5 Things to Think About Before You Flush

This article was written by Joni Hubred-Golden.

The Oakland County Health Division is warning homeowners to think twice before flushing disposable wipes into their septic systems. 

“Even though they are labeled as ‘flushable,’ these wipes may go down the toilet, but they are not breaking down sufficiently and are harmful to your septic system,” Kathy Forzley, Health Division manager/health officer said in a press release. “It can be costly to homeowners to unclog pipes, pumps and to replace or upgrade septic systems.”

Here are five things to think about before you flush, to ensure your septic system works well:

1. In addition to wipes, avoid dental floss, feminine hygiene products, condoms, diapers, cotton swabs, or paper towels in your septic system.
   
2. Cigarette butts, coffee grounds, cat litter, and ground-up foods from garbage can also clog your system.
3. Pump septic tanks every three to five years. Know the location of your tank.
4. Use water efficiently by washing only one or two loads of laundry a day. Repair leaky faucets and toilets.
5. Do not overuse cleaning products or dump excess cleaning products down the drain. Do not dump or flush unwanted pesticides, fertilizers, paints, solvents, or other hazardous materials down the drain.