The Impact of Bidets on Sewage Systems and Septic Tanks

The Impact of Bidets on Sewage Systems and Septic Tanks - What Australian Homeowners Need to Know

As more Australians install bidets in their homes, many homeowners, particularly those using septic systems, are asking an important question: Do bidets affect septic tanks or sewage systems?

The short answer is: no, bidets are generally safe for both mains-connected and septic system homes. In fact, in many cases, using a bidet can be better for your system than relying on toilet paper alone.

In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about bidet septic tank compatibility, water usage, and long-term impact on your home's wastewater system. Whether you're using a municipal sewer connection or an onsite septic tank, this article is designed to give you peace of mind before installation.

How Bidets Interact with Wastewater Systems

Bidets connect to your toilet’s water inlet and use a controlled spray to clean you after using the toilet. The water used is fresh, not recycled, and it enters the same wastewater system, either a sewer or septic system, as your regular toilet flush.

What matters is the amount of water added and the absence of solid waste. Unlike toilet paper, which adds physical material to your tank or system, bidets add only a small volume of clean water.

Key points:

• No solid waste introduced
  

• Low water volume per use (around 0.5 to 1 litre)
  

• Uses existing plumbing
  

• No changes to your toilet’s drainage system required
  

This makes bidets one of the safest bathroom upgrades for homes with septic tanks.

Bidets vs Toilet Paper - Septic System Impact

The average household uses an enormous amount of toilet paper. Over time, all that paper accumulates in your tank or travels through your sewage pipes, where it can contribute to clogs, backups, or slower breakdown rates.

Here’s how bidet toilet use compares:

By reducing or eliminating toilet paper use, bidets help improve the long-term performance and lifespan of septic tanks.

Are Bidets Safe for Septic Systems?

Yes. Bidets are completely safe for use with septic tanks. In fact, by reducing the buildup of paper waste, they can actually reduce the frequency of tank pumping and prevent blockages.

Benefits of using a bidet with a septic tank include:

• Less paper buildup in the tank
  

• Reduced chance of clogs or blocked drain fields
  

• Lower risk of overflow issues during high-use periods
  

• Better long-term system health
  

• Environmentally responsible waste management
  

These advantages apply to both electric and manual bidets. Whether you're using a seat, attachment, or full bidet toilet, the result is the same: less solid waste going into your system.

Does a Bidet Use Too Much Water?

This is another common concern for off-grid or water-conscious homeowners. The truth is that bidets use surprisingly little water per use, often less than one litre.

Compare this to the water required to manufacture and process toilet paper (which can exceed 20 litres per roll), and the net environmental and system impact is actually positive.

• Manual attachments use only cold water at mains pressure
  

• Electric models heat a small amount of water on demand
  

• No need for large volume flushes to remove paper
  

If you're concerned about water use, we also stock eco-friendly models that use low-flow valves and pressure regulators to reduce consumption even further.

Installation Tips for Septic Tank Users

If your home uses a septic system, here are a few helpful tips to ensure a smooth installation:

• Stick to water-only models (no added soaps or oils, which can affect bacterial balance)
  

• Avoid flushing wipes or using any solid toilet accessories alongside the bidet
  

• Confirm toilet compatibility before installing
  

• Use a licensed plumber if your toilet has non-standard access or unusual fittings
  

• Choose high-quality fittings included with our bidet seats to avoid leaks or pressure issues
  

We stock only Australian-compliant products designed to work with local systems.

Why Buy a Bidet from Bidets Online?

We help Australians upgrade their bathrooms safely and smartly, whether they’re on a septic system or a city sewer line. All of our products come with installation guides, local support, and expert advice tailored to Australian conditions.

Here’s why Bidets Online is the trusted choice for bidet installation in septic tank homes:

• Free shipping Australia-wide for orders over $200
  

• Same-day dispatch before 1 PM AEST
  

• 2-year warranty on all products
  

• Locally stocked parts and fittings for fast support
  

• Expert Australian customer service
  

• Sydney showroom where you can view and test before buying
  

You don’t need to guess what will work with your home. We’ll walk you through it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to use a bidet with a septic tank?

Yes. Bidets are safe and often beneficial for septic systems because they reduce solid waste from toilet paper.

Will a bidet flood or overwhelm my septic tank?

No. Bidets use very little water per use, much less than a bath, laundry cycle, or even a long flush.

Do electric bidets pose a risk to septic health?

No. Electric bidets use clean water only. They do not add chemicals or solids that could disrupt bacterial balance.

What about cleaning agents? Can I add those?

Avoid soaps or harsh chemicals in your bidet’s spray water. Plain water is safest for your septic tank.

How much water does a bidet use per wash?

Typically between 0.5 and 1 litre. Some high-end models allow you to customise the duration and pressure.

Should I still use a small amount of toilet paper?

That’s up to you. Most users use a small amount for drying or switch to a built-in dryer on electric models.

Will a bidet help reduce how often I need to pump the tank?

Potentially, yes, less paper buildup means your tank stays cleaner for longer.

Are there bidets specifically made for septic systems?

Not specifically, but all our models are compatible with both septic and mains systems.

Where can I get help choosing the right model for my home?

Call us or visit our Sydney showroom. Our team will recommend the best product for your system, toilet type, and household needs.