What effect does a food-waste disposer have on a home's septic system?

A food-waste disposer, commonly referred to as a garbage disposal, generates additional organic waste that needs to be processed. When waste is put down the disposal, it is ground into smaller particles and sent to the septic system. This increases the overall volume of solid waste that the septic system must handle.

Septic systems are designed to process a specific amount of organic waste, primarily human waste and toilet paper. Introducing additional food waste can overwhelm the system, as the microorganisms that break down waste in the septic tank may not be able to keep up with the increased load. Consequently, this can lead to slower decomposition of solids, higher levels of solids in the tank, and ultimately, a greater likelihood of system failure. Regular pumping and maintenance might be required more frequently when a garbage disposal is in use, which adds to the expense and effort needed to keep the system functioning properly.

Understanding this impact is crucial for homeowners using a septic system, as it emphasizes the need for careful management of what goes into the system to maintain its health and longevity.