Which residential feature can increase the load on a septic system?

The presence of additional bathrooms in a residential setting can significantly increase the load on a septic system. This is because each bathroom typically includes fixtures such as sinks, toilets, showers, and bathtubs, all of which contribute to the overall wastewater generated by the household. When a home adds more bathrooms, the consumption of water rises, leading to a larger volume of wastewater entering the septic system.

An increase in wastewater can overwhelm the septic system, especially if it is not designed to handle the additional flow. This might lead to issues such as inefficiencies in treatment, reduced functionality, or even system failure if the capacity is exceeded. Therefore, understanding the impact of household features, such as multiple bathrooms, on septic systems is vital for proper maintenance and management of wastewater.

In contrast, features like garden irrigation or high-efficiency appliances generally contribute to a more controlled use of water, and low-water use fixtures can even help reduce the load on a septic system by minimizing the volume of wastewater produced. Thus, the correct answer highlights the importance of recognizing how increased water sources in a home can affect septic system operations.