Is Vinegar Safe for Septic Tanks?
For every homeowner, maintaining a septic system that includes the septic tank is a very important task that will ensure the system stays running efficiently for many years. A home’s septic tank is dependent on natural bacteria and enzymes to break down and digest waste and keep everything flowing through the system. Without the bacteria additives and enzymes, waste would build up in the tank and eventually create a blockage. The result can be septic system back up in the plumbing system which can spill in the basement and even the drain field. This would result in a very costly repair bill. In order to keep the bacterial from being killed, it is important not to put chemicals in the plumbing system that can kill the bacteria. One item that people use and pour into the plumbing system is vinegar.
Vinegar is made from the fermentation of ethanol by acetic acid bacteria. People use vinegar for a variety of tasks such as a cleaner, anti-mould agent, mild disinfectant, and as bleach. Vinegar has been shown to be an eco-friendly cleaner. As well, vinegar does not kill the bacteria in the septic tank so it is a safe product that can be poured in the drain lines. It is a safe, non-toxic way to maintain your septic system. For instance, pouring a A� cup of vinegar mixed with 2 tbsp of baking will help prevent slow flowing drains.
Because it is acidic, vinegar is an excellent cleaning agent and can be used to clean sinks, toilets, and showers. It is effective and getting rid of hard water stains. It will also eliminate any foul odours in the drains. As well, it is useful for getting rid of mineral deposits. The thicker the build up of minerals and lime scale deposits, the longer you will have to let the vinegar sit. For difficult to clean spots, you may have to let the vinegar sit overnight. After letting the vinegar sit in drains, it is important to run the hot water through the drain system to clear out the remaining vinegar and sediment. Vinegar can even be used to clean washing machines and their drain hoses. People will clean their washing machines by putting a couple of cups of vinegar in a normal water cycle without any clothes in the machine. As well, people will clean their shower curtains with vinegar to get rid of mould and mildew.
Many harsh chemical cleaners can harm a septic system and some can kill the bacteria additives and enzymes in the septic tank. Using vinegar is one way to avoid using harsh chemicals and the bacteria will not be killed so you do not have to worry about damaging your septic system. Because vinegar is a pungent acid, you should wear protective gloves, especially if you have any scratches. As well, make sure you do not splash any vinegar in eyes. Most experts recommend using vinegar in septic system maintenance because it will not ruin the septic system.
