What Not to Put in a Garbage Disposal with a Septic Tank: A Comprehensive Guide
Many homeowners with septic systems wonder what they can and can't put down their garbage disposals. The truth is, even seemingly harmless items can wreak havoc on your septic system. Using your garbage disposal incorrectly can lead to costly repairs and premature septic system failure. This guide will help you understand what to avoid to keep your system running smoothly.
Understanding the Risks
Garbage disposals, while convenient, introduce a significant amount of organic waste into your plumbing system. This waste, if not managed properly, can overload your septic tank, leading to several problems:
- Clogs: Certain materials don't break down easily, leading to clogs in your pipes, garbage disposal, and even the drain field.
- Grease Buildup: Fats, oils, and grease solidify in pipes and the septic tank, hindering the proper breakdown of waste.
- Septic Tank Overload: Excessive amounts of organic matter can overtax the bacteria responsible for waste decomposition, leading to a backup.
- Pump Failure: Certain materials can damage or clog the septic tank pump.
What Absolutely Should NOT Go Down Your Garbage Disposal (with a Septic System):
1. Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG): This is the number one culprit in septic system failures. FOG solidifies as it cools, coating the inside of pipes and eventually clogging them. Never pour FOG down your drain, even if it seems like a small amount.
2. Fibrous Materials: Things like celery, artichoke hearts, corn husks, and onion skins are tough to break down and can easily wrap around the disposal blades or clog pipes.
3. Hard or Dense Foods: Avoid putting things like bones, fruit pits, eggshells, coffee grounds (in large quantities), and nuts down your disposal. These items can blunt or damage the blades.
4. Starchy Foods: Large quantities of starchy foods like pasta, rice, and potatoes can create a thick sludge that is difficult for the septic system to process efficiently.
5. Stringy Vegetables: Items like asparagus, string beans, and okra can wrap around the impeller and clog your system.
6. Non-Food Items: This is a no-brainer, but it bears repeating. Never put non-food items down your garbage disposal, including:
- Plastic: This is a serious environmental hazard and will never break down.
- Rubber: Similar to plastic, rubber will not decompose.
- Metal: This can damage the disposal blades and your pipes.
- Paper products: Paper towels, napkins, and cardboard should be thrown in the trash.
- Chemicals: Cleaning chemicals, paints, and solvents should never go down any drain.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I put coffee grounds down the garbage disposal? Small amounts of coffee grounds are usually okay, but large quantities can contribute to sludge buildup in your septic tank. It's best to compost them or throw them in the trash.
2. What about potato peels? Potato peels can be difficult to break down. While small amounts might be okay, it's safer to avoid them altogether.
3. Can I put leftover grease down the drain? Absolutely not! This is one of the worst things you can put down a drain leading to a septic tank. Always dispose of grease in a separate container.
4. How can I avoid clogging my pipes? Always run cold water for at least 30 seconds before and after using your garbage disposal. This helps wash away waste particles. Regularly clean your disposal and consider using a drain cleaner (according to the manufacturer's instructions) periodically to prevent buildup.
5. What happens if I put the wrong things down the disposal? You could experience slow drains, sewage backups, and ultimately, expensive septic system repairs or replacement. Early signs of problems include foul odors, gurgling sounds from drains, or persistently slow draining sinks and toilets.
Conclusion:
Protecting your septic system requires mindful disposal practices. By avoiding the items listed above, you can significantly extend the life of your septic system and avoid costly repairs. Remember, prevention is always cheaper and more convenient than a costly repair.
