When you have a septic system, there are some steps you should take to make sure the system keeps working as it should. One area people get confused about is how a septic system handles wash (laundry) water.
There are a couple of problem areas that laundry creates:
Amount of water – A septic tank in good working order can handle the amount of water usually generated by typical household washings.The problem comes when a homeowner does LOTS of laundry on one day.This can overload the system with water. An overloaded system will not work efficiently.
Chemicals in the water – The chemicals used in the laundry can sometimes cause problems in a septic tank. Depending on the chemical in the detergent ( high phosphate detergent is more damaging than low phosphate) and if the detergent contains ‘surfactants’. These chemicals ( phosphates or nonylphenol ethoxylate ) can get damage your septic system and even get into your gropund water supply.
Amount of detergent used – Not following the directions and using too much detergent can damage your septic tank. If there is too much detergent in the water, some of it may not go into solution. This can actually clog your septic system.
If you have any concerns about your septic system, contact SES. We will be happy to help you out.