If you’ve got a septic tank, you’re probably wondering if caustic soda can be used to clean your pipes or plugs if they get blocked. After all, preparations containing caustic soda are sold widely on the high street for everyday blockages and they can work very well! But is this chemical safe with septic tanks? Let’s take a closer look.
What is caustic soda?
Caustic soda is an inorganic compound made of hydroxide anions and sodium cations. It’s strongly alkaline and highly corrosive and decomposes fats, or lipids, as well as proteins. It is very soluble in water and also very effective at dissolving the fatty buildup that can occur in showers or sinks from washing agents and hair.
Being corrosive, however, it can also cause severe burns and it is also damaging to pipes and the environment. It is not suitable for septic tanks or multi-chamber waste-water treatment work systems that use anaerobic digestion to operate.
Are there better ways to clear pipes with a septic tank?
You could try using natural agents such as bicarbonate of soda and vinegar to create an acidic finish that helps to break down fats, or you could pour boiling water down the sink to see if this loosens build-up.
A manual removal is also a great option and you can try using a plunger to see if it releases any build-up. In many cases, however, it makes sense to get a professional in.
What is a better way to fix a blocked pipe?
Chemical unblockers may remove an immediate problem, but they may mask a more fundamental issue or simply push it further down the pipe.
A better way to deal with slow-running water, blocked pipes or tank issues is to call out the professionals to see what is going on. Drain experts who specialise in CCTV drain surveys Reading, such as www.drainpower.co.uk/drainage-services/cctv-drain-surveys/reading, can help you to see exactly what is going on.
So, the next time you get a blockage, think twice about your septic tank and don’t pour chemicals down the drain!
