Is Your Garbage Disposal Ruining Your Septic Tank?

The reason is that food garbage from the kitchen sink goes directly into the septic tank. Overloading the septic tank with solid waste increases the chances of having serious problems with clogs, back-ups, and expensive repairs. That is why Charlotte Septic Pros is dedicated to helping homeowners keep their septic tanks in good shape.

How Garbage Disposals Affect Septic Systems

The process of garbage disposals involves breaking down food residues into smaller particles, which then get drained via the plumbing system into the septic tank. Although the particles have been broken down to very fine parts, they will still need to be treated by the septic system. The type of waste, such as meats, fibrous vegetable matter, oils, and coffee grounds, increases the quantity of solids in the septic tank.

This will eventually result in the septic tank filling up much faster than it should and hence affect its efficiency. This is why septic tank pumping needs to be done quite often if there is the use of garbage disposals at home.

What Should You Avoid Putting Down the Disposal?

Garbage disposals differ from regular trash cans so they should be handled differently. You should be extra careful when it comes to disposing of grease, oils, coffee grounds, eggshells, bones, and large quantities of food waste because they can pose challenges to your plumbing and septic system.

Furthermore, homeowners should be wary of biodegradable foods as they can lead to a heavier solid load inside the tank. You should properly dispose of your garbage as this would reduce the amount of unnecessary waste the septic system has to handle and ensure better long-term performance.

Watch for Warning Signs

Septic systems don't fail without warning. The signs of a failing system include slow drainage, unpleasant odors, gurgling toilets, or wastewater backing up into sinks.

You shouldn't ignore these warning alerts, and should take action by hiring a professional to perform septic cleaning and flush out the accumulated solids. The technician can also help diagnose the entire system.

Better Habits Can Protect Your Septic Tank

Prevention is often easier to handle than a system breakdown. Good disposal habits can help protect your septic system. The most efficient approach is to reduce stress on your system by limiting what flows into the garbage disposal. You should use the system sparingly, scrape excess food into the trash or compost when needed, and refrain from flushing grease and other problematic materials down the drain.

Homeowners can also understand the specific maintenance requirements of their system when they work with an experienced septic company.

Let Professionals Help You Keep the Septic System Working Properly

Good habits should be carried out consistently to maintain your septic system. Routine actions of knowing what enters the system, conserving water, and keeping up with professional service can all help protect your investment.

For homeowners who can't tell whether the garbage disposal is contributing to septic problems, Charlotte Septic Pros can evaluate your system and diagnose what requires attention. For more assistance, contact us and a technician will be sent to your location.