Essential Dos and Don’ts for Worm Farm Septic System Maintenance
What Is a Worm Farm Septic System?
A worm farm septic system is an eco-friendly waste management solution that uses worms to break down organic waste, reducing the environmental impact of conventional systems. These systems are designed to process household waste while producing nutrient-rich compost for gardens. Proper maintenance is essential to keep the system functioning efficiently.
Dos for Maintaining Your Worm Farm Septic System
Add the Right Organic Waste
- Citrus fruits
- Dairy products
- Dead flowers
- Soft weeds (shake off excess dirt to prevent clogging)
- Kitchen food waste (vegetable peels, fruit scraps)
- Meat (excluding bones)
Adding these items ensures that worms stay healthy and active while preventing system blockages.
Maintain Proper Loading Levels
Ensure waste does not exceed the inlet pipe’s height. This allows black and grey water from your household to penetrate the system efficiently.
Don’ts for Worm Farm Septic System Maintenance
Avoid These Items
- Non-organic materials: Aluminum foil, plastic, glass, and metal items.
- Biodegradable misfits: Cat litter, biodegradable plastic bags, or wraps (these require sunlight to degrade, which your system lacks)
- Excessive garden waste: Woody garden waste, sticks, and lawn clippings can form dense mats and block the system.
- Chemicals and toxic materials: Motor oil, paint, and non-organic chemicals are harmful to worms and the system.
Don’t Use Inappropriate Products
Avoid toilet papers made with cotton or bamboo fibers and so-called “flushable” wet wipes. These products do not break down easily and can block the filter.
FAQs About Worm Farm Septic Systems
Can I add bones to my worm farm septic system?
No, bones do not break down quickly and may clog the system.
Why can’t I add lawn clippings?
Lawn clippings can form dense mats, which block water flow and disrupt the system’s efficiency.
Are biodegradable plastics safe to use?
No, many biodegradable plastics require sunlight to decompose and are unsuitable for worm farm septic systems.
How do I know if I’m overloading the system?
Ensure the waste level stays below the inlet pipe to allow proper water penetration and filtration.
Need help maintaining your worm farm septic system?
Contact our team of experts for tailored advice and support. Call the National Head Office at 03 5979 1887 today!
Or you can download this document to find out what is and isn’t a suitable item to dispose of into your Worm Farm Waste System.