If you’ve recently moved into a home with a septic system, you may need to adjust your lifestyle to avoid disrupting the property’s wastewater disposal system. Before you run that first load of laundry, for example, you should review the ways in which a washing machine can affect septic maintenance. Use the following guide to learn more.

A Guide to Septic Maintenance

How Does Laundry Affect the Septic System?

Even the newest and most advanced septic systems have limitations when it comes to the amount of water they can filter at any given time. Because it takes time to separate solid waste and drain the remaining water, households that rely on septic systems need to be aware of their water usage. Otherwise, sewage backups or drain field flooding can occur. 

Detergents can also pose a problem. Powders tend to contain additives like clay, which can cause clogs over time. Detergents that contain bleach can also be problematic. Septic tanks need a healthy dose of bacteria to break down waste in a timely manner, and bleach can disrupt the supply of beneficial organisms.

Pet hair, lint, and other debris can also pose a threat. When left to accumulate in a lint trap, these particles can make their way into the piping, causing blockages.

How Can You Avoid These Issues?

Since washing machines use a considerable amount of water during each cycle, avoid running several loads back to back. Try not to run the washing machine at the same time as the dishwasher or when you’re taking a shower. Too much water usage at once can cause the tank to reach capacity and overflow when trying to process the wastewater.

Consider the condition of your drain field before washing several loads of laundry in a day. If it has rained recently, for example, the drain field may already be waterlogged. Septic maintenance contractors urge homeowners to try and save their laundry chores for dryer days.

For optimal protection, invest in a high-efficiency washing machine. These models use less water per load, mitigating septic issues. Make sure to use a bleach-free liquid detergent that’s advertised as “septic safe” and clean out the lint traps after each cycle.

If your septic system is due for pumping, cleaning, or repairs, turn to Sloan’s Septic Tank Service in Oakley, MI. This family-owned and -operated business has been serving residential and commercial clients throughout the area for more than 80 years. Their highly trained technicians are available 24/7, and they promise to get the job done right the first time. To request a quote for septic maintenance, reach out on their website or call (989) 845-6280.