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I have a septic system. My soil is largely clay. I would like to eliminate as much gray water from the septic tank as possible, because when the soil is saturated during rainy weather, the distribution from the septic laterals is sluggish in the best case scenario. How can I set up a system to collect, filter and reuse the water from the automatic clothes washer?
Missouri Laws Accompanied by
Department of Health and Senior Services Rules Governing On-Site Sewage Systems, PDF, currently do not address disposal of graywater, except that it must not be allowed to run off your property. Your county health department has the option of adopting stricter rules than those in the state manual, so it's a good idea to check with them for guidance.
Graywater Guidelines, PDF, an excellent 28-page reference for guidelines on implementing a graywater re-use system is available from the Water Conservation Alliance of Southern Arizona. Nearly all of the practices mentioned, including reusing the water from the automatic clothes washer, would be applicable to Missouri.
Cutting down on the amount of wastewater going to the septic system should also include the following water conservation measures.
Also, see Table 4 in EQ401, Septic Tank/Absorption Field Systems: A Homeowner's Guide to Installation and Maintenance for a pumping schedule on the septic tank, to help extend the life of the sewage disposal system.
Bob Schultheis
Natural Resource Engineering Specialist
I've heard there is a jar test to see if toilet paper is suitable for the septic system. How do I do it?
Put
two squares of toilet paper in a pint jar filled two-thirds full with water.
Shake vigorously and observe. The quicker the toilet paper falls apart, the better
it is for the septic system. The color of toilet paper is not a problem.
Bob Schultheis
Natural Resource Engineering Specialist
How often should I check or pump my septic tank?
Sludge
and scum levels should be checked annually. Depending on the tank's size and
number of people in the house, the tank usually needs pumping every 2 to 5 years.
Using water conservation measures in the home will help reduce the likelihood
of absorption field failure, especially during wet weather.
Bob Schultheis
Natural Resource Engineering Specialist
Should I flush yeast, enzymes or other additives down the toilet to make the septic tank work better?
No.
Some additives are damaging to the soil or to the groundwater beneath it. Others
are unlikely to pollute groundwater, but interfere with settling of the solids
in the septic tank. Additives that dissolve solids in the tank often just move
them to the absorption field and plug it, forcing expensive repairs. Instead,
MU Extension recommends pumping the tank on a regular basis.
Bob Schultheis
Natural Resource Engineering Specialist
How can I tell if I'm having problems with my septic tank system?
Sinks
will drain slowly, toilets won't flush right, sewage may surface in the yard,
drinking water from well will have bacterial contamination and you may have family
members getting sick.
Bob Schultheis
Natural Resource Engineering Specialist
More water questions and answers
Updated 8/15/08