Common Problems; High Flows; Garbage Disposals And High Strength Waste - Mason County Public Health Septic System User Manual

Common Problems

High Flows

Your system is only designed to handle a limited amount of sewage per day. For
residences, the design flow should be 120 gallons per day per bedroom in the
home, or 60 gallons per person per day. This design flow is a maximum. Average
daily flows should be 60-70% of the design flow. Operating at maximum design
flow on a daily basis is like driving your car with the engine revved up to the
redline at all times. It isn't recommended unless you want to
blow your engine.
Excessive water coming from the house can
cause some serious negative effects on your
system. Remember – your system was designed
to handle a limited amount of water per day.
High flow can cause solids to be washed from
your tanks into your drainfield, plugging it up
and causing it to surface. Also, just the sheer
volume of water going to the drainfield may be
more than the soil can absorb, causing sewage
breakout on the ground, not to mention unpleasant
smells and costly repairs.
Always try to limit your water use. Don't do seven loads of laundry on one day –
instead, do one load a day for seven days if possible. If you are planning a large
gathering, reunion, etc. rent 'port-a-potties' for the event. This will prevent your
system from being overloaded. Install low flow fixtures and appliances if possible
and fix leaking toilets and faucets. Remember, it's easier than fixing your septic
system.

Garbage Disposals and High Strength Waste

A Garbage Disposal (usually under the kitchen sink) is a standard appliance in
many homes. However, using a garbage disposal can be very unhealthy for your
septic system (and your bank account). Garbage Disposals have been shown to
increase solids levels in the septic system up to 33% faster, which means you'll
be pumping your tank more frequently. Disposals can also greatly increase the
waste strength, making more work for your system. Excess solids and high waste
strength will mean higher maintenance costs and could lead to premature failure
of the system – both of which will put the squeeze on your pocketbook. Limit your
grinder use (if you have one), or consider eliminating it entirely. Compost food
wastes or put them in the trash.
Other practices can also increase waste strength. Any and all products making
their way down the drain are things your system has to attempt to clean and
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