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Yes, shower water goes into the septic tank. Shower water is a type of greywater, and in fact, all water used in a home with a septic system—including water from sinks, toilets, the dishwasher, and the washing machine—drains into the tank. When shower water enters the tank, debris like soap and hair travels with it. The solid debris sinks to the bottom to become sludge, while soap residue joins the scum layer at the top. The remaining water is treated in the tank before moving to the drain field for further treatment and dispersal. It is important to avoid putting oil or harsh chemicals down any drain, as they can cause clogs or disrupt the beneficial bacteria required for proper wastewater management in the septic system.

Installing a plumbing system is a project best left to professional plumbers. Plumbing systems involve tons of moving parts—water supply lines, pipes, drain lines, sewer connections, and connections to appliances like water heaters, washing machines, and dishwashers. Improper installation of your plumbing system can leave your house vulnerable to potential damages that could result in flooding or damage to your home’s foundation. While you can DIY your way through common plumbing problems like fixing clogged drains or leaky faucets, it’s highly recommended that you contact a plumbing professional for most of your plumbing-related tasks, especially installing the system. 

While you may have some water, it's best to wait until after the repair is complete to use your home's pipes. For one thing, the water pressure will most likely be greatly reduced, leading to a less-than-intense shower. There's also the risk of contamination from dirt and bacteria that can enter the broken water main pipe. In many cases, a pro will turn off the flow of water from your water main to do the repairs, so showering won’t likely be an option.

You can try a few things to figure out where a water leak is coming from. Check all of your appliances and fixtures, make sure the water pressure is normal on your faucets, and look for signs of water damage. Some signs of a leaky pipe include water stains on ceilings and walls, paint or wallpaper that starts bubbling, a musty smell, or visible signs of mold.