There are a range of everyday substances used in bathrooms and laundries that can be problematic and cause grey water septic tank problems if their use is not monitored carefully.
Some general examples of substances that can cause grey water septic tank problems include:
In the bathroom
Automatic toilet bowl cleaners – some automatic toilet bowl cleaners release high levels of chlorine into your septic system with every flush. As very high chlorine levels can have a harmful effect on the biology of your septic system, we recommend against use automatic toilet bowl cleaners.
Bath and body oils – occasionally using small amounts of bath and body oils won't typically cause grey water septic tank problems. However large amounts of these can pass rapidly through your septic tank, clogging pumps, drainfield lines and your drainfield. The likelihood of this increases when oils are mixed with effluent by emulsifying agents such as phosphates or strong detergents.
In the laundry
Powdered laundry detergents – Many powdered laundry detergents include non-biodegradable plastic fillers. These can collect in your septic tank and drainfield and clog drain lines. Some powered laundry detergents also contain phosphates, which can also cause grey water septic tank problems.
Instead, use powdered or liquid detergents that are free from phosphates, chlorine, and fillers, which less likely to cause grey water septic tank problems.
Laundry lint – Laundry lint can be prone to building up inside your septic tank. It can increase the cost of maintaining your septic system. If you have a septic system without an outlet filter, or if you don't clean your filter regularly, lint can get through to your drainfield. This will clog drain line holes and reduce the life of your drainfield.
To reduce the likelihood of grey water septic tank problems, installing a lint filter on the discharge line of your washing machine is a great idea.