How Hair Affects Your Septic System

Pipe Clogs

Hair is elusive and usually ends up in the septic tank despite your efforts. Whether it is washing, combing, or conditioning, hair can clamp up in your pipes and trap debris. This can obstruct wastewater flow and cause nasty surprises like backups, slow drains, and foul smells. If you notice any of these telltale signs of a hair clog, contact a professional septic company to clean your system and restore efficiency.

Drainage Damage

As mentioned, hair clogs can obstruct wastewater flow. When this happens, it can lead to oversaturation, drainfield damage, and costly septic tank repair services. Regularly check for sign of drainage damage, such as pooling wastewater, greener patches of grass near the leach field, and sewer smells, call a septic company immediately.

Septic Tank Overload

Hair does not break down easily, clamping together in the tank. Over time, the solid waste levels increase drastically, causing overloads and frequent septic tank pumping sessions. If your tank is full after cleaning it recently, you may be dealing with hair buildup in the tank. Consult a professional septic company to inspect, diagnose, and recommend the best course of action to maintain optimum efficiency.

How to Prevent Hair from Damaging Your Septic System

While hair poses significant risks to your wastewater treatment system, you can take preventive measures to keep your unit in top condition. Here’s how you can prevent hair damage to help you save money in the long run without compromising functionality and safety.

Use Drain Covers

Install a perforated or mesh drain covers in your showers and sinks to trap hair before it enters your plumbing. However, covers need regular cleaning and replacement. If providing your drain covers with regular care is overwhelming, invest in routine septic tank pumping and maintenance. Professional technicians use this time to remove accumulated waste and inspect for underlying signs of deterioration.

Dispose of Hair Properly

Most people brush or comb their hair in the shower or a sink. This is common when washing and conditioning your hair, or following a beauty regimen. It is advisable to dispose of hair properly, like disposing in the trash instead of rinsing them down your drains. If you shave facial hair regularly, consider alternative areas rather than your bathroom sink.

Regular Septic Maintenance

Lastly, scheduling routine maintenance like septic tank cleaning and pumping goes a long way to prevent hair-related issues. A professional septic service leverages extensive knowledge and experience to inspect, diagnose, and fix underlying problems before they worsen and wreak havoc.

Hair is one of the many non-biodegradable materials that can end up in your wastewater treatment system. By following these helpful tips, you can protect your system from damage and inefficiencies. Contact us at Rooter Man Plumbing to maintain a healthy and balanced septic tank environment for years. We provide comprehensive services, including septic tank installation and maintenance to address your waste disposal needs effectively.