How To Get Good Bacteria In Your Septic Tank?

Flush a packet of brewer’s dry yeast down one toilet on the bottom floor of your house once a month. The yeast will help add “good” bacteria to your septic tank and break down waste.

How do I increase bacteria in my septic tank?

Homemade Septic Tank Treatment The ingredients required for this natural solution are the following: Water, Sugar, Cornmeal, and Dry Yeast. To concoct this mixture, first start by boiling roughly a half gallon of water. Add in 2 cups of sugar. The sugar will act as the first food your bacteria will eat!

Should I add bacteria to my septic tank?

For new systems, many people believe you must add bacteria. While septic systems require bacteria to work, no special bacteria need to be added.

What is the best bacteria to put in septic tank?

Much like your stomach, septic tanks need good bacteria and enzymes to break down the solids that pass through it. These beneficial bacteria and enzymes can come from several sources, but our favorite is actually rotten tomatoes. These naturally occurring enzymes are proteins called Pectinase or Pectinolytic enzymes.

How do I keep my septic system healthy?

Do’s and Don’ts when maintaining your septic system

  1. Regularly inspect and maintain your septic system.
  2. Pump your septic tank as needed.
  3. Keep your septic tank lids closed and secured.
  4. Be water-wise.
  5. Direct water from land and roof drains away from the drainfield.
  6. Landscape with love.
  7. Keep septic tank lids easily accessible.

Can you put too much bacteria in a septic tank?

Too much of a good thing can cause problems. A septic system relies on the correct balance of bacteria to do its job. An overpopulation of bacteria can deplete the oxygen in the septic tank and turn the environment septic. A septic, septic system is one in which the ecosystem within the tank is out of balance.

What kills bacteria in septic tanks?

For example, while chlorine bleach is a useful disinfectant in the home, it kills beneficial septic tank bacteria. In addition to bleach, avoid constant use of antibacterial soap and harsh drain cleaners. Also, many toilet bowl cleaners have bleach or hydrochloric acid, which kills septic tank bacteria.

Do I need to add enzymes to my septic tank?

But septic tanks don’t really need help from extra additives. As long as you are only putting wastewater and toilet paper down the pipes, the tank can take care of its job on its own. Putting anything extra in can cause more harm than good and it’s best to stick to the tanks natural ecosystem when possible.

Does sour milk help septic tank?

The bacteria in the sour milk creates a symbiotic relationship with the yeast in the septic system. Therefore, yes the sour milk would be good for the septic system. These same yeasts and bacterias are the basis for sour dough starters, sauerkraut etc. Plus, it’s a SEPTIC system.

How do I clean my septic tank naturally?

You can mix about a 1/4 cup of baking soda with 1/2 cup of vinegar and 2 tablespoons lemon to make your own natural cleaning agent. The baking soda will fizz up to help get the dirt and grime in your tub and drains. It’s a great cleaner and your septic system will thank you!

How often should you add bacteria to a septic tank?

When solids enter the tank, they settle to the bottom and collect there. Over time, those solids will start to build up. This is why the tank needs pumping every three to five years — because the solids in the tank always rise to the top.

Should I add anything to my septic tank?

You don’t need to add more, feed them or support them at all. If you add more bacteria without more waste, the bacteria will only eat each other. The bacteria are anaerobic, so they don’t even need air. All your tank needs to stay in shape is regular inspection and pumping to remove the solid sludge layer.

Does putting yeast in septic tank help?

Yeast helps actively breaks down waste solids when added to your septic system. Flush ½ cup of dry baking yeast down the toilet, the first time. Add ¼ cup of instant yeast every 4 months, after the initial addition.

What are the signs that your septic tank is full?

Here are some of the most common warning signs that you have a full septic tank:

  • Your Drains Are Taking Forever.
  • Standing Water Over Your Septic Tank.
  • Bad Smells Coming From Your Yard.
  • You Hear Gurgling Water.
  • You Have A Sewage Backup.
  • How often should you empty your septic tank?

How often does a 1000 gallon septic tank need to be pumped?

For example, a 1,000 gallon septic tank, which is used by two people, should be pumped every 5.9 years. If there are eight people using a 1,000-gallon septic tank, it should be pumped every year.

How do you dissolve sludge in a septic tank?

How to Reduce Sludge in a Septic Tank Without Pumping

  1. Install an aeration system with diffused air in your septic tank.
  2. Break up any compacted sludge.
  3. Add a bio-activator or microbe blend.
  4. Maintain the aeration system.
  5. Add additional Microbes as required.

Septic Tank Bacteria: What You Need to Know

In the case of a new septic tank owner, or if you’re just not familiar with the way your septic tank operates, you may not be aware of the importance of bacteria and how it affects your septic tank’s operation. Bacteria contributes to the proper operation of your septic tank over time. Your septic tank would most certainly jam up very fast if there were no microorganisms present. By following proper septic tank management procedures, you may encourage the growth of beneficial bacteria. The way you utilize your septic tank, as well as the items you flush down your drains, can have an influence on how well it functions.

Why Is Septic Tank Bacteria Important?

Solid waste is continuously drained down the drain to the septic tank. Whenever solids are introduced into the tank, they sink to the bottom and accumulate there. Over time, such sediments will begin to accumulate in the sewer system. In order to prevent this, the tank must be pumped every three to five years since the solids in the tank always ascend to the top of the tank. If the solids reach the drainfield pipe, which is located towards the top of the septic tank, microscopic particles will be released into the drainage system.

Bacteria reduces the amount of bacteria that accumulates at the bottom of the tank.

Whenever the liquids in the tank reach the drainfield, they are securely discharged into the yard and do not become clogged.

What Can You Do to Promote Septic Tank Bacteria Growth?

Septic tanks inherently contain bacteria that will develop and multiply. By draining more solid waste down into the tank on a consistent basis, you encourage the growth of bacteria. However, there are several things you can do to your septic tank that will help to slow the spread of germs. All of the items meant to kill bacteria such as antibacterial soaps, bleach, antibiotics, and other products designed to kill bacteria have the potential to enter your tank and harm some of the beneficial bacteria in your tank.

It is possible that you may need to alter the way your family operates in order to prevent flushing these items down the toilet.

Before washing soiled garments, soak them in vinegar for a few minutes, and mix baking soda into your laundry detergent before putting it in the machine.

If you require a secure location to dispose of your medication, consult with your doctor to determine where you may properly dispose of your medication waste. It’s possible that your doctor is aware of medicine-recycling activities taking place in your neighborhood.

Do You Need to Put Bacteria In Your Septic Tank?

Some firms manufacture bacteria that may be added to your septic tank in order to support good functioning of the system. However, if you follow the instructions to the letter, microbial additives should not be required. Assuming you keep the amount of bacteria-killing agents and chemicals in your drains to a minimum, your tank should have enough bacteria to perform its functions. Whether or not you decide to employ septic tank bacteria, you should check with your local sanitation authorities to see if any chemicals or other materials are prohibited from being flushed down the toilet.

If you’re not sure which septic tank bacteria firms are the best, ask the specialist who pumps your septic tank for a suggestion.

Al’s Septic Tank Service is delighted to speak with you about septic tank bacteria and other septic tank-related issues.

To learn more, please contact us immediately.

How To Increase Bacteria In Septic Tank Naturally?

Septic tanks are used to treat waste from a single home, which is why they are more popular in rural locations. They are a critical component of a dependable plumbing system that eliminates wastewater from the home. Septic tanks require helpful microorganisms in order to function correctly and break down the waste they collect. Antibacterial compounds and other items that clog the sewage system, on the other hand, can cause this process to be disrupted. Knowing how to organically raise the amount of bacteria in a septic tank may be quite valuable in this situation.

Do I Need To Treat My Septic Tank?

Prior to demonstrating natural methods for increasing septic tank bacteria, let’s analyze if this treatment is really necessary in the first place. When the waste is exposed to anaerobic bacteria in the tank, it is broken down into three parts:

  • A layer of scum on the surface of the water that is formed of fats, oils, and greases The middle layer of effluent – which is mostly constituted of wastewater and occupies the majority of the tank
  • The bottom layer of sludge is made of heavier particles, and it is the layer that is most visible.

Is it harmful to have septic tanks because germs can be found in them? No, the bacteria in septic tanks are critical, as they are responsible for the breakdown of waste that occurs in the tank. To be clear, every time you flush solid waste down the toilet, you are promoting the growth of helpful bacteria in the tank. However, a variety of factors can interfere with the operation of these microorganisms. That’s precisely when you’ll find yourself with a full tank of gas. Fortunately, there are usually obvious symptoms that your septic tank is overflowing.

  • Back-up in the sewer
  • A lush, green grass as a result of a full tank–a pleasant side effect of having a full tank
  • The presence of foul smells surrounding your septic tank may signal that it is overflowing or that there is a leak. Sluggish drains in your home– water draining slowly in locations such as a toilet, a bath tub, or a sink
  • Standing water — collecting water in your yard is a sure sign that your septic tank is overflowing (unless it has just rained)

In order to avoid a dangerous situation like this from occurring again, it is critical to treat the tank on a regular basis. A common rule of thumb is that a septic system should be flushed every 2-5 years. Consequently, the answer to the question is yes, you do need to get your septic tank treated. In other words, you should treat your septic tank on a regular basis rather than only when a major problem emerges.

How To Increase Bacteria In Septic Tank Naturally In 2 Steps

You now understand that the myth of an aseptic tank that never has to be emptied is just not true.

Continue reading if you merely want to retain the good bacteria in your septic tank or if you currently have a significant septic tank problem. There are two measures that you may do to enhance the amount of bacteria in your septic tank:

  • Treatment of septic tank bacteria
  • Awareness of what should be avoided

The greatest solution to the question of How To Increase Bacteria In Septic Tank Naturally is to use products that include natural bacteria. This is, without a doubt, the greatest septic tank treatment since it does not harm the pipes while simultaneously solving the problem. You should treat your septic tank on a regular basis with some basic DIY materials, or you may use store-bought goods if you want. This ongoing maintenance will ensure that you never have to deal with a clogged tank situation again.

  • Using rotting tomatoes as a DIY project is something you may do on a sporadic basis.
  • Every three months or so, simply smash the rotten tomatoes and flush them down the toilet to eliminate them.
  • The usage of baking soda is not only useful for cleaning around the house, but it may also be quite beneficial for your septic tank.
  • Baking soda has the effect of bringing the pH levels in a septic system back to a neutral level.
  • Use of a septic tank cleaning powder is the next option that you may consider.
  • These items have been designed expressly for the purpose of cleaning out a septic tank.
  • Ridex septic additive and yeast are two of the most commonly used items for this purpose, according to the manufacturer.
  • Solids, trash, and oils are all broken down by this process.
  • Additional measures to improve the bacteria in your septic tank are available to you.
  • Almost majority of them consider appropriate garbage disposal as part of their responsibilities.
  • Diapers, feminine hygiene products, wet wipes, condoms, cat litter, cigarette buds, and hair are just a few of the items available.

.as well as many others. Everything other than toilet paper and human waste should be avoided being flushed, according to the usual guideline. To put it another way, avoid flushing anything down the toilet that won’t simply dissolve in water. Specific antibacterial cleaning chemicals have been shown to significantly reduce the quantity of bacteria in septic tanks. What you can do is use more natural cleaning items, such as baking soda and vinegar, to clean your home. A number of drugs, such as antibiotics, are also known to be effective at killing bacteria in septic tanks.

This is especially true when drugs and other chemicals are disposed of in the sewage system for an extended period of time. Never discard unneeded prescription down the toilet, and limit the use of antibacterial soaps, bleach, and other chemicals that destroy germs aggressively to a minimum.

How to Increase Bacteria in Septic Tank Naturally – Additional Tips

The way you utilize your household water has a significant impact on how well your septic tank system is performing. Make an effort to use water more efficiently. Accustom yourself to closing the water valve whenever you aren’t in use (e.g. when applying soap to your hands). Small adjustments to one’s daily routine can make a significant effect over time. Water-saving toilets, washing machines, and other bathroom equipment that use less water and produce less waste are also available to you as an option.

See also:  How Does The Inside Of A Septic Tank Work? (TOP 5 Tips)

A single septic tank additive will not be able to take the place of an annual checkup of your sewage tank.

Pumping on a regular basis, combined with periodic do-it-yourself maintenance, will maintain your septic tank system in good working order for many years.

The Takeaway

The bacteria in your septic tank play an important part in the breakdown of the wastewater that goes into it. Flushing non-flushable goods and some drugs can help to lower the amount of germs in the environment. As a result, because the waste is not adequately broken down, it can cause damage to or overfill the septic tank. Having a good understanding of how to develop bacteria in a septic tank on your own is really beneficial in this situation. This is simply accomplished with the use of some do-it-yourself goods.

Increase Bacteria in a Septic Tank

In order to raise bacteria in a septic tank, it is necessary to perform frequent inspections, timely maintenance, and prevent acts that might otherwise deplete the bacteria’s natural supply. When everything else fails, use an addition to boost the amount of bacteria in your septic tank. If you are advised to use an additive, follow the instructions provided by the additive manufacturer. Additives may appear to be cost-effective solutions, but they can really cause difficulties, particularly if you don’t have yearly inspections and normal septic tank pumping performed.

Septic Tank Additives Cannot Replace Routine Maintenance

Solids, grease, and oil are separated from wastewater before it is discharged into the drain field by your septic tank. Aquatic bacteria, including aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, colonize the tank and clean the water while also decomposing organic materials. Oils and grease congeal to produce “scum,” which rises to the surface of the tank’s surface. Solids that cannot be broken down settle and aggregate in the tank, forming a substance known as sludge, which is a term used to describe this accumulation.

A well functioning septic system would, therefore, require regular septic tank pumping, which is typically performed every three to five years.

When your tank’s bacteria is out of balance, it is possible that this is an indication that the tank needs to be pumped. An older septic system – even one that is ten years old – may require upgrading or replacement.

When are Additives Safe for Your Septic Tank?

Inorganic chemicals, organic solvents, and biological additions are all possibilities for septic tank additives. However, before utilizing any of them, please speak with a specialist to ensure that they are suitable for your system. (You can reach us via phone at (503) 630-7802). Solid inorganic additives, which are often acidic or alkaline in nature, can interfere with the proper operation of your septic tank, allowing raw sewage to run into your drain field and clogging pipes and the soil. These chemicals have the potential to damage tanks and distribution boxes as well.

Some examples of how to accomplish this are as follows:

  • Reduce the quantity of water you use by repairing leaking faucets, doing laundry on an irregular basis rather than all at once, and purchasing equipment that use less water. Always avoid draining a hot tub or swimming pool into your septic system or drain field.
  • Don’t overload your septic system with fats, grease, oils, or gasoline. You should also avoid putting coffee grounds, eggshells, or nut shells in your septic system. Reduce the amount of time you use your garbage disposal
  • Use toilet paper that has been specially formulated for septic systems– Some toilet paper decomposes more quickly than others. Never dump feminine products or wipes of any type down the toilet.
  • Don’t flush chemicals down the toilet – Chemicals, including those found in household cleaning products, can destroy beneficial microorganisms in the toilet. Engage the services of a professional — If you believe you need to boost the amount of bacteria in your septic tank, engage the services of a professional such as the Drain Doctor. The use of a quick and simple remedy such as an additive might result in thousands of dollars in damages if what is actually needed is regular maintenance.

DIY Septic Tank Treatment

Septic tank systems are notoriously difficult to maintain and may be quite expensive when they fail. Over the course of almost two decades, we’ve only had to pump our septic tank once. Here’s how we maintain our system running smoothly: DIY Septic Tank Treatment

Natural Enzyme Action

Septic tanks, like your stomach, require the presence of beneficial bacteria and enzymes in order to break down the particles that travel through them. It is possible to obtain these helpful bacteria and enzymes from a variety of sources, but one of our favorites is rotting tomatoes. These naturally occurring enzymes are proteins known as Pectinase or Pectinolytic enzymes, and they break down pectin. Lipase, hydrolyzes, and lyase are all members of the pectinase family of enzymes that are capable of breaking down pectin and plant cell walls in the natural environment, therefore aiding in the decomposition and recycling of waste plant materials.

DIY Septic Tank Treatment

It is simple and inexpensive to treat a septic tank with DIY solutions. We “feed” our septic tank 3-4 rotting tomatoes every 3 months or so, which we do through our garbage disposal. The idea is to make sure that you split up the tomato and pass only half a tomato or so at a time through the water while it is running to ensure that it is properly flushed out. As an alternative, if you don’t have access to a garbage disposal, you may throw two or three large rotting tomatoes in a bag (chances are they’re already packed away in a bag in your refrigerator and starting to liquefy anyway!).

Dump them into a toilet (but don’t use bleach!) and flush them away.

Normally, having rotten tomatoes every few months isn’t a big deal because the garden overproduces in the spring, summer, and fall, and there are always a few extras available.

However, during the winter months, tomatoes have gotten pushed to the back of the fridge and started to liquefy before I realized what was happening. At the very least, they aren’t going to waste completely.

Toilet Paper No-No’s

When we had our septic system pumped for the first time in more than two decades, we were assured that it was totally unnecessary because the system was operating well and looked fantastic. During our conversation, the gentleman shared numerous true horror stories of systems he’d witnessed at his place of employment where the families utilized “fluffy” toilet paper. That one where the cute little bears in the advertisements are pleased of themselves for not having any lint left behind? You know the one I’m talking about.

Image courtesy of Ian Haycoxis (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0).

He especially inquired about the brand of tissue we use, which is Scott Tissue.

Alternatively, if you don’t happen to have any rotting tomatoes on hand, you may use baking or brewing yeast to bring healthy bacteria to your tank as an alternative.

How to Clean Septic Tank Naturally

Yeast and sugar are excellent natural septic tank cleaners, and here’s an easy method for using them.

Septic Tank Cleaner

2 cups granulated sugar 5 cups of hot water (optional) 3 tbsp. active dry yeast Sugar and yeast should be dissolved in water. Pour the mixture into a toilet (that does not contain bleach!) and flush it. This is best done at night so that the yeast may continue to work throughout the night; do not flush for at least 3 hours after completion.

Additional Tips:

1Avoid flushing raw or cooked meat down the toilet, down the garbage disposal, or any other form of introducing meat into your septic system; meat is NEVER a helpful bacterium. 2. Never add oils, grease, or fat in any form (solid or liquid) to your tank. This includes, but is not limited to, cooking oils, bacon grease, meat grease from draining ground beef/turkey, and other fat-containing foods. 3Avoid flushing anything other than garbage and toilet paper down the toilet; this means that feminine products should be disposed of in the trash, baby diapers and wipes should be disposed of in the trashcan, and so on.

Have you tried the rotten tomato technique yet?

Love this DIY Septic Tank Treatment Idea? Pin it!

No matter if you’re brand new to owning a septic system or have been in possession of one for some time, you’ve probably heard contradictory opinions about the benefits—or lack thereof—of adding bacteria to your tank. The benefits and downsides of adding bacteria to your septic tank are discussed in detail by our septic system maintenance company in Cleveland, TX, so that you can make a well-informed choice on the most appropriate course of action for both you and your septic system. Firstly, we should examine the operation of your septic system, as it is likely that your tank already contains anaerobic bacteria.

In your septic system, wastewater is treated and cleaned as it flows through the system.

Solid stuff settles to the bottom of the tank, where it is eventually decomposed by the anaerobic bacteria that already live in the tank. These bacteria that are already present perform an important role in the treatment of wastewater. Advantages of incorporating microorganisms

  • They can be beneficial if your system is being subjected to excessive stress: Addition of bacteria may be beneficial if you anticipate that your septic tank users will consistently overload the system or place items in the toilet or drains that they shouldn’t (such as chemicals or sanitary products). Adding bacteria may help by maintaining a more stable balance of bacteria in the system. Existing products make it simple: for example, There are currently treatments on the market that are said to introduce beneficial bacteria, such as Rid-X, and you can locate one that is tailored specifically for the type of septic system you have. Because these treatments are readily available, there is no longer any doubt regarding what sort of therapy to use or how much to apply, making the procedure less difficult. As a result of the fact that people consume yeast with no problems, baker’s yeast has been demonstrated to be a safe addition to your system.

The disadvantages of introducing microorganisms

  • They are not a substitute for routine maintenance: If you want bacteria to take the place of regular maintenance in your septic tank, you should think twice before introducing them. A professional to pump your septic tank is the only definite way for clearing out the sludge that has accumulated in your system
  • Nevertheless, it is not inexpensive. A large body of research has demonstrated that they do not make a beneficial difference: A substantial amount of study has been undertaken, and the results have revealed that introducing bacteria to a septic system has no positive overall impact. It has even been discovered in some of this study that additives may be hazardous to septic tank systems.

It should be noted that they are not a substitute for routine maintenance: If you want bacteria to take the place of regular maintenance in your septic tank, you should rethink introducing them. It is the only guaranteed option for clearing out the sludge that has accumulated in your septic tank to hire a professional to pump it out for you. According to a large body of research, they do not have a beneficial effect: The results of a substantial amount of study have demonstrated that introducing bacteria to a septic system has no overall beneficial impact.

How Do I Increase Good Bacteria In My Septic Tank

They are not a substitute for regular maintenance: If you want bacteria to take the place of regular maintenance in your septic tank, you should think twice before doing so. To ensure that the sludge that has accumulated in your septic tank is removed, you should hire a professional to pump it out. A great deal of study has demonstrated that they do not make a beneficial difference: A substantial amount of study has been undertaken, and the results have revealed that introducing bacteria to a septic system has no overall beneficial impact.

  • The use of chemical cleansers on a regular basis can be detrimental to the bacterial population because they destroy good bacteria from the system, causing the waste digesting process to become obstructed. If you have different sorts of non-biodegradable waste material in your toilet, you should avoid flushing it down the toilet since it is difficult to decompose, unlike organic trash. In turn, this causes stress on the bacterial population, rendering them unable of functioning
  • Keep antibacterial soaps and strong chemical septic tank treatment solutions away from your sewage tank since they can kill germs. Experts also recommend that people reduce their water consumption at home. This is due to the fact that an excessive amount of water can upset the delicate balance of the septic tank environment, impairing bacterial efficiency.

How to Increase the Number of Beneficial Bacteria Because they can aid in the proper supply and growth of healthy and beneficial bacteria, it is essential that you follow the recommendations above. You must also enhance the amount of beneficial bacteria in your septic tank in order to ensure that it always runs smoothly. Using septic tank enzymes to restore the system’s beneficial bacterial population is the most effective alternative available today for this purpose. It increases the number of helpful bacteria in the system and aids in the decomposition of organic solid waste, among other things.

Organica Biotech is a pioneer in the development of environmentally friendly and technologically sophisticated septic system solutions.

Similarly, Bioclean Septic Plus is a septic tank treatment product that refills the system while increasing bacterial activity, which aids in the decomposition of faecal matter and food waste.

How to Naturally Clean & Maintain Your Septic System

Without the proper knowledge, septic systems may be difficult to keep up with and manage. If you suspect that your toilets aren’t flushing properly or that your pipes may need some cleaning, you should avoid introducing harsh chemicals into your septic system since they can disturb the naturally existing biome of bacteria that is necessary for the system to work effectively.

Our team at Fagone Plumbing was inspired to publish a blog post that would teach readers how to add a natural cleanse to their septic system without endangering the system’s performance.

Simple, Quick Cleanse

This procedure is a quick, mild remedy that is also effective. It is very simple to use. It is necessary to use the power of baking soda, vinegar, and lemon to achieve success with this procedure. Starting with a quarter-cup baking soda and a half-cup vinegar mixture, pour it directly into the toilet. Repeat this process several times. After that, squeeze in two teaspoons of lemon juice. A chemical reaction occurs when the baking soda and vinegar are mixed, resulting in a fizzing sound and the breakdown of grime and debris.

See also:  How Often Should You Clean A 900 Gallon Septic Tank? (TOP 5 Tips)

Following a flush, this solution will clean the inside of your toilet bowl and the pipes that run through your system as a result.

Homemade Septic Tank Treatment

With this procedure, you may get a quick and mild remedy that also happens to be effective. It is necessary to use the power of baking soda, vinegar, and lemon to achieve success with this technique. Starting with a quarter-cup baking soda and a half-cup vinegar mixture, flush the toilet immediately after mixing. Two teaspoons of lemon juice are then added. In a chemical reaction, the combination of baking soda and vinegar produces bubbles that aid in the removal of grime and filth. The acidity of the lemon contributes to this process while also providing a lovely scent.

Furthermore, because this is a natural remedy, it will not have an adverse effect on your system’s beneficial microbes.

Fagone Plumbing Can Help!

If you have any reason to believe your septic system may be performing better, give Fagone Plumbing a call right away! It doesn’t matter if it’s a bacteria problem or something else; we will be able to assess the problem and deliver the most cost-effective solution to get your septic system back up and running correctly!

Maintain Your Septic System Naturally

On December 5, 2020, the information was updated. However, while this isn’t an enjoyable topic for polite discussion, having your septic system back up into your home is far from pleasant. There are actions that you can do to not only avoid septic issues in the future, but also to guarantee that the process of breaking down flushed waste proceeds as it should.

A Well-Functioning Septic System

The title of this article may be “The Care and Maintenance of the Gut in Your Yard,” which would be more descriptive. Understanding the necessity and advantages of eating dietary fiber, alkaline-forming foods, and taking probiotics for your own gut health will help you recognize the similarities between keeping a healthy septic system and maintaining a healthy digestive system. There are some items that you should avoid putting into any septic system, just as there are certain substances that are favorable to putting into our own digestive systems.

If you wait until there is a problem, you have waited too long and should contact a septic cleaning firm to pump your tank immediately. Slow water drainage, as well as water backing up in the toilet, dishwasher, tub, or sinks, are signs that you may have a septic system problem.

Septic System Care and Maintenance Tips:

  • A family of four living in a house with a 1,000-gallon tank should have their septic system cleaned every four years, according to the EPA. Inquire with your local septic cleaning firm about how frequently you should contact them
  • Avoid using bleach-containing solutions to clean your toilets since it kills the bacteria that are necessary for the breakdown of waste particles in your septic system. Try this all-natural toilet cleanser
  • It works great.
  • When you add yeast to your septic system, it helps to aggressively break down waste particles, which is beneficial. Using the first time, flush a 12-cup package of dried baking yeast down the toilet. After the initial addition, add 14 cup of instant yeast every 4 months for the next 4 months. For those who are planning to install or have their existing septic system pumped, it’s a good idea to know precisely where it is in your yard so that you don’t have to dig up a lot of your lawn when the system is pumped in the future. With a tape measure, measure the precise distance between the septic tank lid and the home, and then snap a photo of the exact distance with your mobile phone to prove you were accurate. Maintain a copy of the snapshot in a home maintenance file on your computer for future reference.
Deborah Tukua

Deborah Tukua is a natural living and healthy lifestyle writer who has written seven non-fiction books, including Naturally Sweet Blender Treats. She lives in Hawaii with her family. Since 2004, she has contributed to the Farmers’ Almanac as a writer.

Keep Exploring

It should go without saying that regular maintenance is the most effective approach to keep your septic system in good working order. However, did you realize that correct function has a lot to do with the “health” of the bacteria that live inside your septic system? Your tank functions as a small waste water treatment plant, breaking down sediments with care, separating heavy particles to the bottom of the tank, and flushing “clean” water out to your drainfield, where it gently filters back into the earth.

Continue reading to gain a greater understanding of the inner workings of your home’s most important utility, or contact us now to schedule your Lancaster Pa septic treatment.

How Things Work

It is critical to understand how your septic system works in order to properly maintain it. Septic tanks are a very simple system that properly treats and recycles wastewater. It is powered mostly by gravity, fluid dynamics, and microorganisms, and it does so in an environmentally friendly manner. To be precise, healthy bacteria are required for the correct operation of your septic tank since they break down waste materials. We’ve become accustomed to viewing bacteria in a negative light, as seen by the profusion of disinfectants, sanitizers, and anti-bacterial items that can be found in almost every home.

The collapse of “dead” septic tanks is becoming an increasingly common occurrence.

How to Keep Your Septic System Healthy

  1. Avoid using chemicals for flushing or rinsing, as well as paint or anti-bacterial products. It’s going down the drain A variety of substances such as sulfates, chemicals, paint thinners, and cleansers can upset the delicate balance of beneficial microorganisms in your septic tank. Avoid flushing or washing any of these substances down the drain, or dilute them as much as possible if it is absolutely essential to flush or rinse them down the drain. It’s possible that you’ll need to invest in a septic system additive if you run a grooming business, carwash, or at-home salon that uses harsh products on a regular basis. Septic system additives can help maintain the healthy balance of bacteria in your tank, allowing waste water to properly filter through your drainfield and back into the ground. (Read on for additional information in Tip2!)
  2. Bio-Active or another septic system additive should be used. Every month, adding a little amount of Bio-Active will help to replenish the good worker bacteria and enzymes that will help to combat the effects of home disinfectants. Bio-Active makes it simple to maintain a clean and sterilized home environment, as well as a healthy bacteria population in your septic tank, thanks to its unique formulation. The use of Bio-Active on a monthly basis will aid in the reduction of surface and bottom particles in the septic tank. It is possible for a buildup of surface and bottom solids to migrate into the leach field, causing the leach field to become blocked. Once the system becomes blocked, there is nowhere for the water to escape, and the tank begins to fill, resulting in a backup in the house and puddles in the yard. The use of Bio-Active helps to reestablish the biological population of beneficial worker bacteria and enzymes that help to remove particulates in the water. The beneficial bacteria are also transported to the leach field, where they aid in the reduction of sediments and the prevention of blockage. A blocked leach field is the most serious problem that can occur in a septic system, and it is also the most difficult and expensive to fix. Click here to find out more about Bio-Active Septic System Additive or to obtain a sample at your next septic service appointment.
  3. Whenever possible, avoid using a garbage disposal and NEVER flush grease or food products down the toilet. Unless you have a trash disposal that can handle large amounts of waste, you should refrain from utilizing one entirely. Garbage disposals have been shown to increase the quantity of solids in a septic tank by as much as 50% in some cases. Having second thoughts about getting rid of your garbage disposal? We understand what you’re saying. Depending on how frequently you use your garbage disposal, it may necessitate more frequent pumping
  4. Nonetheless, you have the last say. The most important thing to remember is that garbage disposals are not garbage cans
  5. Thus, whenever in doubt, throw it out! When it comes to lubricant, use caution. Grease may cause chaos in your septic tank by thickening the water and disrupting the natural balance of beneficial bacteria that your tank requires to break down particles and waste. Cooking trash that has been improperly handled is one of the most significant contributors to excess oil in your tank. Excess fat should be disposed of properly, whether you’re frying bacon, draining the drippings from your Thanksgiving turkey, or just cleaning your greasiest cooking pans. Oil and grease are not only harmful to your septic tank, but they may also accumulate within your pipes over time, limiting the streams that carry wastewater to your septic tank. Grease accumulation is the most common cause of septic system backups, and clearing obstructions frequently necessitates the use of high-pressure jetting.

Follow these guidelines to build a septic system that will efficiently handle your wastewater for many years to come. Make sure to get your tank pumped out every 2-4 years, and don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any septic-related issues or requirements! Providing dependable septic tank pumping in Lancaster, Pennsylvania and the neighboring regions is something we take pride in.

Understanding Your Septic Tank’s Bacteria and Enzymes

Your septic tank is home to an entire ecosystem of living creatures that assist it in performing its essential functions. As living things, the bacteria in your tank may require a little assistance from time to time in order to carry out their functions. If you understand how things should occur in your septic tank, you will be more equipped to recognize when the bacteria in your tank are causing problems. What Bacteria and Enzymes Do to Assist in the Function of Your Septic Tank The presence of large colonies of bacteria and enzymes in your septic tank prevents the tank from backing up or becoming overfilled.

  1. Under optimal conditions, the bacteria and enzymes in your tank will seldom require assistance in carrying out their functions.
  2. In addition to eating the garbage, microorganisms are responsible for converting vast amounts of it into liquids and gases.
  3. The Things That You Can Do to Affect the Septic Tank’s pH Balance These live colonies are responsible for keeping your septic tank in balance, but they are also vulnerable to a variety of factors that might weaken them or reduce their efficacy.
  4. People, on the other hand, have the ability to quickly disturb that equilibrium in a variety of ways.
  5. Solid waste can only be consumed by the bacteria in your tank at a certain rate.
  6. Instead than memorizing all of the items that should not be flushed down the toilet, focus on learning what is safe for your plumbing and septic system.
  7. Anything else should be avoided.

The number and types of sediments that you drain or flush should be limited, to name a few considerations.

Putting things down the drain that will destroy bacteria is not a good idea.

If the bacteria in the tank die, there will be nothing left in the tank to break down waste.

It is common for germs to be destroyed when poisonous goods or powerful cleansers are used and allowed to enter your drains.

You can use your cleaning supplies, but you should use caution when doing so.

Medicines can potentially have negative interactions with the bacteria and enzymes in your tank, causing them to die.

What Contributes to the Health of Your Septic Tank Bacteria Even if you pay attention to what you do, the bacteria in your septic tank may require assistance from time to time.

A correctly provided additive can assist to strengthen microorganisms, aid in the removal of difficult substances, and promote the proliferation of these organisms.

Contacting a professional provider is the most effective approach to deal with any septic tank problem you may be encountering.

Septic tank inspection, cleaning, diagnosis, and repair are all things that Walters Environmental Services can do for you. If you have any problems or questions about your septic tank, please call us right away.

7 Tips to Take Care of Your Septic System

Every editorial product is chosen on its own merits, while we may be compensated or earn an affiliate commission if you purchase something after clicking on one of our affiliate links. As of the time of writing, the ratings and pricing are correct, and all goods are in stock.

Maintaining a home’s septic system may seem like a daunting and stinky task, but it’s really not. Being mindful of what you’re doing inside the home will keep the system healthy.

Preventing and treating problems with your septic system is not difficult and does not have to be expensive. Failure to maintain your septic system, on the other hand, might result in significant financial loss, since digging up and rebuilding a septic system can cost tens of thousands of dollars.

What Is a Septic System?

Because it treats all of the wastewater that comes from your home, including the water from the bathrooms, kitchen, and laundry room, if your home is not connected to a municipal water and sewer system, your septic system is essential if you do not live in a city. Septic systems are typically comprised of a tank, into which wastewater flows for treatment and solid waste is separated from liquid waste. Microorganisms break down the organic stuff in wastewater, allowing it to be recycled. A perforated pipe system transports wastewater from there to a drain or leach field, which collects the effluent.

Get Familiar With Your Septic System

Understanding how your septic tank works, what sort of system it is, and where it is placed are all important first steps in proper maintenance. The county or town should keep a record of the permit, as well as a chart showing the tank’s layout and placement, because state rules demand a permit for septic system installation. Visual clues, such as sewage covers, or the direction in which the sewer pipe, which is located in the basement, runs out of the home, may be able to assist you in your search.

See also:  How A Septic Tank Could Crack? (Best solution)

Have It Pumped Routinely

Every three to five years, the ordinary residential septic system should be pumped (that is, the sediments should be removed). According on the size of the tank, the typical price of pumping a residential septic tank is between $300 and $600. When you contact a septic service company, they will also inspect your septic tank for leaks and evaluate the sludge layers in your tank for any problems. Remember to save a copy of any maintenance paperwork pertaining to work performed on your septic tank.

Spread Your Washing Machine/Dishwasher Usage Throughout the Week

You may believe that scheduling a “laundry day,” during which you wash all of your clothing and possibly even run your dishwasher, would save you time. However, it puts a great deal of strain on your septic system. If you don’t allow your septic system enough time to process the wastewater, you risk overloading the system and flooding your drainfield with wastewater. Replace this with doing a full load of laundry (to ensure that you are not wasting water) a couple of times a week.

Don’t Treat Your Toilet Like a Trash Can

The only item that should be flushed down the toilet that does not come out of your body is toilet paper. Everything else should be discarded. This implies that there will be no tissues, diapers, feminine items, hair, dental floss, or anything else. Toilet paper is supposed to decompose in the septic tank after it has been used. Any additional materials are not permitted; they will clog and cause harm to your septic tank.

Make sure you use toilet paper that is safe for use with your septic system. Some of the luxurious, pricey ones that include lotions and additional plys may clog your system or introduce unwelcome substances into it.

Think About What You Dump Down the Kitchen Sink Drain

We flush a variety of items down the kitchen sink that might cause serious damage to a septic system. Never flush objects down the sink drain, including coffee grounds, eggshells, medicine, produce stickers, flour, and other such items. All of these things can clog pipes and cause screens to get obstructed. Do not dispose of any oil, including cooking oils and paint, grease, and fat since these substances will block your sewer line and cause it to back up into your home. Even dairy products such as milk, cream, and butter are harmful if they are flushed down the toilet.

When you use a garbage disposal in conjunction with a septic tank, the ground-up food particles contribute to the layer of solids that accumulates at the bottom of the tank’s bottom.

Be Careful With Cleaning Chemicals

Cleaning agents that homeowners use can be harmful to the beneficial microorganisms in their septic systems. When washing textiles, avoid using harsh chemicals such as bleach. If you absolutely must, use only a little quantity of the product. Use of drain cleaners is discouraged since, in addition to destroying beneficial bacteria, they can cause harm to the tank itself. Alternatively, if a plunger does not work, a toilet drain snake, which is also effective on clogged kitchen and bathroom sinks, may be used.

Quaternary ammonia is also present in antibacterial soaps and disinfectants, which should be avoided.

Protect Your Drainfield

As previously said, proper management of your drainfield begins with careful monitoring of water consumption and the materials that enter your septic system. Never drive or park a vehicle on top of your drainage system. Make certain that gutters and sump pumps discharge water far enough away from the drainfield to prevent flooding. Avoid growing trees and bushes in close proximity to the drainfield since the roots of these plants might interfere with the pipes.

Tips On How To Increase The Bacteria In Your Septic Tank

Septic tanks have been in use for a very long period of time. Water treatment plants are a great way to get rid of wastewater. It is possible, however, that your septic system will face issues if the bacteria levels in your tank are not sufficient. Fortunately, there are some simple methods that you may improve the performance of your septic tank by increasing the bacterial numbers in it.

How Important Is Septic Tank Bacteria

The term “bacteria” conjures up images of harmful germs, yet there are also beneficial strains of bacteria. There is one kind in particular, known as ” anaerobic “, that is beneficial in keeping a septic system working efficiently. Septic tank anaerobic bacteria break down any waste that doesn’t get drained immediately into a treatment plant, making it easier to handle further down the line. Solids can cluster together and create clumps of sludge (also known as “slime”) when there are insufficient or no microbes present.

There are two forms of bacteria that may infect your septic system: aerobic bacteria and anaerobic bacteria.

The survival of aerobic organisms is dependent on the availability of oxygen; hence, they require a continual supply of air from external sources.

The bacteria in your septic tank are essentially the primary reason sewage systems function, therefore it’s critical to keep them in good condition.

Your pipes will become clogged over time if there is an excessive buildup of sludge or if something prevents them from exiting the system (such as hair) over time. This might pose issues because you’ll always have a backup in case something goes wrong.

What Can You Do To Increase The Good Bacteria In Your Septic Tank?

When you think of bacteria, you might think of bad bacteria, but there are also healthy bacteria. The term “anaerobic” refers to a certain type of bacteria that helps maintain a septic system working efficiently. Septic tank anaerobic bacteria break down any waste that doesn’t get flushed immediately into a treatment plant, making it easier to handle later on down the line. Solids can cluster together and create clumps of sludge (also known as “slime”) when there are too few or no microorganisms present.

There are two forms of bacteria that may infect your septic system: aerobic bacteria and anaerobic bacteria.

The survival of aerobic organisms is dependent on the availability of oxygen; hence, they require a constant supply of air from external sources.

Septic tanks function because of the bacteria that live in them, thus it’s necessary to keep them in good condition as long as possible.

  • Every three months, flush 1/2 cup of dried baking yeast down the toilet to clean it. This will encourage the growth of beneficial microorganisms. One other natural method is to dump 3 to 4 rotting tomatoes (tomatoes that are passed their peak) into your waste disposal once every three months. Maintain your septic tank in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations. More information may be found here.

What You Should Avoid

  • Don’t flush bleach down the toilet or down the drain, or anywhere else where the bleach might end up in your septic tank. Using bleach to clean your septic system can kill the germs in it. Non-flushable products (such as tampons) should never be flushed down the toilet. Fatty foods, grease, cooking oils, and any type of meat (raw or cooked) should not be disposed of through your garbage disposal.

What Kinds of Products Should You Use Septic tank additives are being used to increase the amount of bacteria in the septic system, but not all plumbers believe that this is a viable solution for the problem. Consult with your plumber to find out what he or she suggests for your particular system. By maintaining high levels of bacteria in your septic system, you will aid your septic tank in its ability to dispose of sewage in a timely way. 770-443-8229 If you have any questions regarding your septic system or are experiencing difficulties with it, give Atlantis Plumbing a call as soon as possible.

Dos & Donts

DosDontsniftyadmin2022-02-01T18:18:38+00:00 Make an appointment for a free on-site quote now!

Do’sDon’ts for a Healthy Septic System

Deceased bacteria = non-operational septic system = PROBLEMS = RENOVATIONS

  1. Use your waste disposal only when absolutely necessary. Because it has not been digested by the body, ground-up food is particularly difficult on the septic system to deal with it. The usage of your garbage disposal on a regular basis puts a strain on the system’s ability to digest particles and causes your septic tank to fill with sludge. Your system will suffer as a result of this, both physiologically and chemically. Food waste should be disposed of in a rubbish can or compost pit. Roof drainage, basement drainage, footing drainage, and surface water must all be kept out of the system in order for it to function properly. Unless otherwise specified, this drainage water can be dumped directly to the ground surface without treatment
  2. However, it should be directed away from your sewage treatment system. There should be no drainage of roof downspouts into the drain field. While it is not typically required to connect your laundry wastes to a separate waste system (dry well or seepage pit), doing so will lower the strain on the regular system and allow a mediocre system to survive. Keep swimming pools (above-ground or in-ground) away from the absorption field to avoid contamination. When washing garments, make sure you use the appropriate load size. Try to avoid washing all of your laundry in one sitting. This will aid in preventing sediments from being pushed out into the drain field by flow spikes. Always avoid allowing large pieces of equipment to travel through the absorption field. Installation of a ditch or berm to capture surface water from higher terrain that is running into your absorption field is recommended. Have your septic tank pumped out every 3-5 years (depending on the number of people living in the home) to avoid sludge buildup that can lead to drain field collapse and other problems. It is recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that homeowners have their septic system inspected by a qualified professional at least once every three years, and that a 1000 gallon septic tank should be pumped once every 3.7 years in a household of three people and once every 1.5 years in a household of six people
  3. To ensure that you have a valid septic permit, contact your local health district (link to district health). Locate and identify the location of your septic tank (drain field and tank). Keep a sketch of it with your maintenance records in case a service technician has to see it. Keep your replacement area to a minimum. Each drain field has a position where it may be changed if the situation calls for it. If you build on or too near to this region, it may cause problems if the original drain field needs to be rebuilt later on. Consider the fact that a properly built and maintained drain field has an average lifespan of around 20 years. Maintain your septic system on a regular basis by introducing the appropriate sort of bacteria/enzyme product to your septic system through your toilet or kitchen sink drain. Including a product such as “BioClean” in your cleaning routine helps to replenish the bacteria that has been killed by your typical household cleaning chemicals. ABC Pumping Services may be contacted at (208) 954-5339 for more information.
  1. Planting trees or bushes over or near the septic system or over the drain field is not recommended since the roots will grow into the system and interfere with the correct operation of the system. When washing dishes, do not allow food waste or organic waste to run down the drain. If you want to “feed” your septic system, don’t flush meat, buttermilk, yeast, veggies, beer, or anything else down the drain. This is incorrect information, and it will cause your septic system to overwork. Keep faucets and toilets from dripping or running. Leaving excess water running continuously might cause your drain field to become overloaded, or “waterlogged.” You should avoid flooding the drain field with extra irrigation water. Drain-O, Red Devil, and Liquid Plumber, among other caustic drain openers, should not be used to unclog a clogged drain. This will cause the healthy bacteria in your septic system to be killed out. Drain openers such as a snake or bacterial enzyme drain openers should be used instead of items that claim to sanitize, sterilize, disinfect, destroy germs, or be antibacterial. Antibiotics, sanitizing soaps, disinfection and antimicrobial cleaning solutions such as Lysol and Clorox, to mention a few examples, are included in this category. Antimicrobial compounds are now found in many body and hand soaps
  2. Do not flush harmful chemicals down the toilet, such as home chemicals, paints, gasoline, acids, or pesticides
  3. And do not flush down the toilet antimicrobial chemicals. When treated on a regular basis with an enzyme/bacterial stimulant product such as BioClean, detergents, kitchen wastes, laundry wastes, and home chemicals in modest amounts have no effect on the correct operation of domestic sewage treatment systems. Excessive doses of any of these, on the other hand, can be dangerous
  4. Please do not flush fats, oils, or grease down the toilet. Toilet tank pills or liquids should not be used to clean your toilet since they can harden and cause clogging over time
  5. Instead, use a toilet plunger to clean your toilet. Diapers, kitty litter, cigarettes, plastic-rubber items, dental floss, baby/hand wipes, cotton products, paper towels, or feminine hygiene products should not be flushed down the toilet since these harsh chemicals destroy beneficial bacteria in your septic system
  6. Instead, use a garbage disposal. These items are indestructible
  7. They never need to be replaced.

We feel it is critical to support organizations and businesses who are striving to make a good difference in our industry and community at large. We take great satisfaction in growing as a company by utilizing the greatest products, from reliable vendors, and ethical business procedures in order to provide superior service to our customers. It would not be feasible to deliver the Honest and Ethical Service that we do without the support of our industry partners and the client relationships that we have built across Southern Idaho since 1948.

a link to the page’s load

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *