We’ve all experienced the need to clear a wad of wet hair (yuk!) from the bathtub or shower drain, and most of us know that if too much hair makes its way down the drain, we’re gonna have to get out the plunger or resort to a caustic drain cleaner to get things flowing freely again. But there’s actually more to the hair clogs/drains/septic systems puzzle than just clearing a slow-moving drain.
The Problem With Chemical Drain Cleaners
Most plumbers will tell you they’d rather you didn’t use those caustic — albeit well-known — drain cleaners that you find on the shelves of your local supermarket. Not only are they not all that effective (especially on hair clogs), but repeated use can do a lot of damage to your pipes — not to mention the plumber’s drain cleaning tools! Even worse, if you have a septic tank, these chemicals can damage its bacterial environment and cause expensive problems.
Why Hair is a Such a Problem
Hair is tough stuff. Under the right conditions, it can last in the environment for several years! It’s composed of tough strands of proteins similar to those in your fingernails, and it’s not easily broken down by bacteria. Even if it doesn’t for years in your septic tank, it’ll almost certainly last for longer than the 24-48 hours that it sits in your septic tank. If your septic tank has a filter in the outlet baffle, the hair will become trapped there and be cleaned out the next time you have your tank cleaned (if you’ve got a really thorough septic cleaning company, that is!). However, if there is no filter, the hair will travel throughout the septic system clogging pipes or making its way to the leach field.
A Better Alternative
Luckily, there is an alternative to those caustic drain cleaners that along with hair, can wreak havoc on your septic system, leading to costly repairs or even total replacement. The best way to deal with hair clogs is with preventive maintenance. If you’ve got a clog already, the best solution is jetting or snaking. EarthCare’s septic system pros can do this and more. (We can also install a filter in your tank if you don’t currently have one.) But wait, there’s more! We also have a bacterial additive called CCLS to keep your system working the way it should. One quart every other month is usually all that’s needed, and our technicians can also “boost your system“ to further break down waste.
If you live or own a business in the tri-state (New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania) contact us for all of your septic system needs! We’re here for you 24/7, 365 days a year!