Household appliances are getting more efficient and can handle higher capacities than ever before. However, as homeowners add more of these high-powered machines, their septic systems can get overwhelmed and back up, leading to costly repairs. Here are some of the appliances you may not even realize are causing problems, and what you can do to prevent them.

Which Appliances Can Harm Your Septic System?

1. The Garbage Disposal

Garbage disposals are great for keeping organic material out of landfills, but putting the wrong items down the drain can lead to serious septic problems. The more solids that get through your disposal, the higher the risk of the food congealing and harming your septic tank. If possible, avoid putting solids, like vegetables or eggshells, down the disposal, as they can clog up your septic system. Never put grease down the disposal as it will harden and cause pipe issues as well. If you use your disposal frequently, you will need more frequent septic pumping services to avoid clogging. 

2. The Dishwasher 

To avoid overwhelming your septic system, run your dishwasher late at night when other appliances aren’t in use. However, the real danger of the dishwasher is the detergent you use. The wrong detergent can kill off the good bacteria in your septic tank, throwing off the chemical balance needed to maintain the longevity of your system. Look for environmentally friendly detergents that are labeled safe for septic systems. 

3. The Washing Machine

The washing machine is one of the most common contributors to septic tank failure. This is because of lint, that comes out in the wash and ends up accumulating in the tank. This happens the most when you do multiple loads in a short amount of time. Since it’s impossible to avoid lint altogether, try spreading out your washing over several days, rather than doing it all at once. This will help the system flush the lint before it collects and clogs your septic tank.

Dugger’s Septic Cleaning has been providing septic system services and maintenance to Corbin, KY, and the Tri-County area since 1962. This locally owned and operated company offers septic and holding tank cleaning, pumping, and grease trap cleaning, as well as other regularly scheduled maintenance services. For more information, call (606) 528-3893 or visit them online today.