How can homeowners reduce water usage to benefit septic systems?

Homeowners can significantly reduce water usage to benefit septic systems by installing low-flow fixtures and fixing leaks in plumbing. Low-flow fixtures, such as faucets, showerheads, and toilets, are designed to use less water while still maintaining adequate performance. By reducing the volume of water entering the septic system, these fixtures help prevent overload, which can lead to system failure or backups.

Additionally, fixing leaks in plumbing is crucial as even small leaks can contribute to unnecessary water addition to the septic system. Over time, this added water can exceed the septic tank's capacity, leading to potential issues such as incomplete waste breakdown, contamination of the surrounding environment, or the need for more frequent pumping. Therefore, adopting measures that decrease overall water consumption directly supports the health and longevity of septic systems.