Septic tank questions

[mistressploppy]

We've moved into a house with a septic tank. At least, I think that's what it is. I don't really know the difference between cess pits, septic tanks etc etc etc.

The previous owners just said avoid bleach and don't flush anything other than poo and bog roll!

I'm paranoid about cocking it up, so am trying to use Method cleaners etc but loads of stuff doesn't say whether or not it's safe to use with a septic tank. (But Harpic says it's ok??)

We did some painting the other week and now I don't know what to do with the painty water I washed the brushes in! (emulsion)

Any advice? We're planning to get onto mains drainage soon but I'm pregnant and due in the next few weeks so realistically it might not be for a while...

[PigletJohn]

it will be a septic tank. Cess pits have been pretty well outlawed for many years.

water from emulsion paint will be all right.

I would hesitate to use blue brush cleaner for oil paint as it contains white spirit as well as strong detergent.

Maybe give yourself a stone-filled soakaway?

[betterwhenthesunshines]

I have been advised to 'feed' the septic tank with a large carton of bio yoghurt every now and again to keep all the bugs happy. Don't know if this is true or not!

[frenchfancy]

In France you can buy special septic tank "food". I gather it is more difficult to get hold of in the UK as friends recently bought some here to take back with them.

A well fed septic tank will have no problem with a spot of bleach, but a tampon can kill it.

[HansieMom]

We have had septic tanks for 27 years, two different ones. For a new one, we put down oats to get it working. Had to get it pumped once for a loan requirement, it did not need it. Always worked perfectly. I only used small amount of bleach--a couple teaspoons in a load of laundry. One tsp bleach is enough to kill athlete's feet.

Very little toilet paper went to tank. That is very important.

We have been here four years and again no problems at all.

We do not put any grease down drains.