When it comes to home management, few things cause more headaches than issues with septic systems and garbage disposals. In the public’s mind, these two systems often go hand-in-hand: you use your garbage disposal to get rid of food waste, and it ends up in your septic system. However, if not managed correctly, this convenient partnership can cause a significant amount of damage, costing thousands of dollars in repairs and maintenance. Let’s delve into the world of septic systems and garbage disposals, offering advice and guidelines on their use and maintenance.
A septic system, for those who may not know, is an underground treatment system for household wastewater. It uses natural processes to treat the wastewater and return it to the environment, typically through a drain field. The efficiency and longevity of your septic system depend on how you use it and what you put into it. This brings us to the controversial issue of garbage disposals.
A septic system can accommodate a garbage disposal. However, its use is limited. People who live in a city with public sewer service often don’t think twice about their garbage disposals because the city manages them. The city takes responsibility for any issues that may arise. However, when it comes to a septic system, you are in charge. It’s important to take extra precautions if your house has a garbage disposal.
The core issue with garbage disposals and septic systems revolves around what gets put down the disposal. Food waste, in particular, poses a serious challenge. Unlike septic-safe toilet paper, which quickly breaks down when wet, food waste remains largely intact. If you run water over a few lemon peels, for instance, there’s zero breakdown. They stay just as they are, and when they reach the septic system, they can clog up the works, resulting in expensive repairs. Therefore, we recommend starting a compost bin or simply throwing your food waste in the trash.
So, how does one manage the relationship between septic systems and garbage disposals? First, it’s crucial to understand that a garbage disposal isn’t a trash bin. Just because something can go down the disposal doesn’t mean it should. This applies particularly to food waste like vegetable peels, eggshells, and coffee grounds, which don’t break down easily and can damage your septic system.
We also recommend pumping your septic system more frequently if you use a garbage disposal often. The frequency will depend on your specific usage, but a good rule of thumb is every 2-3 years. This helps remove the solid waste that the disposal introduces into the system and can extend the life of your septic system.
But what if you’re unsure about keeping your garbage disposal? We understand. It’s a convenient appliance that makes kitchen clean-up much more manageable. And yes, your septic system can handle a garbage disposal if you follow the correct procedures.
Here are some tips to help you out:
- Be cautious of what you put in your garbage disposal. Not everything should be ground up and flushed into the septic system. Avoid hard-to-break-down items like bones, fruit pits, and fibrous vegetables.
- Regularly maintain your garbage disposal. Keep it clean and sharp to function at its best.
- Schedule regular septic system maintenance. It’s vital to regularly check your system for any potential issues.
- Consider using a septic tank additive. These additives can help break down the waste and keep your system functioning smoothly.
These are just a few of the many steps you can take every day to maintain your septic system and help it last longer. Knowing what you can and can’t put down your drains is one of these steps. This is particularly important for your kitchen sink or garbage disposal, as all drains lead directly to your septic system.
We are always available to answer your questions about septic systems and garbage disposals. We offer comprehensive septic services in Prineville, ensuring that your systems remain in optimal condition for years to come. If you have any questions or need to schedule a service, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. After all, knowledge and preventative maintenance are the keys to a long-lasting septic system and garbage disposal.
Contact Greenbar Excavation Now!
Greenbar Excavation is a family-owned business located in Prineville, Oregon that specializes in excavation, grading, and site preparation services. We have been providing these services to customers for over 20 years and are proud of our reputation as one of the best excavation companies in the area. Our team consists of experienced professionals who understand how important it is to provide quality workmanship on every job we take on.
Our Services
At Greenbar Excavation we strive for excellence when working with clients whether they need residential or commercial grade excavations. Our goal is always customer satisfaction no matter what type of job we do; from single home improvements all the way up to major industrial sites requiring extensive earthworks -we guarantee high quality results at competitive prices! With decades worth of combined industry knowledge under belt there’s nothing Greenbar Excavation can’t handle when it comes down getting ground ready for whatever purpose may require!
Don’t look any further, go with the company with your best interest in mind! We offer a multitude of services which are:
- Septic pumping
- Drainage Services
- Landscape prep
- Site grading
- Foundation excavation
- Concrete/ prep finish
- Utility trenching
- Driveways
- Septic tank replacement
- Complete septic system replacement
Call us today with any questions about our Maintaining A Septic System and check out our 5-star reviews!