Three Ways to Keep Things Flushing Smoothly This Summer

Whether you own a home on a septic system or a downtown restaurant with frequent bathroom goers - this post is for you. The last thing anyone wants is an overflowing toilet, or slow draining sinks and showers, so follow these tips from the Clean Earth team, to keep things flushing smoothly. Your customers (or family!) will thank you for a great bathroom experience.

• ONE: Watch What You Flush
  This should go without saying, but if you have guests at your home often or you own a downtown restaurant that has old pipes, it's especially important that people follow the "what not to flush" rules. Hang a sign or print out some reminders to put in each bathroom stall that states the following:  Please Do Not - Under Any Circumstances - Flush the Following: feminine products, baby wipes, makeup wipes or any type of "flushable" wipe, grease, paint or chemicals, paper towels, napkins, trash, tampons, or non-toilet paper products. If people can stick to these rules then you should easily avoid a backup - at least an easily preventable backup. If you run an AirBnB or have rental properties, a cute sign like this one can be a huge help!

• TWO: Preventative Maintenance is Key
  The average septic tank requires a clean-out every 2-3 years. When we pump out your tank, we'll remove the top layer of "sludge" that accumulates after the healthy bacteria in your tank have done their job, breaking down the solids in your tank. We'll make sure everything is working properly and that your tank levels are normal and healthy. Without routine maintenance, solids can build up and waste water, chemicals, wipes, feminine products etc can cause bacteria levels to fluctuate.
  
  If your home or business is not on a septic system, your backup may not come from a septic tank, but from old city pipes or clogged drain lines. We offer routine jetting service to keep your lines open so your sinks and drains flow freely. From septic emergencies to grease traps and more, our team is happy to help - but the key is to stay on top of things with preventative maintenance. Always have your grease trap serviced on time, and monitor your restrooms to be sure things are working properly before you host a large event. Learn more about our Elmira, NY septic services here.

• THREE: Skip the Garbage Disposal and Never Try a DIY "Fix"
  Garbage disposals can increase the amount of solids in your septic tank by up to 50% - that's a recipe for disaster. If you have a septic system, avoid a garbage disposal at all costs, and never try a "DIY" fix when it comes to the bacteria in your septic tank. We've read countless articles that recommend adding anything from rotten tomatoes to yeast to beer to citrus fruits to your septic tank - in hopes of "balancing out the bacteria." Let us be the first to tell you, these DIY ideas are horrible.
  
  Do not ever introduce additional solids to your septic tank or attempt to flush chemicals in an attempt to reset things. If you are looking for a trusted septic solution, we recommend the product Waste & Grease Eco-Friendly Digestant. This is a formulated septic system additive, designed to introduce healthy bacteria to your septic system once a month. The monthly treatment can help keep your septic system healthy, and we stand by this product because it works.

To keep your septic system and drain lines open, remember the big three: be careful what you flush, invest in preventative maintenance and say no to the garbage disposal. If you can follow these simple tips your home or business will be flushing smoothly all summer long. For those occasions when things aren't going as planned, give us a call. We offer 24/7 emergency septic service in the Twin Tiers Region to tackle backups and clogs, day or night.