Septic systems are a common way to manage household wastewater in areas that do not have access to municipal sewer systems. These systems use a combination of natural processes and technology to treat and dispose of wastewater.
While washing clothes may seem like a routine task, it can have significant effects on the health of our septic systems. It is important to consider the impact that our laundry habits have on our septic systems and we’ve provided you with some tips and tricks below to aid in the health of your septic system.
How To Keep Your Septic System Running Smoothly When Doing Laundry
Use Biodegradable Detergents
One of the main concerns with laundry and septic systems is the use of detergents that are not biodegradable. Many laundry detergents contain ingredients such as phosphates and surfactants that do not break down easily in septic systems, which can lead to your tank becoming clogged.
Reduce The Amount of Water You Are Using
High volumes of water can overload the septic system, leading to overflows and failure. Try to limit the amount of laundry you wash and try doing only one load of laundry each day. Your septic tank is limited as to how much water it can hold and can overflow with excessive loads of laundry especially considering you and your family still have to use the bathroom, take a bath/shower, and use the sink.
Clean The Mud, Dirt, & Debris Off Of Your Clothing Before Washing
Did you know that the mud, dirt, and debris that are found on your clothes may have a negative impact on your septic system? Putting heavily soiled items directly into your washing machine, without brushing them off first, can result in your septic tank becoming clogged. When your septic tank becomes clogged, the drainfield isn’t able to absorb the drained water properly. Remember, the better absorption the drainfield has, the better your system functions.
Measure The Amount of Detergent You Are Using
It’s important to measure the amount of laundry detergent that you are using with each load. Some detergents and bleach contain chemicals that can harm the beneficial bacteria that help to break down the solid waste in the septic tank, leading to a decrease in system efficiency. Be sure to look for a detergent that is biodegradable to ensure it can break down once it drains out of the washer.
Avoid Using Fabric Softener
As we mentioned above, certain chemicals can harm the beneficial bacteria in your septic tank. Some fabric softeners also contain those chemicals but they also can leave behind a residue that can clog the tank. Try using an alternative like adding a cup of white vinegar and baking soda to your washing machine.
Keep Your Septic System Clean With Lion Home Service
Making small changes in how you do your laundry can go a long way in ensuring the health and longevity of your septic system. We are committed to helping you maintain your septic system and providing you with solutions for all of your plumbing needs. Call our experts today at (970) 829-8222 so we can help keep your septic system in good shape!
Lion Home Service has septic contractors in all the following locations:
- • Fort Collins septic contractors
- • Loveland septic contractors
- • Greeley septic contractors
- • Longmont septic contractors
- • Windsor septic contractors
- • Boulder septic contractors
- • Estes Park septic contractors
- • Bellvue septic contractors
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Not in Colorado but still looking for help with your septic system? Well, then check out our friends over at Genmor Plumbing, Inc. They have a team of Cupertino septic contractors just waiting to give you a helping hand!
