WW... Septic systems and low water flow can be an issue, but mostly in the house's pipes. Most systems are designed for a 4-5 gal flow of water from a toilet, that's supposed to "float/slide" everything down along a pipe with at least a 1/2" drop slope in 10 feet. With the availability of low flow toilets, that amount of water might be 1-2 gallons trying to do the same thing. My brother has talked about the issue in southern Colo... folks having problems with things getting plugged up because of the lack of enough water flowing in the system. I'd think, if "things" have made it thru the home's pipes to an already working septic tank tho, low flows wouldn't be any problem. Still gotta pump the tank every 3-5 years. But, no doubt tho... water is a septic system's friend. It makes the entire system work as designed.
That's a good article Terry. One section kind of seems to be the opposite of what my brother has seen in Colo where there are water shortage issues. But, too much water blowing thru a system obviously wouldn't be good either... here's the section it talks about it... Control water use Repair all leaky faucets, fixtures, and appliances immediately. Install low water use fixtures and appliances (especially toilets and shower heads). Do not empty roof drains and sump pump water into the septic system. Wash only full loads of clothing and dishes. Reduce length of showers and number of toilet flushings. Reroute water softener discharge water out of the septic system. Spread water use, such as laundry, evenly throughout the day and week.
This part seems to be an alien thought process to certain people in this household...past and present. Daughter has 4 kids, and wanted all to take a shower/bath every day, plus do at least a couple loads of laundry every day, not to mention all the flushes.
He was talking about folks he knew who'd had issues with using very little water... kinda turning their inside pipes into a dry stream bed... and having problems with the systems getting plugged because of it. He uses enough water... has no problems, but also doesn't waste any water either.
Is pumping the tank this spring/summer, part of your thinking on figuring out a longer term plan, or? Did the tank have the big input (extra family) during the 2 years? Sorry, if you've already mentioned this and I missed it.
Thanks, totally applies to my particular situation, we use less water than anyone I know already, think I will just keep things the same. I was just thinking the sinks/showers could help water a lawn LOL.
Been at the chit plant forever and the only really good advice I got is keep your 'mouth shut' when working with it!!! Its got a funky taste! I'd stay away from this as its not as great as they say. '''Install low water use fixtures and appliances (especially toilets and shower heads)''' Someone that lives out in the boonies who has a low flow toilet might be able to agree to this stinny?
The extra use was a few years ago. They were here at least a couple times for extended stays while out of work. Once the ground thaws, I'll be digging to find the other end of the tanks to see if there might be another inspection lid. If there is, I'll take a peek to see what's going on, but will probably have it pumped before I pull the lid. There is no T on the inlet, and I'm wondering if the outlet is the same. My wife really wants to have the lines roto-rooted, but I'm not convinced it'll help much or even be possible. Best scenario.....there's a partial clog in the outlet.
Yup... have had more than a few plumbers talk about this over the years. Now... about that funky taste thing... you must wash that down with a favorite ice cold beer?
Went for a nice swim in the main grit tank years ago and will never live that mess down. Didn't mean to though! Mrs loon reminds me of it once and awhile.
Awwwww man Terry... just.......................... awwww man... that... had... to... ........awwww man ... ...
