Septic Systems and Garbage Disposals
Garbage disposals are helpful appliances in the kitchen, but they pose a major challenge for those who rely on septic systems for wastewater treatment. This begs the question: Can you use a garbage disposal with a septic tank? The answer is yes. If you use your garbage disposal responsibly, you won’t have any problems with your septic system.
Septic Blue of Charlotte is a premier septic company providing reliable and affordable septic services. We are committed to helping property owners who rely on septic systems maintain healthy and efficient systems. If you’re looking for professional septic technicians to help install, repair, or inspect your septic system, get in touch with Septic Blue of Charlotte. Below we provide you with tips for using a garbage disposal with a septic system.
Know What to Avoid
Your garbage disposal can be a lifesaver in the kitchen when it comes to food waste disposal, but that doesn’t make it a garbage can. There’s a wide range of food items that should never be put down a garbage disposal. These foods can damage the garbage disposal itself and harm your septic system over time.
The first type of food you should not put down your garbage disposal is fibrous foods, such as celery, corn husks, asparagus, and artichokes. They may seem harmless, but they are known to clog garbage disposals and cause damage over time. The fibrous material takes longer to decompose in a septic tank; hence, they’ll cause a buildup of sludge. Fibrous foods can reduce a septic tank’s effectiveness and increase the frequency of septic tank pumping. Instead of putting them down your garbage disposal, compost them or dispose of them in the trash.
Greasy foods do not belong in the garbage disposal as well. Everything from fatty meats to greasy dressings and oils can cause clogs in your drain lines and septic system. We understand that there’s a plumbing myth doing rounds that suggests that grinding greasy foods with plenty of hot water will help your disposal. This is a misconception. Greasy foods will solidify and stick to pipes, causing stubborn septic clogs.
