what is a septic safe garbage disposal

Simply installing a septic-system-safe garbage disposal in your house can help you sort through, and get rid of, most of your decomposable kitchen waste. These specially designed disposal units are made to work efficiently with your septic tank system, so ground kitchen waste can automatically be disposed of.

Full Answer

Can you have a garbage disposal with a septic?

You can have a garbage disposal with a septic tank if you are careful and intentional about what you put down the disposal. Best practices for maintaining your garbage disposal include running cold water, grinding hard materials, using the disposal on a regular basis, and cleaning the disposal with dish soap after each use.

What not to put in a garbage disposal with a septic tank?

Foods You Shouldn't Put Down the Garbage Disposal

1. Bones. All food bones, including chicken, pork and beef, are bad for a septic tank. ...
2. Fruit Pits. Have you ever tried to cut through an avocado seed or peach pit? ...
3. Pasta, Rice and Beans. Never put these or any other starchy foods down your garbage disposal. ...
4. Coffee Grounds. ...
5. Grease. ...
6. Fibrous Vegetables. ...
7. Eggshells. ...

How can a garbage disposal harm your septic tank?

• Use the appliance sparingly
• Do not dispose of leftovers that could easily be placed in the trash
• Do not place egg shells, vegetable peelings or other inert materials in the disposal
• Never pour used oil or grease down the drain
• Consider starting a compost pile

Can I use a garbage disposal with a septic system?

The use of garbage disposal with a septic system is not advised in many situations because it puts too much of a strain on the septic system, and trying to adapt the machine’s usage not to put much of a strain would be too much work. Despite this, some garbage disposals are still designed to be quite helpful without possessing this disadvantage.

Does the kitchen sink drain into the septic tank?

All drains in the home converge to a single pipe that leads to the septic tank buried outside. When the waste water from your toilet, shower, sinks and washing machine leave your house, it's combined. When it hits the septic tank, however, it begins to separate.

What should you not drain in a septic tank?

Do not put cigarette butts, paper towels, sanitary tampons, condoms, disposable diapers, anything plastic or similar non-biodegradables into a septic tank system. Avoid washing food scraps, coffee grinds, and other food items down the drain.

Is it okay to use a garbage disposal with a septic tank?

But is it wise to install a garbage disposal if you own a home with a septic system? From our perspective, the simple answer is no. We recommend that you avoid using a garbage disposal with a septic system for three reasons: It reduces the effectiveness of your septic system.

Can I have a dishwasher with a septic system?

Like the washing machine, newer dishwashers run more efficiently and use a lot less water, a good thing for the septic tank system. That being said, the detergent used in the dishwasher is often the cause of problems in the septic tank. That diluted detergent can be a threat to the bacteria in the septic tank.

How many loads of laundry a day are safe to do with a septic tank?

Spread Out Laundry Loads These use less water which puts less stress on your septic system. Regardless of the type of appliance you have, you should still spread out your loads. Instead of doing several loads in one day, consider doing 1 load per day or space out 2 loads if you must do more in a single day.

Are Tide Pods OK for septic systems?

Are detergent pods bad for septic systems? As long as the ingredients are fully biodegradable, detergent pods may be used safely without harming septic systems.

What can I use if I don't have a garbage disposal?

5 Tips for Living Without a Garbage DisposalBuy a strainer. The first thing I buy for a rental kitchen without a garbage disposal is a stainless steel mesh sink strainer. ... Keep it clean. ... Use your toilet. ... Compost if you can. ... Look on the bright side.

What type of dishwasher detergent is best for septic tanks?

Best List of Septic Safe Dishwasher DetergentsBetter Life Natural Dishwasher Gel. ... Lemi Shine Natural Dishwasher Pods. ... Seventh Generation Fragrance-Free Dishwasher Detergent. ... Puracy Platinum Dishwasher Detergent Pods. ... Sun & Earth Concentrated Liquid Dish Soap. ... Method Dishwasher Soap. ... ECOS Earth Friendly Wave Dishwasher Gel.More items...•

What toilet paper is septic safe?

One-ply and two-ply toilet paper are the most common picks for septic system use, and both are suitable. One-ply tends to be less strong, but it is safer for septic tanks since it's thinner and dissolves the fastest. Two-ply papers tend to be stronger, more comfortable to use, and can still be septic-safe.

Can you use Cascade pods with septic system?

Simply pop in an ActionPac and reveal a Platinum sparkle. Save up to 15 gallons of water per dishwasher load when you skip the pre-wash and run your dishwasher with Cascade Platinum. PHOSPHATE FREE. Safe for septic tanks.

Does washing machine water have to go into septic tank?

Fortunately, most modern septic systems are entirely capable of handling wastewater from your washing machine, but irresponsible use can still cause serious problems in septic tanks and lines. Erring on the side of caution will help to prevent washing machines from causing serious damage to your septic system.

Is Morning Fresh dishwashing liquid safe for septic tanks?

The Morning Fresh product range includes both dishwashing and dishwasher detergents. For the eco-friendly of us, all Morning Fresh dishwashing detergents use recyclable bottles and surfactants that are biodegradable. All products are greywater and septic tank safe.

What causes sludge build-up typically in septic tanks?

Sludge is built up organic matter, and so even if your garbage disposal thoroughly pulverizes food waste and makes it easy for septic bacteria to d...

How long does a typical garbage disposal last?

Most disposals will last about five years if they are not abused. However, some companies offer lifetime warranties on high-quality disposals; ther...

How do you clean a stinky garbage disposal?

Try running citrus peels and ice cubes through the disposal. If this natural scouring and freshening process does not clean the mechanism, then try...

How do you fix a leaking garbage disposal?

Usually, this means that it has been installed incorrectly, especially if you notice this soon after installation. So, first, look back at the inst...

What kind of wastes should I put in garbage disposals that are safe for septic tanks?

All disposals can handle the drippings and small unfinished pieces from meal plates. However, cooking grease should be avoided at all cost—try to p...

What can be put down a garbage disposal?

Food waste is the only material that should ever be put down a garbage disposal. Fats and grease are problematic, as well as non-food items that often inadvertently end up in a garbage disposal--small toys, nuts and bolts, or kitchen utensils.

Why do septic tanks need to be pumped?

As the layers of floating scum and sludge grow, the septic tank capacity decreases. Helpful bacteria will assist in decomposing some of the solid matter, but not all of it. This is why septic tanks must be pumped regularly. When you use a garbage disposal with a septic tank, the ground up food particles contribute to the layer ...

How often should I inspect a septic tank?

Natural bacteria can’t decompose the materials quickly enough, meaning your septic tank will need to be inspected more frequently and pumped as much as twice as often. Homeowners must also be extra vigilant about what types of materials they put in the garbage disposal.

Can you use a garbage disposal in a septic tank?

Regular use of a garbage disposal can drastically increase the amount of waste you are pumping into the septic tank.

Is it safe to install a garbage disposal?

If so, you’ve probably been curious whether it’s safe to install a garbage disposal. The simple answer is yes, but there are many precautions and preventative measures that a homeowner must take to ensure that the disposal does not disrupt proper septic functioning. Many of these steps prove to be too much hassle for the average homeowner.

Can you use enzymes in a septic system?

Today, many manufacturers offer garbage disposal systems designed for use with septic systems. They often include solutions of enzymes or other chemicals to assist in the breakdown of compounds in the septic tank. There is no proof that these additives are useful, and in fact, they can be harmful to the delicate bacteria ecosystem in your septic ...

First School of Thought

While discussing garbage disposal use under this school of thought as well as the other, none of the positions or points stated will be ours.

Second School Of Thought

This school of thought has a much different perspective on garbage disposal use in septic systems.

What is septic friendly garbage disposal?

The key trait of septic-friendly garbage disposals is that it can grind food wastes thoroughly. Depending on your needs, this might mean tough vegetable fibers, eggshells, seeds, meat, and even small bones or fruit pits.

What is a septic tank?

A septic tank builds up a sludge layer of organic matter that bacteria breakdown over time. Small pieces of waste are more accessible for the bacteria to manage. A disposal (or disposer) system that is septic-friendly will need to have a motor that produces a high RPM (rotations per minute).

Why do we need a garbage disposal under the sink?

For most Americans, having a garbage disposal under the sink is a godsend, as it allows us to throw away leftovers with impunity, rather than worrying about clogging the drain by accident because we didn’t scrape our plates well enough. Although it seems like a luxury in other parts of the world, the fact is that disposals are extremely commonplace ...

How much horsepower do you need for a septic tank?

For septic systems, I recommend at least half a horsepower or 2600 rpm.

Do garbage disposals clog septic systems?

The best garbage disposals for septic systems ground materials thoroughly, so that they do not clog the piping in any way and so that they do not overwhelm the septic system’s normal breakdown bacteria. A septic tank builds up a sludge layer of organic matter that bacteria breakdown over time.

Do bigger families create more waste?

Generally, bigger families will create more waste for the garbage disposal and septic tank; however, the more important factor is really how much food preparation and/or food consumption happens in your home.

Does garbage disposal make a septic tank noisy?

While noise level has nothing to do with the garbage disposal septic tank relationship, many users value quietness. Loud disposals can scare pets and children, disrupt conversation, and generally make clean-up unpleasant.

What are the layers of septic tank waste?

As the waste water enters your septic tank, it passes into the first section where it separates into 3 layers: Scum (grease and oil) makes up the top layer; Liquid, in the middle; and the Sludge (solids) fall to the bottom.

What is the food waste ground in a garbage disposal?

The food waste ground in your garbage disposal is chopped into tiny pieces and washed down the drain into your septic tank. The food particles settle in the sludge layer, and compared to other solids such as toilet paper, they take more time to breakdown.

Can a garbage disposal overfill a septic tank?

Since a garbage disposal grinds food scraps into small bits, not a smooth liquid, it makes it extremely easy to overfill the sludge layer in your septic tank. By paying attention to what you're putting down your disposal, you can protect your septic system from needing a pump sooner than you'd like.

Can sludge be decomposed in a garbage disposal?

However, depending on how frequently you use your garbage disposal, the natural microbes may not be able to decompose the sludge layer fast enough. When this happens, the sludge will overtake the tank and you'll need to have someone out to pump it from the septic system.

Does the InsinkErator Evolution Septic Assist add biocharge fluid?

All garbage disposals chop food into small pieces, but garbage disposals such as the InSinkErator Evolution Septic Assist will actually add a shot of Bio-Charge Fluid into the grind chamber.

Can you use a garbage disposal with a septic tank?

If your home uses a septic system you likely either don't have a garbage disposal, or you're wondering if you can have a garbage disposal with a septic tank. Although, many homeowners choose to play it safe and not install one, the fact of the matter is, you actually can use a garbage disposal with a septic tank.

Can you grind food in a septic tank?

Don't Grind These Foods in Your Garbage Disposal With a Septic Tank. Some foods such as coffee grounds, rice, pasta, and grease/oil should never be put down your garbage disposal, but there are a few others that you should avoid: Egg Shells. Potato Peels. Grapes. Oatmeal.

What is septic assist?

Septic Assist is a garbage disposal by InSinkErator specially made to be used with septic tanks. It has a bottle of liquid enzyme additives that boost the performance of aerobic bacteria in septic tanks. When the disposal is used, it injects a small quantity of liquid into the drains, eventually reaching the septic tanks.

Can garbage disposals overload septic systems?

If you are still worried that a garbage disposal will overload your septic system, there are some other ways to overcome this. Using septic tank additives is a great way to increase the number of bacteria that break down food wastes and reduce the septic system load.

Is Waste King a good garbage disposal?

Waste King L-3200 is a good alternative to the expensive Septic Assist model. It comes with a 3/4 HP rating and can grind all disposal-friendly food wastes as well as chicken bones and fruit pits. It diesn’t come with any of the bells and whistles of the Septic Assist disposal but if you are looking for a garbage disposal to get the job done, L-3200 is an ideal choice.

What to avoid when putting vegetables down a garbage disposal?

Plumbers and septic companies agree on avoiding these items: 1. Fibrous and Stringy Foods. Avoid putting vegetables like celery, asparagus, or corn husks down the garbage disposal because those particular items can easily wrap around the blades and possibly break the disposal. 2.

Why is my septic tank not working in Florida?

One of the reasons some Florida homeowners experience trouble with their septic tank is because they treat the garbage disposal like a trash cash. When they stuff vegetables, leftovers, macaroni, rice, grease, and anything that can fit down the drain, it all eventually finds its way to the septic system. Many things being placed into ...

What to do if a cherry gets in a garbage disposal?

Keep bones. fruit pits or large seeds out of the garbage disposal because they can hurt the unit. If a cherry, peach, or avocado pits accidentally gets into the garbage disposal, disconnect the power to the device and get it out before running or you will damage the blades instantly . 3.

Is it safe to use a septic tank disposal every day?

The best advice if you have a septic tank system is try to imagine the disposal is not there in the first place. By using that disposal each day, you run the risk of having an adverse effect on the septic system, resulting in more pump outs and potential repairs. Pretending the disposal is not there will benefit the septic system in the long run.

Can you add additives to a septic tank?

Additives aren ’t recommended for any septic system, they are simply adding something most professional septic repair companies in the industry will tell you does not help the septic tank. It is safer to use the garbage disposal minimally, putting most of the trash, grease, and food waste into the trash can.

Can you put food in a garbage disposal?

If the item that’s going into the garbage disposal is not food related, it’s best to put it in the trash can where it belongs. Similar to the “ Do Not Flush Rules ,” these include cigarette butts, rubber bands, bread ties, pull tabs, sponges, wipes, and any other non-organic items. These things are not capable of breaking down, so they will either get stuck in the lines, dull the blades of the disposal, or stay trapped inside the septic tank.

Can too much organic matter in a septic tank overload the bacteria?

Too much organic matter in that septic tank can overload the bacteria , not to mention the additives going down the drain with the food so the system runs efficiently.

What is a garbage disposal?

A Garbage disposal unit is a useful addition to your kitchen. It is designed to incinerate food waste, so it seamlessly passes through the sink drain. They typically shred to under 2mm so that every fragment can pass through plumbing without damaging the drainage system.

How long do septic tanks last?

Septic tanks are build from safe and durable materials like concrete. They can last between 26 to 31 years with proper maintenance and offer an accessible substitute to the standard sewer system. However, they require pumping after every few years.

How does a septic tank work?

A septic tank separates solids and other floating matter from wastewater. The floating particles reach the top whereas, solids sink deep. As the floating sludge and scum increases, the septic system's capacity decreases. Meanwhile, the bacteria will help decompose parts of the solids, however not all, which is why a septic tank needs ...

How much water does a septic tank hold?

Then it diverts the liquid waste into the drain field. It can easily contain a volume of 1000 gallons (3785 liters) of water. Septic tanks are build from safe and durable materials like ...

How many households in the US have a septic system?

And one of the most widely used techniques to do this besides the sewer system is the septic tank system! There are 27 million households in the US that operate on a septic tank; however, only a fraction of them use theirs with ...

What can rattle a septic tank?

Large or hard pieces of food scrap can rattle the disposal and may cause it to shake or come loose. Always ensure to dispose of biodegradable foods, plastic papers, ties, or wraps as they can cause irreparable damage to the disposal and the septic tank.

Can you use a garbage disposal with a septic tank?

You're here because you want to know the answer to the question: Can you install and use the garbage disposal with a septic tank? Well, the answer is a big YES! However, several precautionary measures need to be taken to ensure that the garbage disposal doesn't disrupt the septic tank's functionality.

What’s A Garbage Disposer?

• If you’re seeing this for the first time, the garbage disposal is simply a practical addition to most kitchens. These are grinders installed in sinks that help grind waste food in the presence of water to help flush it down the drain. Garbage disposal systems are easy to operate. You only need to turn on the water followed by the garbage disposer w...

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First School of Thought

Second School of Thought