Is Drano Safe for Septic Systems? The Science vs. The Marketing

Why Does the Bottle Say “Septic Safe”?

While many homeowners wonder, is Drano safe for septic systems, especially when dealing with stubborn clogs.  It is important to first ask, is Drano septic safe or can you use Drano with a septic system? The heavily marketed term “septic safe” is not a strictly regulated term. Manufacturers use this term to reassure consumers that their product won’t instantly harm a septic tank, but it doesn’t guarantee long-term safety. The label “septic safe” on products like Drano can be misleading when considering can you use Drano on septic. The term “septic safe” doesn’t necessarily mean it’s good for the system or recommended. It usually means that small, occasional amounts of the product won’t immediately destroy your septic system or cause a regulatory violation.  

What Drano Actually Does to Your Septic Bacteria

Studies have shown that when using Drano you are essentially killing the “workers” aka the good bacteria which helps sludge breakdown and prevents your system from backing up or overflowing. An Arkansas Study (1987) found that as little as 0.4 ounces of Drano Crystal can wipe out the entire bacterial colony in a 1,000 gallon tank. A Cornell Paper (2004) has also cited that studies confirm that cumulative chemical use (cleaners + Drano) create a “toxic slug” that halts waste decomposition. Drano and other similar products are able to continue to use the term “septic safe” because when Drano is flushed down the drain, they can claim that a 1,000 – gallon tank dilutes 32 ounces which reduces the immediate chemical impact, allowing companies to claim it’s “safe” under normal use.   However, it does not instantly dilute. When it enters the septic tank it is still in a concentrated form which often sits on top of the scum layer eventually sinking into the sludge. Once it penetrates the sludge layer it begins the damage of destroying good, active bacteria.  The exposure of this product harms the bacterial balance that keeps a septic system functioning properly. Over time, this can lead to reduced efficiency, unpleasant odors, and even costly damage to the system.

Is Drano Max Gel Safe for Septic Systems?

The Drano product, Drano Max Gel, is a popular drain clearing product known for its quick and powerful solution. The problem with this product is it contains strong chemicals like sodium hydroxide and bleach which are not only dangerous to handle, but can cause damage to pipes and is extremely harmful to the septic system. When asking yourself if Drano Max Gel is safe for septic systems it is important to consider the heavy max gel that defines this product may stay in the tank and your pipes longer in a concentrated form compared to the liquid version. Although your system may appear unaffected during initial use, over time the chemicals will kill the good bacterial, corrode pipes and interfere with waste breakdown leading to costly repairs. 

Can Drano Damage Your Septic Pipes and Tank?

While Drano may seem like a convenient solution for clogged drains, the risks far outweigh the benefits. The chemicals used create a reaction that generates heat to dissolve clogs. Over time, this heat can corrode metal pipes or weaken PVC pipes, leading to leaks or even pipe failure. Older plumbing systems are especially vulnerable to this kind of damage. Once in your septic system it can etch concrete tanks and cause damage to internal components.

How to Save Your Septic System After Using Drano

From damaging pipes and endangering health to harming the environment, chemical drain cleaners create more problems than they solve. If you recently thought you can use Drano with a septic tank and used Drano or a similar product there is still time to un-do the damage. 

1. You will first want to flush the line with plenty of fresh water to help lower the pH or schedule a septic tank cleaning to remove all contents from the tank. 
2. The next step is extremely important in regards to reseeding your septic tank. We suggest using a high-potency enzymatic treatment to replace the dead bacteria. Once the system has been flushed or cleaned you will want to add a product that helps promote good bacteria growth into your septic tank. 
3. Lastly, call a pro! If you are still dealing with a clog we can address the clog in the main line while also inspecting the system to let you know of any other issues that may need addressed or that could be causing the problem. 

Septic-Safe Ways to Unclog a Drain (and When to Call Us)

It is important to remember, clogs happen, but instead of continuing to add harmful chemicals it is important to choose safe, eco-friendly alternatives to help ensure a longer-lasting, healthy septic system. Instead of relying on chemical drain cleaners which can cause more problems, consider safer and more sustainable methods such as:

1. Manual Snaking – Use a “zip-it” too; for hair clogs or a hand snake for deeper blockages. You can often rent a manual snake at your local hardware store.
2. A more natural solution of baking soda and vinegar can help break down minor blockages. Once the baking soda and vinegar sit for approximately 30 minutes flush with hot water. This method is extremely safe, will not harm your septic and has proven to be effective. 
3. Enzymatic Cleaners such as products like Bio-Clean utilize live bacteria to eat waste without killing your tanks bacterial colony.
4. The plunger is a tried-and-true method that is often the most effective tool when used correctly with a tight seal for clogs involving your toilet or shower.
5. Boiling water is another effective way to clear a clog (note: only for metal or high-grade PVC pipes). It is a natural way to unclog your pipes and is especially beneficial for grease clogs. 
6.  When in doubt, contact a reputable septic company to snake the line or inspect the system to see what may truly be going on. Oftentimes a recurring clog is a sign of a much bigger septic issue such as a full tank, clogged inlet baffle or a failing drain field. Double Flush Septic Services offers a variety of septic services including main line snaking for those pesky clogs and we are able to address other issues that may be the culprit as well. By regularly maintaining your septic system with Double Flush Septic Services you can help ensure your septic system continues to function correctly and we are always willing to answer any questions you may have regarding your system. 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT DRANO AND SEPTIC

Can I use Drano in my toilet?

No. Most plumbers advise against it because the “U-trap” in a toilet holds the chemical in place, where the heat generated can crack porcelain or melt the wax ring.

How long does it take bacteria to recover?

Usually 48-60 hours if only a small amount was used. If a full bottle was poured in, you may need a month or a professional bacterial “shock” treatment to recover.

Will flushing lots of water make Drano safe?

Dilution helps, but it doesn’t solve the problem of a “toxic slug” entering your tank. The chemical still hits the tank in a concentrated wave before it eventually disperses.

Is Drano safe for aerobic septic systems?

No. Aerobic systems are even more sensitive than traditional tanks because they rely on oxygen-loving bacteria and mechanical aerators. Drano can kill the flora and potentially corrode the air pump components.

What is the difference between Drano and Rid-X.

Drano is a chemical caustic used to dissolve organize clogs; Rid-X is a bacterial additive meant for maintenance. They are not the same thing, and they should never be mixed.

Can I use Drano if I have a cesspool?

Avoid it. Cesspools rely heavily on soil absorption through the walls. Caustic chemicals can cause the soil to “glaze” or seal up, leading to a permanent failure of the pit.