formula is non-corrosive to pipes and does not contain bleach or sodium hydroxide
Maintenance tips to prevent clogged drains
- Proper disposal of grease and oil – Grease and oil should never be poured down the drain or flushed down the toilet. Instead, these substances should be disposed of in a sealed container and taken to a recycling center or local hazardous waste facility.
- Use a drain catcher – A drain catcher can help prevent food waste and hair from entering your septic system, reducing the chance of a clog.
- Avoiding flushing non-biodegradable items – It is important to avoid flushing non-biodegradable items like paper or plastic, as these materials can clog your septic system and cause a backup.
- Regularly inspecting your septic system – Periodic inspection of your septic tank and pipes will help you identify any potential problems early on so that they can be addressed before they become serious.
- Regularly cleaning and maintaining your septic tank – Maintaining your septic tank and pipes is an important part of preventing clogs and backups. Regularly cleaning out buildup from the tank, checking for any leaks or cracks, and getting regular pumping services can help keep your system running smoothly.