Science of Septic and Soap: Life lessons in septic systems, Part 4

As we prepared to move in, I read the well/septic packet thoroughly and repeatedly, considering my options for dishwashing, laundry, shampoo, hand soap, and all kinds of cleaning.

Some odd and useful science I learned on the way: 

Septic systems are alive with bacteria which digest the solids and liquids in the tank.  When these substances break apart correctly, they decompose into water, carbon dioxide, and other harmless things which exit the system.  The water filters down through the ground, returning to the water table and refilling one's well.

If the solids and liquids don't decompose safely, they form toxins, killing off the good guy bacteria, potentially killing the system.  A septic system which is not biodegrading to water and air will require more frequent and costly maintenance and might poison the people, animals, and the water table.  No pressure.

Keep the system healthy by using biodegradable cleaners and avoiding toxins and things which won't biodegrade.  It's a lot cheaper to prevent problems than fix them.

Some thing to avoid putting down :

• Anti-bacterial soap- kills the good guy bacteria
• Latex paint- not only does it not biodegrade, it will gum up the tank and clog the drainage holes where water comes out at the end of the system under the mound 
• Whey from cheesemaking-  whether from its' high oxygen demands and/or from its' competition with other bacteria, enough whey can kill a septic system.  Thanks to Wynn for pointing that one out to me.
• Anything I don't want to wind up in my land or in my water since everything says on my property.  Nothing goes Away.

This leads to some real challenges in terms of cleaning.  Our water is still hard, which makes cleaning tougher.

Why you ask?  Well soaps have a tougher time working in water with lots of minerals like ours.

Here's a cool video on how soap works.

And here's a written explanation.
How does soap work?

We've gotten our arms around a little science to understand better why our water is 'slipperier'  with minerals so soap is less effective and why we need to eliminate harsh chemicals to protect our septic system.  

Now what?

Creativity and elbow grease, my friends.  That's Septic Part 5.