What should not be placed into a septic system?

The correct answer identifies that grease, chemicals, and non-biodegradable materials should not be placed into a septic system because they can severely harm its functionality and lifespan.

Grease can create clogs in the system, disrupting the flow of wastewater and leading to potential backups. Chemicals can disrupt the natural bacterial processes that are essential for breaking down solid waste in the septic tank. Non-biodegradable materials can accumulate over time, filling the tank and necessitating more frequent pumping, which can increase maintenance costs and reduce the overall efficiency of the system.

Food scraps, while also not ideal, are generally biodegradable and can break down in a septic system if kept to a minimal amount. Rainwater can overwhelm the system if it enters too frequently, but it’s usually acceptable as long as it doesn’t exceed the tank’s capacity. Lastly, human waste is the primary purpose for septic systems and is designed to be processed within them.