The term “flushable” wipes is actually very misleading because they are in fact never truly flushable…at least not without facing the consequences. These products, when flushed into your sewer system, are both costly and create a long list of problems that could easily be avoided. Flushable wipes do much more harm than good, and to save your wallet, your neighbors, and your sewer system, the best option is to keep them out of your toilet. After the hefty bill and the damages they cause to your pipes, it’s a wonder why anyone would continue to use them.
1. Slower Break Down Than You Think
You would assume that when you flush these wipes they immediately begin disintegrating, but they actually take much longer to break down. Ordinary toilet paper typically takes around 24 hours to break apart, whereas flushable wipes would take weeks and can even remain intact in your pipes for months. Flushable wipes are typically made of wood pulp fibers, yet some companies include microplastics that hinder the decomposition process. Although these wipes are considered biodegradable, it can take weeks or even months before they completely break down and a lot of damage can happen within that time, putting your toilet, indoor plumbing, and sewer system at risk.
2. Flushing Doesn’t Make it Go Away
Even if wipes do not clog going down, there is still a chance for blockage in your home’s sewer system. A clogged septic tank or home sewer system can cause sewer to back up into your bathrooms, sinks, and bathtubs etc. If you have community sewer it can even backup your neighboring homes or businesses. When flushable wipes accumulate, frequent pumping will be necessary to prevent these backups which can be very costly.
3. F.O.G.
As the wipes travel through your sewer pipe, they create large masses known as fatbergs. If these “fatbergs” aren’t removed promptly, they can quickly become a major problem for everyone in the area. Sewers can be backed up by these fatbergs which may cause homes, businesses, and other nearby sites to be flooded. Furthermore, when fatbergs begin to decompose, health risks develop because they can contaminate waterways that could lead to the spread of disease.
4. You Will Lose Money
It is an expensive process to repair the havoc that flushable wipes cause. From repairing drain pipes and sewer systems, to home and business repairs. this can get extremely costly. For a more extensive job, it can cost thousands of dollars. Even for simple unclogging, you would be spending hundreds of dollars.
5. You Shouldn’t Use Flushable Wipes in Older Homes
Older homes are more vulnerable to the destruction that could come from flushable wipes in your sewer system. Older homes typically have more fragile pipes which can promote the growth of roots throughout your home’s pipelines. This arises because trees grow when there is moisture and nutrients. Once roots grow, this will only cause more blockage and the breakdown process will take even longer.
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Gainey’s is a partner you can rely on that specializes in wastewater treatment and underground precast concrete drainage and sewer structures. Learn more about our business and the services we offer. Contact us with any questions you may have!
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