Can you use a garbage disposal with a septic system?

You must be acquainted with that every Septic system is unique.  If one septic system is working better for one user’s kitchen then it may not work for another. Highlighting the importance of considering the specific needs and limitations of your particular Garbage Disposal System.

One can use a garbage disposal with a septic system. Manufacturers now offer garbage disposal systems specifically designed for use with septic systems. But even with these special devices, caution and safety gaudiness are advised. 

Facts and Figures

• After extensive research and studying several systems, a 2019 study found little significant impact on the frequency of pumping needed for septic systems fitted with garbage disposals. This conclusion was drawn from the observation that food waste from disposals is largely biodegradable, thus posing negligible utility challenges.
• In synchrony with this research, a 1998 paper from InSinkErator based on the research from the University of Wisconsin echoes a similar sentiment. It highlighted the cost-effectiveness of using a garbage disposal in homes with septic systems for both municipalities and homeowners. This illuminates the financial advantage gained by using these systems, in addition to the environmental benefits.

Understanding the Cost-Effectiveness of Garbage Disposals 

When considering the economic facet, garbage disposals, when used in residences with septic systems, have demonstrated measurable cost-effectiveness according to research by the University of Wisconsin, which is summarized in a 1998 paper by InSinkErator. This cost-effectiveness derives from decreased municipal expenses related to the management of food waste and reduced homeowners’ expenditures on septic system maintenance.

Biodegradability and Frequency of Pumping

The link between the biodegradation rate of food waste and the frequency with which septic systems are pumped is of interest. Biodegradability refers back to the potential of substances to break down and return to nature. In the case of meal waste transported using a landfill, this technique can significantly affect sewer efficiency and protection.

Operational Compatibility

Garbage disposers display remarkable effectiveness in grinding food waste, typically not causing any obstruction to the pipe between the disposer and the septic tank. However, discrepant substances like hair or candy wrappers, which are not biodegradable, are more prone to causing issues and may require more frequent pumping. 

Assess More Than Food

The University of Minnesota, commissioned by InSinkErator, has presented findings indicating that garbage disposals increase both the organic loading and the chemical oxygen demand in septic systems. This, in turn, may necessitate modification in the usage of garbage disposals and increase the upkeep of septic systems. 

Mindful Garbage Disposal Use

When it comes to a home fitted with a garbage disposal appliance and septic system, homeowners should use the disposal sparingly. This will keep the waste levels manageable and may decrease the necessity for frequent pumping or other intensive maintenance tasks. 

Pumping Frequency and Routine Maintenance

As a typical guideline, septic tanks necessitate pumping every three to five years but using garbage disposal regularly could shorten this interval. Hence, garbage disposal fitted into a septic system warrants close attention and regular maintenance to ensure optimal operation and longevity.

Potential Issues with Using a Garbage Disposal with a Septic System 

Using a garbage disposal with a septic system might lead to increased waste, necessitating more frequent pumping. Getting your septic system pumped or inspected more frequently might become a routine if you decide to use a garbage disposal. 

While garbage disposers are generally effective in grinding food waste, which should not cause any blockage in the pipeline leading to the septic tank, non-food waste such as hair and candy wrappers can indeed cause issues. These non-biodegradable elements are more likely to create problems, as they can clog the pipeline. 

How do we cope with those issues?

Avoiding Non-Biodegradable Items 

Everything you put down your garbage disposal will make it smoothly to the septic tank. It may be curious to see. But it may not happen. Non-biodegradable substances such as fur and candy wrappers are the main offenders for clogging your disposal system. As a result, these materials cannot break down naturally in the tank and become stuck in the pipeline, revealing into larger issues.  

Specific Food Scraps to Steer Clear of

When it involves meal scraps, certain ones spell disaster on your rubbish disposal and septic device. Foods such as coffee grounds, pasta, bread, rice, large animal bones, fruit pits, shells or nuts, eggshells, onion layers, and stringy greens ought to be kept out of the disposal. Instead of being nicely damaged, these objects can stay within the tank, interfering with its overall performance and probably leading to malfunctions.

Maintain a Loyal Septic System: The Dos and Don’ts 

For those concerned about causing septic tank overflow, the key is mindful usage. Using the garbage disposal sparingly and avoiding larger food items such as dense meat, bones, and vegetable peelings can help prevent this. Also, be cautious about materials that should never go in the disposal, like fats, grease, and non-food items to propagate their longevity. Consider these guidelines as your roadmap to maintaining a functional, loyal septic system.

An Achievable Reality 

Despite the circulating apprehensions, the dream of using a garbage disposal with a septic system can be a reality. This can be achieved without compromising the efficiency and longevity of your septic system, as long as you maintain regular maintenance schedules and use the disposal system effectively and sparingly. 

Managing a Garbage Disposal with a Septic System 

Experts, such as those from Disposal Smartly always advise some protective measures to use a garbage disposal with a septic system. 

• The dominant rule is observing what goes down your drain. 
• Mainly organic waste should be disposed of using the garbage disposer as these can be easily broken down and processed by the septic system. 
• Care should be taken to ensure that non-biodegradable waste is not sent down the disposal as it may lead to clogging. 
• Additionally, the septic system should be pumped and inspected more frequently than usual to preempt any potential issues resulting from overuse or blockage. 
• With the proper precautions, it is indeed feasible to use a garbage disposal with a septic system.

Guidelines by Company Owners to use a Septic Tank with Garbage Disposal

Balancing Garbage Disposal Usage and Septic System Health 

The key to a functional and thriving septic system while using garbage disposal lies in the balance. While it is reasonable to utilize garbage disposal, the practiced limitation can make a significant difference. Using the garbage disposal economically is a smart and practical strategy to implement. 

The Impact on Septic Tank Bacteria 

Moreover, limited usage of septic garbage disposal can substantially help in preserving the considerable amounts of bacteria in the tank. This bacteria is crucial to the smooth functioning of the septic tank, breaking down waste efficiently and maintaining the overall well-being of the system. 

Additional Inspections Can Reduce Problems 

Another measure to consider while using a garbage disposal in conjunction with a septic tank system is an uptick in routine inspections. Regular checks can reveal any burgeoning issues enabling you to take swift corrective measures, thus averting hefty repair expenses and system complications down the line. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, balancing garbage disposal usage and maintaining the health of your septic system is indeed an achievable reality. But it requires active and ongoing engagement from you, the homeowner. Through regular maintenance and mindful usage, you can enjoy the convenience of garbage disposal while ensuring your septic system operates effectively. 

Be cautious of what goes down your drain. Non-biodegradable items like trash, paint, cigarette butts, paper towels, cat litter, oil, coffee beans, and sanitary napkins are troublemakers that don’t belong in your disposal or septic system. 

So, yes, while combining garbage disposal and a septic system does ask of you a bit more vigilance and care, the benefits of accomplishing this balance are worthwhile. Happy disposing!