What is the impact of using a garbage disposal on sewage disposal systems?

Using a garbage disposal in a household can significantly impact sewage disposal systems by increasing suspended solids and organic matter in the wastewater. When food waste is processed through a garbage disposal, it is pulverized into small particles, which can then enter the sewage system. This increase in small particles contributes to the overall solid content of the sewage, resulting in higher levels of suspended solids.

Moreover, the additional organic matter introduced into the system can lead to challenges for treatment facilities. Many systems, especially older ones or those not designed to handle the volume of organic waste generated by garbage disposals, may struggle with the increased load. This can lead to clogs, reduced efficiency of treatment processes, and potentially more frequent maintenance requirements for sewage systems. Consequently, the use of garbage disposals is generally discouraged in areas with specific sewage systems that are not equipped to handle the additional organic load.