toilet papers

A water bottle or commercially available kit helps reduce the amount of water in the toilet reservoir so that each flush contains less water. Bricks have often been used to help displace the extra water, but they can chip and break down over time, causing mechanical damage to your toilet and drainlines.    Did you know that the quantity and quality of toilet paper you use could affect your septic system? When toilet paper breaks down it turns into its components, cellulose and lignin. If the toilet paper dissolves in your tank, it can travel into the drainfield and block the soil spaces needed for effluent treatment.
   By using toilet paper that is more durable, the paper will float to the top of the tank and add to the scum layer. The scum layer, like the rest of the septic tank contents, can quickly and efficiently be removed by septic tank pumping as needed. The more toilet paper you use, the more quickly your scum layers will build.

to flush or not to flush
   What shouldn't you flush down your toilet? Dental floss, tampons, cotton swabs, paper towels, and other bathroom items can clog and potentially damage septic components if they get trapped.

low-flow toilets
   Do you know how many gallons of water your toilet uses to clean the bowl? Most older homes have toilets with 5- to 6-gallon reservoirs while newer low-flow toilets use 1.6 gallons of water or less per flush. If you have problems with your septic system being inundated with household water, consider lowering the toilet tank reservoir if you don't already have a low-flow model.

faucet aerators and low-flow showerheads
   Faucet aerators can help reduce the volume of water entering your septic system. Low-flow showerheads or showerhead aerators are also good for water conservation.