How does backwash brine affect septic tanks?
- In studies with septic tanks, which are quiescent (not mixed), the high concentration of salt introduced by backwash brine causes stratification in the tank. The salt water dives to the bottom of the tank, and the fresh water rides across the surface of the brine layer.
Will bromine hurt a septic system?
A few gallons of bromine treated water is not going to hurt a septic tank but large quantities make your own off too much of the septic tank bacteria needed for proper septic tank operation.
Can you put bleach down the drain with a septic tank?
Chlorine bleach in moderate amounts isn ‘t as bad for a septic system as you may have heard. But even a little drain cleaner may be terrible. One study found that it took nearly two gallons of liquid bleach but only about a teaspoon of chemical drain cleaner to kill the beneficial bacteria in a septic tank.
What cleaners should you not use with a septic tank?
Top 10 products to avoid using when you have a septic tank
- Fabric softeners. The principle of operation of fabric softeners is what makes them a bad idea for septic system owners.
- Latex products.
- Medicines.
- Antibacterial soap.
- Cosmetics.
- Drain cleaners.
- Bleach.
- Dishwasher and laundry detergent.
How do you break down solids in a septic tank?
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 will ruin a septic system?
Any paper products like tissues, paper towels, tampons, or sanitary products, even some heavier toilet paper, will clog your system if you flush enough of it. Wet wipes are another product that you should never flush into a septic system.
What is the best toilet bowl cleaner to use if you have a septic system?
For anyone on a septic system, the need to use a septic-safe toilet cleaner is very important. Fluidmaster’s self-cleaning 8202 Flush ‘n Sparkle toilet bowl cleaner is the best option for toilets with septic tanks.
Is hydrogen peroxide safe for septic tanks?
Will Hydrogen Peroxide harm my septic system? No – Septic systems rely upon “aerobic bacteria” which thrive in an oxygenated environment. Unlike chlorine/bleach, Hydrogen Peroxide adds oxygen instead of removing it.
Is vinegar harmful to septic tanks?
Will baking soda hurt a septic system? Baking soda and other common household solutions such as vinegar are not harmful to your septic system. Harsh chemicals such as bleach and ammonia can disrupt the good bacteria in your septic tank and should not be used as part of a septic treatment.
Is Epsom salt good for septic systems?
While Epsom salt doesn’t cause damage to your septic tank, this doesn’t necessarily mean you should go flushing it into your tank. Many individuals think flushing Epsom salt in their septic tanks will break down waste. While salts can unclog a toilet, the effect Epsom salt has on your septic system will be minimal.
Is Dawn dish soap septic safe?
Yes, Dawn Platinum is septic safe!
How do I increase bacteria in my 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.
Is Dawn powerwash safe for septic tanks?
One of the best know is commercials for Dawn dish soap. The ability for the cleaner to disperse oil and grease is better for cleaning, as it helps to break it up. The reason these are bad for septic systems is because if you use too much they can leach out into the environment without being properly treated.
What eats sludge in septic tank?
One example of a homemade remedy is to flush ¼-½ a cup of instant yeast down your toilet. The yeast eats away at the sludge and helps loosen it, breaking it down so that wastewater can get through.
How do you dissolve septic sludge?
How to Reduce Sludge in a Septic Tank Without Pumping
- Install an aeration system with diffused air in your septic tank.
- Break up any compacted sludge.
- Add a bio-activator or microbe blend.
- Maintain the aeration system.
- Add additional Microbes as required.
What breaks down sludge in septic tank?
Bacteria that lives in the tank helps to break down the sludge, turning it into a liquid. Near the top of the septic tank is a pipe that leads to a part of the yard called the drain field.
Bromine in septic tank?
Hello everyone, I’m writing to express my gratitude for your time and consideration. The wife experimented with some chlorine-based tablet things in the toilet tank, and it worked wonders in keeping the bowl clean. Because the quantity of Chlorine entering the tank was so minimal, the pills were deemed acceptable for use in septic tanks. However, after around 3 months, all of the seals in the tank began to deteriorate. I changed them all, and there are no longer any pills. Momma needs to put in some more effort.:) New information has been received concerning a bromine tablet method that feeds the treated water directly into the bowl water-flow rather than let it to sit in the tank.
The question is whether or not tiny volumes of bromine flushed into the septic tank (1000 gallons) will cause a problem.
🙂 I’ve got to quit eating asparagus!
Because the quantity of Chlorine entering the tank was so minimal, the pills were deemed acceptable for use in septic tanks.
- I got rid of them all and there are no more pills.
- That’s a good idea.
- We only flush the toilets when there are solids in them, and even then, only about twice or three times a day to keep the collected pee*if*it s tarts from smelling.
- Unless you’re dealing with a severe water shortage for whatever reason, why not simply flush the toilets more frequently and avoid the tablets altogether?
- I don’t use any pills, and I’m not having any issues.
- Although the chlorine pills did not cause any problems, I can not understand why bromine would, given that they are both present at comparable modest proportions.
- Because the quantity of Chlorine entering the tank was so minimal, the pills were deemed acceptable for use in septic tanks.
I got rid of them all and there are no more pills.
That’s a good idea.
We only flush the toilets when there are solids in them, and even then, only about twice or three times a day to keep the collected pee*if*it s tarts from smelling.
Read the previous topic about experimenting with different methods to remove brown stain?
commodes that don’t require any elbow grease and look brand new!
One treatment, on the other hand, might continue for more than a month.
Simply use muriatic acid @ $5/gal from HD; drop water level to minimum poor in 1/4 cup or so, swirl around, add baking soda until fizzing stops, flush, and you’re finished.
Don’t inhale any fumes. They sneak up on you and take advantage of you. I suffered a nasal bleed after working in two toilets with scarcely any odors to my nostrils. So turn on the fan, open the window, and take a deep breath. Work is not available in return for such safeguards.
So, what exactly are you folks consuming that it takes so much effort to keep your bathrooms tidy? It happens with my well water, and the amount varies. A sediment filter is installed, but I did not believe the water was hard enough to warrant a full treatment system. I’ve found this thread to be quite intriguing. The muriatic acid in commercial cleansers is approximately half the strength of the concentrated muriatic acid, which would be the most cost-effective solution. It is usually advisable to dilute acid for usage in the home because concentrated acid vapors are caustic and highly penetrating.
- The deposits are not actually made of solids, but rather of urine.
- The problem is the same everywhere, it’s just a little more acute under certain conditions.
- After hours of cajoling the deposit off the bowl, there was still residue and it came back with a fury, despite the cajoling.
- It takes ten seconds and is done for months.
- Is there no water treatment?
- One of two houses built by the same contractor, and both of which are equipped with a LARGE, EXPENSIVE septic system that originates from New England and doubly processes the effluent, resulting in runoff that is cleaner than most river water.
- His field has visible white salt stains all over it after less than a year of use, as well as some type of blackish colouring that is difficult to see in the sunlight.
- After two years of usage, there is almost no coloring on my field whatsoever.
- As a result, I’m confident that not installing a water softener was a wise decision.
- The tank appears to be in good condition, however we have to change the bottom heating element on average every six months – well, that’s because we have hard water.
- Thank you for bringing this to our attention!
My wife has been pleading with me to locate Kaboom, but I’ve been unable to do it. Hopefully, I’ll be in HD today and pick up some!
I’m not a fan of the thought of having extra equipment in the house to maintain and worry about. The sediment filter removes the majority of the brown material, and I only have to replace the cartridge every six months. The plumber I hired provided a free water test with the evident goal of selling me a water treatment system. I observed the data, and as a chemist, I am well aware of when results are on the verge of being unimportant. The same may be said for pH. The pH of water is 6.5, which is mildly acidic.
- Pinhole leaks have occurred in the past, but it has been more than 12 years since the most recent one.
- I have alternative drain fields and am now on the original field, which has been in use for about the previous ten years; the grass on top is not very lush, but it is absolutely devoid of moisture.
- The clean out expert suggested using liquid detergents and avoiding putting fatty material down the garbage disposal.
- The assistance of a chemist is much appreciated!
- Instead of using chlorine pills (in a Kaboom system that bypasses the tank), I recently utilized spa brominating tables instead, out of concern about inhaling chlorine gas.
- Is the off-gassing from bromine or chlorine pills hazardous to human health?
- There is a good chance that bromine is somewhat less hazardous than chlorine.
- I don’t like using toilet bowl cleansers that have to sit in the toilet tank for an extended period of time.
I purchased this from HomeDepot and Amazon: Flush’n Sparkle Self-Cleaning Toilet System8200 Septic, which is safe for internal tank parts because it flushes the bleach water directly into the toilet; however, you must purchase the 1″ diameter Borane Tablets and cut the refill cartridge after the tightening channel in order to insert the Borane Tablets.
Guide to Household chemicals and cleaners poured down drains into the septic tank
- SUBMIT YOUR ASK OR COMMENTON THE EFFECTS OF HOUSEHOLD CHEMICALS, SOAPS, ETC. ON THE FUNCTION OF A SEPTIC TANK AND DRAINS
InspectAPedia does not allow any form of conflict of interest. The sponsors, goods, and services described on this website are not affiliated with us in any way. Frequently Asked Questions and Answers regarding what common household chemicals, substances, and waste products are acceptable to flush down the toilet and into a private septic system This article series examines which home chemicals are likely to cause damage to a septic tank or leach field, as well as at what levels of usage they are hazardous.
For this topic, we also have anARTICLE INDEX available, or you may check the top or bottom of the page. Use the SEARCH BOX to discover the information you’re looking for quickly.
FAQs on Household Chemicals Flushed Into a Septic System
When flushing various household chemicals or items down drains and into a septic tank or private septic system, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. This information was first provided atCHEMICALSCLEANERS into the SEPTICTANK? Make careful to read the suggestions made there. Please bear in mind that these questions and answers are about keeping certain home chemicals out of septic tanks and are part of ourTOILETS, DON’T FLUSH LIST. It is an entirely other matter to apply chemical treatments in your septic tank or drainfield on purpose – something that is typically not suggested and is described separately atCHEMICALSTREATMENTS for SEPTICS.
- Hair color will not have a negative influence on septic systems when used in the usual course of a home.
- Is it possible that hair coloring has an impact on septic systems?
- They should be extremely dilute by the time they reach the much bigger septic tank, and they should be further dilute by the typical wastewater generated on a daily basis.
- The poison is created by the dosage.
- The answer will be dependent on the quantity of disinfectant used, the concentration of disinfectant used, the frequency of usage, the size of the septic tank, and the average daily volume of wastewater discharged into the system.
- Does using bromine-treated water in a septic tank violate any regulations?
- Regardless matter what disinfection may be included in the denture cleaning, it will be diluted by 1000 gallons or more of wastewater, and as a result will be rendered harmless.
Is it possible that using polident for dentures may cause damage to the drainage system?
It is the greatest degreaser I have ever used, and I use it in all situations in my home when I need to remove grease, oil, or greasy/oily filth.
When using diluted cleanser, it is customary to dilute it 1:3 with water and to flush off any remaining residue down the toilet.
Is there any danger in permitting this degreaser to enter the septic system if the biodegradable and non-toxic characteristics are indeed true?
My septic tanks were recently drained out the day before yesterday.
My question is if this would have an impact on the septic system because it would give the first holding tank (solids) more time to mix cleaner with trash.
If you’re referring to a toilet seat, any home cleanser or disinfectant should work just as well.
Trizenka, Objective data, such as proper testing and an environmental assessment for dangerous or filthy sewer pipe, will be of the most benefit to you and the resident in this situation.
Septic tanks and sewer lines are often covered with a variety of bacteria, as well as diseases.
During the course of washing and soaking in cold water in the bathtub, these disease germs were unintentionally rinsed down the drain.
When the DNA from millennia of resistant filth and rust was released from the metal objects, it was multiplied tenfold.
She became nauseated and vomited up to her stomach as a result.
This is most likely a top-secret government operation, kept undercover to minimize public outcry.
WARNING: BE CAREFUL.
Will Epson salt mixed with clay cause damage to my septic system?
Hello, we have a grinder pump beside the toilet that you may use.
I subsequently discovered that I was not permitted to flush chemicals down the toilet according to my contract.
Hair products are not harmful to the septic system when used at regular household levels.
Your septic tank should be pumped sooner rather than later; when the tank is pumped, ask your pumper to measure and report back on the scum and sludge levels to see whether they are within typical ranges.
In order to get more technical, you’d need to have the septic effluent examined by a qualified technician or engineer.
I use a hair catcher to ensure that no hair falls into the drain.
Does it make sense to pour Pine Sol down the toilet to avoid causing septic tank or drainage problems?
If you mean if routine domestic usage of ammonia as a cleaning is okay, the answer is yes, as long as you follow the manufacturer’s safety recommendations.
Is it possible to drain a 500ml bottle of ammonia (kleen off) that was left in the bathroom sink?
I want to clean my shower, but I’m not sure if it’s okay to put it in a plastic tub.
Anon: No, not at regular family consumption levels.
Yes, JC, that’s correct.
Is it okay for my wife to take baths with oatmeal powder mixed into her bath salt, or whatever they call it these days?
It is a form of power, not food like I consume. Thanks, Pour the water outdoors in your driveway and let it soak up. I’ve soaked my oven burners with ammonia; where can I dispose of it because I have a septic system? It’s necessary to rinse them off.
Question: is it better to use powdered laundry soap or liquid dishwasher soap?
Do you prefer to use powdered laundry and dishwashing soap over liquid detergent? According to what I’ve heard, this substance will not dissolve and will cause difficulties in pipelines and septic systems. – Anonyme 11/19/2012
Reply:
In answer to your question, I’ve included links to further information regarding appropriate dishwasher and laundry detergents in the preceding post. While powdered deterrents, when applied as directed, should not clog drain pipes, when used in excess (as is common) or if you use bargain brands of detergents that contain clay fillers, the risk of clogging drain pipes and drainfields, as well as the risk of clogging a sewage pump, as discussed above, should be taken into consideration. There are also issues regarding environmental pollution from substances in some goods, which are a source of worry.
Question: powdered cleaners vs liquid cleaners vs septic tank
(On the 19th of November, 2012) Anonymous asked:Do you prefer to use powdered laundry and dishwashing soap instead of liquid detergent? According to what I’ve heard, this substance will not dissolve and will cause difficulties in pipelines and septic systems.
Reply:
Anon, Thank you for submitting your inquiry. I’ve included links to further information regarding appropriate dishwashing and laundry detergents in the preceding post. In general, powdered deterrents, when used properly, should not clog drain piping. However, when used in excess (which is typical) or if you purchase discount brands of detergents that contain clay fillers, the possibility of clogged drain piping and maybe drainfields exists. According to the articles we’ve included, there are further worries concerning environmental pollution caused by certain compounds included in some goods.
Question: will the blue goodie you put in to make your water blue when flashing, kill the bacteria in the septic tank?
Theresa Sweetman may be reached at [email protected] on October 26, 2014. (Theresa) shared her thoughts: Hello and good day. Our home is equipped with a septic tank. What I’d want to know is whether or not the blue stuff you put in to make the water blue while flashing will kill the germs in your septic tank. Thank you very lot. Regards Theresa
Reply:
[email protected] (on October 26, 2014) According to (Theresa) I’d want to greet you. Our house is equipped with a septic tank. I’m simply curious whether the blue stuff you put in to make your water blue when it flashes would kill the germs in your septic tank. Please accept my heartfelt thanks and best wishes Theresa
Question: toilet scrubbing bubbles and spongy pipe clogs
(12th of January, 2015) Anonymous stated that his wife cleaned the toilet with scrubbing bubbles just before he pulled it out to replace the wax seal. A spongy material adhered to the inside walls of the pipes, clogging them up with more sponginess.
Reply:
On the 12th of January in the year 2015, According to Anonymous, “my wife cleaned the toilet with scrubbing bubbles shortly before I pulled it out to replace the wax seal.” A spongy material adhered to the inside walls of the pipes, filling them to capacity.
Is Limeaway safe for my septic tank?
Carmen You make no mention of how much of the substance you are consuming. Yes, when used at regular (and consequently moderate) amounts, like as when washing a sink. Gallons of any chemical should not be dumped into the septic system if the concentration is high enough.
Question: what to use instead of bleach to clean shower mould
(February 21st, 2015) As Linda stated, “I can’t seem to locate anything that genuinely informs me what to use instead of bleach for removing mould from my shower tiles and grout.” Because our grey water is discharged into our Bio Septic System, I have to be careful about what I put into it. I had only recently purchased the property and had not yet installed the system, so there was no information saved for it.
Reply:
Linda Because the right strategy is to remove the mold rather than “kill” it with bleach – which is inefficient and perhaps dangerous in any case – you may use whatever home cleaner you choose to accomplish this. When used at typical levels in a house, these cleansers have no negative impact on the septic system. AtMOLD CLEANUP GUIDE- HOW On GET RID OF MOLD, you’ll find a comprehensive guide to mold cleanup. Continue reading atCHEMICALSCLEANERS INTO THE SEPTIC TANK CAN YOU HELP ME? Alternatively, choose a topic from the closely related articles listed below, or browse the entireARTICLE INDEX.
For further information, visit CHEMICAL STREATMENTS FOR SEPTICS- Do we need to put treatments in the septic tank?
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Got a hot tub? Here’s how to safely (and legally) drain it
This essay was first published in theWinter2016 edition of Cottage Lifemagazine and has been reprinted with permission. Grey water is classed as such in most provinces, which implies that the standards for safe disposal are controlled by either provincial building codes or health laws, depending on the jurisdiction. As a result, before you discard your water, check with your local building authority or public health unit first. In no case should grey water be discharged directly into a lake, and in certain provinces, it is even unlawful to release grey water directly onto your land; it must be channeled through a sewage system instead.
Instead, cease adding chemicals to the tub one week before you want to empty it and leave the lid off for that time period.
By turning off the heater and running the jets for a few hours, you can assist to hasten the process.
As soon as the chlorine or bromine levels have been reduced to a safe level, you can begin pumping the water into your septic system in tiny batches over the course of several days. Cottage Life has more to offer:
Will Toilet Bowl Cleaner Damage a Septic System?
Your septic system’s lifespan can be shortened by anything you pour down the drain, flush down your toilet, or throw in the washing machine. To avoid or reduce the use of toilet bowl cleansers and bleach/chlorine based cleaners, follow these guidelines: On product labels, look for the words chlorine bleach or the chemical sodium hypochlorite. This might result in your septic tank backing up, which could result in costly repairs, contamination of your drinking water, odors, and other problems.
It is customary to use them to whiten surfaces, remove stains, kill bacteria, and disinfect surfaces.
What Does Bleach Do to the Septic System?
Your septic system has a variety of bacteria that are spread throughout the system, which processes the water waste generated by your house. In the event that household chemicals are put into your septic tank, they destroy the living bacteria that is necessary to break down and treat the waste appropriately. Once the chemical or bleach kills the bacteria, it creates “die-off,” which causes the germs to accumulate in the septic tank since there is nowhere else for them to go. Grease, oils, and other solids are then forced out of the tank and into the drain field, resulting in costly repairs to the tank and drain field.
As an alternative to the use of bleach or chlorine-based cleaners, we recommend the use of all-natural biodegradable cleaning solutions, as well as detergents that are low in sudsing, low in phosphates, and biodegradable.
Septic System Do’s:
- You should pump your septic system once or twice a year in order to eliminate particles and sludge. Don’t forget to use a high-quality single-ply toilet paper that degrades swiftly. Conserve as much water as possible. There is a limit to how much liquid your septic tank can contain. Spread out your laundry usage over the course of the week rather than doing it all in one day. Remove and inhibit the growth of trees in the vicinity of the leach field. Run water down drains that are rarely used on a regular basis to prevent gas accumulation.
Septic System Don’ts:
- Do not use toilet tank pills that contain antibacterial agents
- Instead, use a disinfectant. It is not recommended to use excessive amounts of soap and detergent. Anything that does not degrade should not be flushed. For instance, paper towels, sanitary napkins, ‘flushable’ wipes, and cigarette butts are all acceptable alternatives. Do not dispose of rubbish using a garbage disposal. Food particles and grease can block the tank and cause the bacteria to become unbalanced. Do not flush solvents, paints, or insecticides down the toilet or down the drain. Avoid driving or parking on top of your septic system. When a vehicle is loaded, the weight of the vehicle might break pipes or damage the tank.
However, while we make every effort to give up-to-date and accurate information, this content may contain errors or information that is incorrect for your particular circumstance or equipment. The resources available on this website are intended to serve as general information only. Reddi Industries expressly disclaims any and all liability arising out of the use of the information given. If you are attempting to repair or alter plumbing, electrical, or other equipment in your home or company, always study the operating handbook for the equipment first, and only attempt to do so if you are competent to do so.
Septic system and spa chemicals
I was just wondering. I wash out the filters in my huge slop sink in my laudry room every weekend with just plain water. Plus I use this sink to soak my filters in with the filter cleaning solution. Or sometimes I just put them in the dishwasher with out anything but plain water.Obviously all of these chemicals are going down the drain.Are these chemicals having a negative effect on my septic system or are the volumes so small that it has no effect what so ever.Just curious.LoggedThe short answer is no.Im not speaking as an expert on septic systems, but you have to keep in mind we put shampoos, soaps, shaving cream/gels, toothpaste, bleach from toilet bowl cleansers/santizers, dish washing detergent, laundry detergent, lime remover, grease cutting agents, drain clog remover, et al;Your filter cleaning isnt going to contribute significantly to this.But I would recommend not using your dishwasher to clean your filters though.Logged
I would like to politely dissagree with those who have said not to run the filters through the dishwasher. Not all filters are built for this treatment, though some are.I can’t imagine that a machine which can wash/rinse away heavy grease and spoiled food which is stuck onto pots, pans and dishes would have any trouble taking care of a set of spa filters.The machine washes with hot water, and then runs a thorough rinse cycle. You could always run it empty after the filters if you are really concerned. I guess that I’m saying: I just don’t see a lot of grease or old food staying on my dishes, so I can’t imagine hair or other things doing the same.LoggedFormer HotSpring Dealer – Southern Cal.
Particulate matter should be pumped out of the dishwasher along with the dirty water. If it’s not, you have a defective dishwasher. BrewmanLoggedBrewman
The point I was tryng to make is do the spa chemicals kill the live bacteria that makes my septic system work properly?Are the chemicals strong enough when I rinse out the filter’s or the filter cleaning solution strong enough to kill the septic system.When you have a septic system even those little clorox toilet tables that are placed in the toilet tank. Will kill all of the bacteria in the septic tank.But thanks for your reply’sLogged
There were several other responses which have been ‘moderated’ out, so this thread seems a bit disjointed now.I don’t know the answer to the original question, but I would assume that chlorine going into a septic system is going to kill things: good and bad. At the very least, it will change the balance a bit. The chlorine will not stick around long, so I wonder if the normal balance would return soon?I would check with a septic operator or two-I live on a city sewer system, and they have a fit when a pool owner or service guy pumps chlorinated water into the sanitary drains around here.LoggedFormer HotSpring Dealer – Southern Cal.
The chemicals can’t be good for the septic “good bugs”. Since chlorine kills in the tub it will kill in the septic and will most likely linger around longer in a cool, dark enclosed environment.Loggede
;DIf you wash your filters in the wash tub and send the water to the septic tank it may be a good idea to put a box of RidX or other bacteria growing product made for septic tanks down your toilet after you have finished cleaning them.Logged
Is there such a thing as a ‘septic system forum’ anywhere? I’m very intersetd in this question since we are building a home on a septic tank and you can be sure we plan to put a spa in it! (Uh, in the HOUSE, not in the septic tank.)I have no experience with life on a septic system.other than holding tanks which just get pumped out when full.«Last Edit: August 30, 2004, 01:47:46 pm by Chas»LoggedFormer HotSpring Dealer – Southern Cal.
don’t know about a septic forum – but my home is on a septic (uh the home uses a septic it’s not really on it) and am very careful about what goes down the drain. You basically have 2 choices in managing your system – keep it as free from chemicals and non-organic particulars as possible to keep it a living “healthy” system OR have it pumped out frequently.Loggede
don’t know about a septic forum – but my home is on a septic (uh the home uses a septic it’s not really on it) and am very careful about what goes down the drain. You basically have 2 choices in managing your system – keep it as free from chemicals and non-organic particulars as possible to keep it a living “healthy” system OR have it pumped out frequently.Thanks for the tip!LoggedFormer HotSpring Dealer – Southern Cal.
My home is also on septic.My system is also a pump system to a common field about 2000 ft up the street.I get the tank cleaned annually.The $200 cost is cheap insurance, IMO.Logged
Gotta agree w/Oskar on putting the bacteria stuff down the commode.It’s been years but we lived in a house w/septic.I talked to a septic guy when we moved inhe told be to flush a packet down every couple months.He told me that just soap/shampoo/etc. from everyday living would kill the bacteria.Don’t know if that’s true but we did that every 3 months – lived there 5 years without issue and never had to pump out.It might have been rid-x.been too long to remember.came in paper packets about the size of instant oatmeal – 20 or so packets in “a case.”Logged
Beware of septic additives – most are scam that can do anything from nothing to serious damage to your system.Kind of like the ozone of the septic industy. there is no proof that any additive is beneficial to your septic.A “clean” well managed system doesn’t need any additives as we people give it all the goodies it needs to stay healthy with each flush.Also, like a spa you need to “drain” it periodically – how frequently will be determined by how well you manage it.Loggede
Is there such a thing as a ‘septic system forum’ anywhere? I’m very intersetd in this question since we are building a home on a septic tank and you can be sure we plan to put a spa in it! (Uh, in the HOUSE, not in the septic tank.)I have no experience with life on a septic system.other than holding tanks which just get pumped out when full.I can answer this one, the bioligical activity and volume of water in the septic system should be able to handle the occasional cleaning of the filter.draining the spa into the septic would not be a good idea, too much volume at one time. Sending massive amounts of bleach into the septic system would not be a good idea either.Oxidizing chemicals (chlorine bromine and shock) are not desirable, as they will kill the bugs.The microorganisms that reside in the tank are a pretty tough lot, and they will consume most of the organic matter (tp, detergent and soaps) that comes their way.Logged
Using Vitamin C to Neutralize Chlorine in Water Systems
INTRODUCTION The purpose of this report is to summarize a study on using vitamin C to neutralize chlorine in water. The intended audience is sanitary engineers and operators of water and wastewater systems.Operators of seasonal water systems sanitize spring-boxes or wells, storage tanks (figure 1), and distribution lines with a strong chlorine solution. After these operators sanitize the water systems, they must waste the chlorinated water. Chlorine can kill fish and other aquatic organisms. Therefore, operators must neutralize the chlorinated water before discharging the water into lakes or streams. The chlorinated water needs neutralizing if the wasted water goes to a septic system or small wastewater treatment plant, because chlorine can upset the bacterial balance in the system. Even very low levels of chlorine will harm or destroy aquatic organisms and beneficial bacteria. Operators need a permit from their State regulatory agency before discharging any treated or altered water to navigable waters of the United States or into a publicly owned wastewater treatment plant. CURRENT METHODS OF DECHLORINATION Passive Methods There are several passive methods for neutralizing chlorine. Operators may hold chlorinated water in a tank or pond until the chlorine dissipates because air and sunlight will neutralize chlorine over time. Operators may discharge the chlorinated water into soil, a road surface, or ditch, where the chlorine will react positively with organic and inorganic impurities. As long as the wasted water does not enter a lake or stream before the chlorine is neutralized, passive dechlorination (neutralization of chlorine) is preferable to chemical dechlorination.Chemical Methods Chemical methods of dechlorinating water are faster than passive methods. Water system operators may use sulfur compounds to dechlorinate water. However, to properly neutralize chlorinated water, operators need both caution and experience when using sulfur-based chemicals (Hill 2003). Sulfur-based chemicals are oxygen scavengers that will lower the dissolved oxygen in the receiving lake or stream, and some sulfur compounds are hazardous chemicals. At least two studies suggest that chlorinated andsulfonated water (sulfur-based dechlorination) poses a hazard to some sensitive aquatic species (Hall and others 1982; Rein and others 1992).VITAMIN C DECHLORINATION Vitamin C is a newer chemical method for neutralizing chlorine. Two forms of vitamin C, ascorbic acid and sodium ascorbate, will neutralize chlorine. Neither is considered a hazardous chemical. First, vitamin C does not lower the dissolved oxygen as much as sulfur-based chemicals do. Second, vitamin C is not toxic to aquatic life at the levels used for dechlorinating water. Although ascorbic acid is mildly acidic and, in large doses, will lower the pH of the treated water, sodium ascorbate is neutral and will not affect the pH of the treated water or the receiving stream. Both forms of vitamin C are stable, with a shelf life of at least 1 year in a dry form if kept in a cool, dark place. Once it is placed in solution, however, vitamin C degrades in a day or two.Ascorbic Acid One gram of ascorbic acid will neutralize 1 milligram per liter of chlorine per 100 gallons of water. The reaction is very fast. The chemical reaction (Tikkanen and others 2001) of ascorbic acid with chlorine is shown below:C 5 H 5 O 5 CH 2 OH + HOCL → C 5 H 3 O 5 CH 2 OH + HCl + H 2 OAscorbic acid + Hypochlorous acid → Dehydroascorbic acid + Hydrochloric acid + waterApproximately 2.5 parts of ascorbic acid are required for neutralizing 1 part chlorine. Since ascorbic acid is weakly acidic, the pH of the treated water may decrease slightly in low alkaline waters.Sodium Ascorbate Sodium ascorbate will also neutralize chlorine. It is pH neutral and will not change the pH of the treated water. Sodium ascorbate is preferable for neutralizing high concentrations of chlorine. If a large amount of treated water is going to be discharged to a small stream, the pH of the treated water and the stream should be within 0.2 to 0.5 units of the receiving stream.The reaction (Tikkanen and others 2001) of sodium ascorbate with chlorine is shown below:C 5 H 5 O 5 CH 2 ONa + HOCL → C 5 H 3 O 5 CH 2 OH + NaCl + H 2 OSodium ascorbate + Hypochlorous acid → Dehydroascorbic acid + Sodium chloride + waterApproximately 2.8 parts of sodium ascorbate are required to neutralize 1 part chlorine. When vitamin C is oxidized, a weak acid called dehydroascorbic acid forms.Several studies have evaluated the use of ascorbic acid and sodium ascorbate to neutralize low levels of chlorine�less than 2 milligrams per liter. Only one study (Tacoma Water Utility Report) evaluated the use of ascorbic acid to neutralize high levels of chlorine�up to 100 milligrams per liter. The Tacoma, WA, Water Utility Engineer recommends against using ascorbic acid to neutralize high levels of chlorine in large volumes of water because it lowers the pH of the treated water. The Tacoma Water Utility engineer recommends using sodium ascorbate instead.The San Dimas Technology and Development Center project leader set up a small experiment to evaluate water changes during the use of sodium ascorbate or ascorbic acid to neutralize a strong chlorine solution (figure 2). The experiment consisted of:� Making a strong chlorine solution (approximately 50 milligrams per liter chlorine).� Neutralizing the chlorine solution with either ascorbic acid or sodium ascorbate.� Monitoring pH, temperature, dissolved oxygen, total chlorine, and free chlorine after each step.
| Using Vitamin C To Neutralize Chlorine in Water Systems Brenda Land, Sanitary Engineer, Project Leader
|
| Figure2 —Ascorbic acid is used to neutralize chlorine. |
The results are shown in Tables 1 and 2.
| Table 1. Ascorbic acid | |||||
| Ascorbic Acid | pH | Temperature (�C) | Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) | Total Chlorine (mg/L) | Free Chlorine (mg/L) |
| 5 gal tap water | 7.6 | 22.3 | 8.3 | 0.75 | 0.05 |
| +15 mL -6% sodium chloride | 8.0 | 21.7 | 9.7 | 66.6 | 47.8 |
| +2.5 g ascorbic acid | 6.2 | 21.1 | 5.7 | 0.00 | 0.02 |
| Table2.Sodium ascorbate | |||||
| Sodium Ascorbate | pH | Temperature (�C) | Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) | Total Chlorine (mg/L) | Free Chlorine (mg/L) |
| 5 gal tap water | 7.6 | 22. 7 | 9.5 | 0.7 9 | 0.05 |
| +15 mL -6% sodium chloride | 8. 1 | 21.7 | 9. 1 | 52.6 | 47. 6 |
| +2.5 gsodium ascorbate | 7.0 | 21.1 | 6.7 | 0.0 2 | 0.0 0 |
| Test equipment | |
| pH | Hach EC10 pH meter with temperature compensation |
| Dissolved Oxygen | DR/890 Colorimeter with Accuvac ampoules |
| Chlorine | DR/890 Colorimeter, DPD method |
| (Dilution used for chlorine level over 5 milligrams per liter) |
According to the data in Tables 1 and 2, both ascorbic acid and sodium ascorbate reduced the dissolved oxygen content of the treated water when used at this dosage. The pH level was likewise altered by sodium ascorbate, however not to the same extent as it was by ascorbic acid. As part of the project, the project manager installed a submersible pump and added mosquito fish Gambusia affinis to an aquarium that had been treated with sodium ascorbate in order to increase dissolved oxygen levels.
Aquaculture and aquarium enthusiasts utilize vitamin C in water to keep fish healthy, which is beneficial to both. It is possible to utilize concentrations of vitamin C as high as 50 milligrams per liter to cure wounds in aquarium and farm-raised fish.
| Figure3—Gambusia affinis swim in fish tank treated with vitamin C. |
CONCLUSION In comparison to sulfur-based dechlorination agents, vitamin C is more effective in neutralizing chlorine and is safer to handle. Because the sodium ascorbate form of vitamin C is less acidic than the ascorbic acid form, it has a smaller impact on pH. When used to neutralize a strong chlorine solution, both forms of vitamin C will cause a modest decrease in the amount of dissolved oxygen in the water being treated. If passive dechlorination is not an option, we recommend taking a vitamin C supplement instead.
- Environmental Protection Agency.
- The Environmental Protection Agency of the United States is based in Washington, DC.
- 15, no.
- 573-78, 1992.
- R., Graves, W.C., and Margery, S.L.
- Environmental Science and Technology, vol.
- 5, pp.
Hill, M., et al.
Vitamin C is used in dechlorination.
The authors (D.A.
Jamesson, and R.A.
Water Environment Federation, Alexandria, Virginia, pp.
Water Environment Federation.
H., Leong, L.Y.C., and Ganesh, R.
Tikkanen, M.W., Schroeter, J.
Manual for the Disposal of Chlorinated Water (Guidelines for Disposal of Chlorinated Water).
The American Water Works Association is based in Denver, Colorado.
219FAX: 909-592-2309E-mail: [email protected] It is intended for personnel of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service, its contractors, and cooperating Federal and State agencies to use the information included in this paper for guidance.
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Caring for Your Septic System
You wouldn’t ignore routine maintenance on a high-priced automobile. You should also not neglect the maintenance of your septic system. It is possible to spend as much as $20,000 to replace a broken septic system; thus, you have a strong incentive to keep your system in good working order. Septic systems provide the same functions as municipal treatment facilities, but on a smaller scale, and are thus less expensive. Instead of employing experts and specialists to ensure that everything runs properly, you, the homeowner, are responsible for it all.
Protect the Parts
Take a look at the records that came with your home to find out where all of the components of your system are placed so that you or your guests don’t accidentally damage them. Never drive across a drainfield or a ditch. Beyond the possibility of a pipe cracking, the weight of a car compacts the soil, making it less absorbent and less able to absorb water. Maintain a safe distance between plants and trees and the septic tank and the drainfield. Their roots can slither into pipes and cause them to become clogged.
Pump Periodically
With a normal system, you may arrange a pump truck to come out on a regular basis (typically every three to five years). By being cautious about what goes down your drains, you may be able to extend the time between service calls. Consult with your pumper for guidance. If you have a maintenance contract (which may be necessary with some systems), you should allow the technician to inform you when pumping is required for your system. Pumping costs $200 to $400, depending on how quickly the lid can be opened.
When the tank is completely empty, have it examined for leaks and have them repaired as soon as possible.
If they are missing or in poor condition, they should be replaced.
Control What Goes In
Perhaps you’ve heard that some materials are beneficial to septic systems while others are detrimental. Here’s the truth about what’s good and terrible to flush down the toilet and what shouldn’t be. Too much water, from any source, can cause your system to become overloaded. Roof water should be diverted away from the drainfield using gutters. Install water-saving toilets and appliances, or at the very least, repair toilet leaks and stagger laundry loads to conserve water. As a precaution, advise guests to refrain from taking long showers or turning on the faucets at full blast while they are at your home.
- Utilize your trash disposal exclusively to clear up the fine scraps that have accumulated in your drain strainer if you have one.
- In a septic tank, fats decompose and become scum.
- Consider creating a compost bin for food waste as well.
- However, even a small amount of drain cleaning might be harmful.
- In rare instances, the salty output produced by water softeners can cause significant damage to a septic system.
- If your health department does not allow it, contact your local health department.
- Alternatively, a salt-free water softener (costing around $1,000 or more) can be installed.
Instead, use the time to clean the tank. Instead, pump on a regular basis. Others have negative consequences, such as releasing the scum in the tank, which causes it to block the drainfield. Some additives are ineffective, while others have negative impacts.
Other Inspections
During the wet season, take a walk through your drainfield. If you smell sewage or notice that grass is growing particularly quickly and lushly in one location, it’s possible that your drainfield is clogged. Inquire with a septic repair firm for assistance. It is recommended that you have a professional examination (costing around $100) performed at least once a year if you have an alternative system with mechanical parts, filter screens, pumps, or other components that can go out of alignment.
If you’re looking for further information, see Should You Repair or Replace Your Septic System?
Amazon.com: Customer Questions & Answers
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|File a report of abuse During their growth in your septic system, the naturally occurring microorganisms produce their own enzymes, which are more than sufficient for breaking down the contents of your septic system.
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