Laundry Habits and Septic Systems
Laundry habits can directly affect your septic system. There are many things to consider when buying a washing machine. W
ashers are high water usage appliances second to your toilet. Choosing a high efficiency washer can make a big difference in water usage and fuel bills. Both top-loading and front loading high efficiency washers use less water and cost less to operate, and reduce drying time by extracting more water during the spin cycle. This is good news for your septic system and energy bills. Front-loaders have usually received a better efficiency score since they generally use less water than top-loading washers but high efficiency top loaders score high also.
Lint from the washer into the septic system can also be a problem. Lint is non-biodegradable since it is made up of polyester and nylon which is synthetic. Over time this can clog up the soil treatment system(leach field) and reduce the life of the system costing the homeowner thousands of dollars. A laundry filter can be added to the washing machine discharge hose to which will remove most lint and some detergent scum from laundry wastewater. The laundry filter is a good investment toward the longevity of your septic system. Call All Clear for a price quote on laundry filter installation
Laundry detergents also can have an effect on your septic system. Powered detergents and liquid detergents contain basically the same ingredients. Liquid forms and pre-packaged packets have become popular recently. They all perform pretty much the same but packets do not allow you to use less for each load. Some detergents still contain phosphorous but it has been banned in most places. A high amount of suds is never a good idea for your septic system. Try using about half of the recommended amount and see if your clothes are clean. You can always add a little more to get the desired cleanliness.
Most commercial brands of laundry soap leave a chemical residue on your clothes. Vegetable-based laundry soap is a better choice. Powders usually contain fewer chemicals than liquids. Try pure soap flakes instead of detergent — add 1/2 cup of borax or vinegar to the rinse cycle to remove soapy residue. Enzyme-based detergents can be irritating to the skin and are a cause of allergic reactions. You can also try being creative and making your own detergent. There are many recipes online.
Septic Preservation Services can help with any questions you may have on this issue including lint filters. Call them at 877-378-4279 or visit www.septicpreservation.com
Septic Preservation Services is consistently referred by realtors in Attleboro, Norton, Plainville, North Attleboro, Mansfield, Foxboro, Wrentham, Franklin and surrounding towns as a premier provider of Title 5 Septic Inspections to home buyers and sellers. If you require a Title 5 Septic Inspection or would like more information please call our office at 877-378-4279 or visit 
