How To Clean Grease From Septic Tank? (TOP 5 Tips)

Run hot water down the drain and into the sewer line to slightly loosen the grease. Pour the enzyme solution into the sewer line. Enzymes are natural living bacteria colonies that eat grease. Once introduced into your sewer system, they will continue to reproduce and grow.

What dissolves grease in a septic system?

Green Gobbler Enzyme Drain Cleaner degrades fats, oils, greases, starches, proteins, cellulose, sludge, and other food waste. Enzyme Drain Cleaner reduces the frequency of costly septic tank pump outs when used regularly. Increases the efficacy of grease traps by allowing bacteria to work more effectively.

Does grease hurt a septic system?

It can cause serious damage to your septic system. Grease. Clogged pipes may lead to your septic system backing up and, in turn, cause serious damage to it. Simply pour all grease in a can to solidify and then it throw away.

How do you dissolve grease in a drain?

You can also use salt and baking soda to dissolve a grease clog. Pour ½ cup coarse salt and ½ cup baking soda into the drain, followed by about six cups of boiling hot water. Let the mixture sit for at least eight hours and then flush with water from the tap.

What causes grease to build up in a septic tank?

The main reason FOG buildup occurs in a septic tank is because you are in the habit of disposing of cooking oil or grease in your home’s plumbing drain system. When the scum layer becomes too thick, it will begin to push down on the liquid waste layer, which is where the exit drains are located.

Where is the grease trap on a septic tank?

So, if grease traps are vital for commercial establishments, what about grease traps for residential septic systems? Placed ahead of the kitchen sink(s) and in front of the septic tank, they could be effective at prolonging the life of households with septic systems that see high levels of FOG.

How do I get rid of sludge in my sewer line?

Vinegar and Baking Soda Mix 1/3 of a cup of vinegar with 1/3 of a cup of baking soda and pour the fizzy mixture into the clogged sewer drain immediately. If you don’t know how to unclog main sewer line, take advantage of vinegar to eliminate the grime, grease, and hair in the pipe.

How do I keep my septic tank from getting grease?

Preventing grease and fat from entering your system in the first place is your best bet for keeping your residential septic system running clean and clear. Dump all cooking oil and grease from your kitchen into empty food cans and dispose of it with your regular household trash.

Can you put bacon grease in a septic system?

3. Keep kitchen grease, such as bacon fat and deep fryer oil, out of your septic system. It is not broken down easily by your system, can clog your drain field, and cannot be dissolved by any readily available solvent that is legal to introduce to groundwater.

Can you put cooking oil in a septic tank?

It’s important to remember that you should never dispose of used cooking oil by pouring it down the drain or by putting it into a septic system. The oil can clog up the pipes and can even clog or damage your kitchen’s connection to the city’s sewer mains.

Does vinegar dissolve grease?

Greasy Stovetop Vinegar’s acidity helps cut through grease easily. Spray some vinegar and water mix onto a splattered stovetop, let it sit for 10 minutes, and then scrub down with soapy water. It should wipe right off. If not, leave it to sit a bit longer.

How do you degrease a sewer line?

Pour a cup of washing soda down the drain and allow it to sit. Washing soda can be found in the laundry sections of large retailers. This will break up clogs and attack grease. Washing soda is more caustic than baking soda and, when used on a monthly basis, it will keep the sewer line running clear.

What’s the best drain cleaner for grease?

Here are the best drain cleaners:

  • Best for hair clogs: Whink Hair Clog Blaster.
  • Best for grease clogs: Green Gobbler Drain Clog Dissolver.
  • Best non-chemical: CLR Power Plumber.
  • Best preventative: CLR Build-Up Remover.
  • Best hair clog preventer: TubShroom Strainer and Hair Catcher.

How to Clean Grease From a Septic Tank

Image courtesy of mtreasure/iStock/GettyImages.com

In This Article

  • The Removal of FOG from Septic Tanks and the Proper Disposal of FOG are all topics covered in this course.

Sewage treatment systems are a very vital part of your property and of your house. In order to have a fully operating septic system, it is critical to properly care for and maintain the tank and plumbing lines. FOG (fat, oil, and grease) buildup in your septic tank may have a significant impact on its function and, over time, may prohibit it from effectively breaking down solid waste.

Grease Buildup in a Septic Tank

Because you are in the habit of disposing of cooking oil or grease in your home’s plumbing drain system, FOG accumulation in an aseptic tank is the most common reason for this occurrence. Cooking garbage may appear to be the most convenient method of disposal, but what you may not understand is that once it settles in your septic tank, it will harden, forming a barrier on top of the waste already in the tank. It is common for your septic tank to have a FOG layer present. This is referred to as the scum layer in your septic tank, and it includes fats and oils.

The scum layer is only a problem if it grows so thick that it interferes with the proper operation of your septic system, which is rare.

When the scum layer grows excessively thick, it will begin to press down on the liquid waste layer, which is where the exit drains are located, causing the liquid waste layer to collapse.

FOG Removal From a Septic Tank

To ensure that your tank remains in good working order, have it pumped on a regular basis by a professional sewage removal firm. The business will remove all of the trash and scum accumulation from your tank, leaving you with a completely clean and new one. Waiting too long to have the tank emptied might result in foul gas entering the leach field, which may need the excavation of your complete sewage system in order to repair clogged pipes. If you want to break down any oil and grease accumulation, do not flush harsh chemicals that promise to break down scum down the toilet or down the drain.

If you use chemical additives, you will be able to repair the problem temporarily, but you will be generating worse difficulties in the long run.

Rather than just pouring cooking oil or grease down the drain, the most effective approach of preventing FOG accumulation in your septic tank is to properly dispose of any cooking oil or grease.

Once the bottle is completely empty, you can dispose of it in your garbage can.

In the event that you solely prepare plant-based dishes, you can dispose of your cooking oil in your own compost pile.

What will dissolve grease in a septic tank?

The Best Way to Remove Grease from a Septic Tank

  • Drain the contents of your septic tank. As a result, this is the most efficient method of removing everything and starting with an efficient septic system that is free of undesired grease and sludge
  • Install agreasetrap, also known as agreaseinterceptor, on your computer. 1 cup of a commercial acid-based drain cleaner should be poured down the kitchen sink

The use of concentrated liquid bacterial enzymes breaks down grease, paper, and fat oil in drain lines (septic tanks), grease traps (RV boat tanks), and sewer lines (drain lines). More! Controls the odors from the sewer! Also, what is the source of the grease accumulation in the septic tank? If this layer grows too thick, the wastewater will not be able to drain from the septic tank and proceed on to the leach field for the final step of processing before being released back into the environment.

  1. Apart from that, is grease harmful to the septic system?
  2. It will not decompose in the same manner that water and garbage will.
  3. Backing up of your septic system due to clogged pipes can cause major harm to your system and warrants immediate attention.
  4. Make use of a pipe cleaner or a snake to clean your pipes.
  1. Combine one pound of powder detergent and three gallons of boiling water in a large mixing bowl. Keeping the container close to the drain and pouring carefully will help to avoid scorching your hands
  2. Drain openers made from baking soda and vinegar are also helpful. If you have a grease blockage, you may also use salt and baking soda to dissolve it.

How to Degrease a Sewer Line

Having to degrease a sewage pipe might be a difficult undertaking. Clogged sewage lines are best handled by a trained expert who has access to specialized line cleaning equipment. A grease-removing head will be used to snake the line, and your sewage line will be free to flow once more. You are responsible for keeping the line grease-free thereafter, unless you want to be saddled with an ongoing plumbing expense for snaking your line. A simple method exists for degreasing your sewage line and keeping it clear of grease without the need to hire a professional.

Using Enzymes

  1. Access your sewage line from the most logical location possible. A big access point, such as a toilet or a basement drain, will work best for connecting to the sewage line because it will accommodate more traffic. In a bucket, combine the ingredients for an enzyme drain cleaning. Warm water should be used for the mixture. Each product manufacturer may specify a certain amount of water that must be added to the product in order for it to be as effective as possible
  2. Thus, carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Hot water should be sent down the drain and into the sewage line to release the oil a little bit. The enzyme solution should be poured into the sewage pipe. Enzymes are naturally occurring, live bacterium colonies that consume fatty acids. They will continue to breed and expand once they have been introduced into your sewer system. Repeat this method once a day for the first week, and then once a month after that to maintain the results. Keep your sewer pipes fully open and degreased by doing routine maintenance on a consistent basis.

Other Eco-Friendly Sewer Line Degreasing Methods

  1. Pour baking soda down your drain once a month for best results. As a mild caustic, baking soda will dissolve grease particles that have been attached to the side of your sewage pipe. Baking soda and white vinegar are combined to create a frothy sewage line cleaning. It is the bubbles that will aid in dislodging tough regions of grease accumulation and allowing the baking soda to function more effectively. Pour a cup of washing soda down the drain and let it sit for a few minutes before flushing. Washing soda may be purchased in the laundry areas of most big supermarkets and grocery stores. This will help to clear obstructions and remove oil from the system. Washing soda is more caustic than baking soda, and when used on a monthly basis, it will help to maintain the sewage system clear of obstructions.

Things You Will Need

  • A bucket of baking soda, white vinegar, and washing soda are all needed, as is an enzyme sewer cleaner.

Tip

Enzymes require time in order to function properly. Clogs will need to be cleared out first, which will need the use of a snake to do so. Before enzymes can be placed into a clogged sewage line, it is necessary to have the pipe properly snaked. A monthly enzyme maintenance schedule will then be implemented to ensure that the pipes remain open and free of obstructions. All enzymes are completely natural and useful to the sewage system’s operation. They do not contain any chemicals and are non-toxic.

It is possible to purchase enzyme products and enzyme formulations online as well as at hardware and health food stores.

Warning

  1. When using baking soda or washing soda, never use a professional drain cleaner in conjunction with them. The chemical features of each will react negatively with one another when combined. If you use washing soda on a regular basis, it will degrade PVC drain pipes. It is acceptable to use as preventative maintenance once a month, but if you use it every day, the PVC pipes will steadily deteriorate to the point where they will break. When handling washing soda, always use rubber gloves to protect your hands.

Amazon.com: Green Gobbler ENZYMES for Grease Trap & Sewer – Controls Foul Odors & Breaks Down Grease, Paper, Fat & Oil in Sewer Lines, Septic Tanks & Grease Traps (1 Gallon) : Health & Household

a rating of one out of five stars DO NOT PURCHASE UNTIL YOU HAVE READ THE ENTIRE REPORT, AND THEN ONLY AT YOUR OWN RISK On June 7, 2021, a review will be conducted in the United States. DO NOT MAKE A PURCHASE! Make a phone call to a plumber! Draino is a great tool! Anything besides using this things should be done! I’ve purchased this product in the past and it has worked wonders on my bathroom sink.

Anything larger than this is not suitable for this product! I’m waiting to hear back from the plumber to find out how many thousands of dollars it will cost to remedy this. I’ll post an update after everything has been resolved.

Top reviews from the United States

On May 22, 2020, a review will be conducted in the United States. 128 fl oz. in size (Pack of 1) Purchase that has been verified So, one day, out of nowhere, I discover a drain fly in my kitchen. Then there’s another one. One can be found in my bathroom. It appeared out of nowhere. I’d never had them before in the two years I’d been in this apartment, and I’d never had them in any prior apartments, so I didn’t have a tried-and-true solution to try, and I couldn’t tell you where they were coming from or why they were there.

  1. Despite the fact that I was still doubtful of everything, I decided to give it a go based on the numerous excellent reviews, and IT WORKED.
  2. In the meanwhile, and even a week before I was really going to use it, I just poured many buckets of bleach down each drain, reasoning that bleach kills and cleans all kinds of things.
  3. (Note: Do not combine bleach with other home chemicals; exercise caution when doing so.) Then I placed little teacups filled with apple cider vinegar and a drop of soap next to my garbage disposal and in the center of my bathroom to act as deodorizers.
  4. Neither the toilet nor the bathroom sink appeared to be a source of the noises.
  5. So that’s how you catch the ones that venture out on their own.
  6. Probably more than was intended, but it’s still there.
  7. It completed the task.
See also:  What Type Of Septic Tank Did They Use 26 Years Ago? (Question)

Despite the fact that I own a gallon of Green Gobbler Fruit Fly Gel, I have yet to use it.

This is something I would buy again.

(Pack of One) 128 Fl Oz Size: 128 Fl Oz (Pack of One) Verified Purchase I was a little hesitant about getting a septic treatment and drain cleaning from a company I was unfamiliar with, but this product is well worth the money.

I used around two-thirds of the bottle in total.

In addition, we haven’t neglected our septic system in the least; we literally just snaked and totally emptied the system three months ago!

Size: 128 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)Verified PurchaseReviewed in the United States on August 24, 2018Size: 128 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)Reviewed in the United Kingdom on August 24, 2018 After purchasing an ancient farm, we discovered that it had a lot of grease in the drains, which the plumber informed us about.

  1. When I inquired about obtaining a degreaser, he responded that we may experiment.
  2. I have no doubt that this product got to work straight away and that it has most likely removed the oil from the surface.
  3. So far, everything is going well.
  4. Verified Purchase Size: 128 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)Verified Purchase Early Reviewers Will Receive Bonuses (Can you tell me what this is?) First and foremost, the solution smells incredibly fresh and effectively removes any odors from your drain.
  5. After three usage, my drain is significantly improved!
  6. I got another bottle because it is also excellent for pipe maintenance.
  7. Verified Purchase Size: 128 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)Verified Purchase My bathroom had a really weird smell for several months, and no matter how frequently I cleaned it, the stench would not go away.

I’m a little embarrassed by how long it took me to understand that the scent was not coming from the toilet or any hidden food, but rather from my own sink!

In just four weeks, I’ve been pouring a few ounces once a week and the stench is absolutely gone, and it was already significantly improved from the very first application.

ADD TO CART NOW BY CLICKING HERE On November 11, 2018, a review was conducted in the United States.

We recently purchased a home that had a septic tank.

The first time I did it, I dumped around 2-4 ounces down the drain and let it sit over night.

The odor is no longer present.

The product was reviewed in the United States on December 15, 2018.

It’s been about a week, and everything is going fine so far.

So far, they are more effective.

I’m looking forward to testing the other things I purchased in the near future.

It was quite haphazardly packaged, and the gallon jug tore through half of the box. Fortunately, everything was present. Size: 128 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)Verified PurchaseReviewed in the United States on February 22, 2019Size: 128 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) It was a complete success! I would strongly suggest it.

Top reviews from other countries

4.0 stars out of 5 for this product Although effective, the fragrance is really strong. On April 8, 2020, the Canadian government will review the document. 128 fl oz. in size (Pack of 1) Purchase that has been verified The aroma of the Green Gobbler is really strong. Although not unpleasant, it is potent. This may be a problem if you or a member of your household is allergic to certain odors. For several days, our main kitchen sink had been partially blocked and smelt musty. I poured the Green Gobbler down the drain into the sink.

  • However, we could still smell the Green Gobbler in our kitchen many hours after we had re-started using the sink and pouring water down it the following morning, which was a relief.
  • This was a week ago, and the drain is still working perfectly.
  • However, in terms of efficiency, so far, so good!
  • Performs the duties as stated.
  • 128 fl oz.
  • When dealing with clogged pipes, the only problem is that you have to repeat the process every week or so.
  • Draino, for example, is far more difficult to use.

I would urge that if it is going down a major pipe that you make sure no one else is using water for the rest of the night, therefore it is preferable to pour it down before bed.

There’s a little aroma, but it’s not irritating.

On January 15, 2022, a review will be conducted in Canada.

in size (Pack of 1) Purchase that has been verified When I moved into my apartment nearly three years ago, I discovered a foul odor emanating from the kitchen sink’s drainage pipes.

With no success, I attempted to flush a gallon of bleach down the bathroom sink drain.

There is still nothing.

I’m not sure if the enzymes are no longer alive, but it had no effect whatsoever.

5.0 stars out of 5 for this product Very Impressed – It appears to have resolved my issue completely.

128 fl oz.

I treated all of the drains in the basement, and now, about a week and a half later, everything is back to normal, knock on wood.

Now it only zaps one or two per day, and the number is becoming less every day.

Who would have thought it?

128 fl oz.

At the very least, it didn’t smell foul.

The realization of a long-haired hippy freak’s fantasy! I would only change one thing about this trip: I would get the one for hair clogs to use in the bathroom instead of the one for hair dries.

Septic System Dangers: Grease and Fat

Grease and fat pose a threat to the septic system. Grease and fat are two of the worst things that you can send down your drains and into your septic system because they attract bacteria. A residential septic system is intended to manage the normal sewage and household waste generated in a home or apartment. How much garbage can be managed successfully and efficiently depends on the number of people who live in your home, the quantity of water that is used, and the products and chemicals that are flushed down your drains, among other factors.

  1. Using a complete preventive maintenance program, homeowners can keep track of how much grease is accumulating in their heating and air conditioning system.
  2. Grease and fat accumulate in your septic system in several ways.
  3. The bottom layer is referred to as “sludge,” and it is made up of sewage waste that has not yet been broken down by the system as it should.
  4. The middle layer is composed primarily of liquids.
  5. When oil and fat are introduced into your home septic system, they end up in this section of the system.
  6. If this layer grows too thick, the wastewater will be unable to drain from the septic tank and proceed on to the leach field for the last step of treatment in the sewage treatment system.
  7. Following their passage through these pipes, grease and fat will enter the leach field, clogging up the drain holes and pipelines that lead to the leach field on their route.

In an ideal situation, it should be removed before it becomes too thick and reaches the leach field.

It is strongly suggested that you hire a professional septic system servicing firm to take care of this for you instead.

Never use any chemical additions in your septic system that claim to break down or remove grease, as this will harm the system.

If you want to maintain your home septic system operating clean and clear, your best chance is to prevent oil and fat from entering it in the first place.

Enlisting the help of a professional service provider and enrolling in an ongoing preventative maintenance program can also help to reduce the likelihood of grease and fat build-up occurring at all in the first place.

Household septic systems are intended to manage an average volume and kind of grease and fat in the tank.

In addition to the concerns that might arise as a result of grease and fat reaching the leach field, the following issues and damage can occur:

  • Grain buildup in your home’s pipes is similar to the health concerns about oil and fat in the human body. Grain may solidify inside of your home’s pipes, causing a blockage even before it reaches the septic system. This is similar to what happens when you have an obstruction in your heart: the grease makes it more difficult for the water to flow out of your home and into your domestic septic system. Despite the fact that a clog in this location will not cause harm to the septic tank at this time, it will cause the pipes to backup on a regular basis. In the event that you make extensive use of grease and oil in your house, you should consider installing a grease trap to capture some of the grease before it reaches your pipes or septic system. Solids are not properly broken down, and they are not eliminated from the tank and into the leach field as is required by design. But, a modest amount of grease, oil, or fat will not hinder the natural breakdown process inside the home septic system
  • However, an excessive amount might create a great deal of trouble. Solids from other sources in the tank, such as normal household trash and toilet paper, can form bonds with the grease and fat, making it more difficult for it to breakdown and biodegrade. A hard shell of grease can form in a tank, preventing wastewater and other elements contained within the tank from being able to escape the system effectively.

Maintaining Your Residential Septic System is Important. To avoid problems with grease and fat, as well as other problems that can lead to septic system failure, it is important to get your system tested on a regular basis. A preventative maintenance program administered by a competent septic system repair and inspection firm is essential to ensuring that the system operates correctly. In addition to Massachusetts Title V inspections and Rhode Island Town inspections, All-Clear SepticWastewater provides preventive maintenance program services, repairs, assessments, and more to clients throughout Southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

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3 Tips for Preventing Clogs in Your Sewer Line and Septic System

A clogged drain will inevitably occur from time to time, especially if you have children who aren’t careful about what they pour down the sink or flush down the toilet. When you see that your septic system is clogging up on a regular basis, it’s time to examine your septic system’s maintenance procedures to determine what is causing the problem. Clogged drains and sewage backups may be prevented by performing frequent tank cleaning and performing proper maintenance on your equipment and systems.

Put Only Toilet Paper in the Toilet

Toilet paper disintegrates far more quickly than other types of paper goods. Some varieties of paper towels are so strong that they are virtually as strong as cloth in some situations. They take a long time to disintegrate, and during that time, the paper continues to accumulate, eventually causing a blockage. If you flush paper towels or wet wipes down the toilet on a regular basis, your sewage drain is at greater risk of clogging, especially if there are any roots in the line that might trap the paper.

The accumulation of waste causes you to empty the tank more frequently than you would if you disposed of face tissues, wet wipes, and paper towels in the garbage rather than in the toilet.

Keep Grease out of the Sink Drain

Grease is detrimental to the health of your drains and septic tank. When grease is warm, it seems to be a liquid, but as soon as it is allowed to cool and solidify in your drain, it becomes sticky and difficult to remove. As it clings to the edges of your drain, it collects additional material that floats by, eventually causing a blockage. It’s rare that hot water from the faucet is sufficient to melt and harm an obstruction made of oil and fat. It’s possible to try boiling some water on the stove and pouring it down your drain to see if that helps to dissolve the clog, but the most effective way to remove grease buildup from drains is to hire a plumber who will blast it away with a powerful jet of water that scrubs the sides of the drain completely clean.

Keeping grease out of your drain is even more critical if your home is equipped with a septic tank. Grease floats in the tank, and when a large amount of grease accumulates, it can pour into the drain field, blocking the pipes and causing damage that could be costly to fix in the future.

Call for Help When Your Drains Become Slow

The first sign of a blockage in the sewage line or a full tank is when the drains in your home take an unusually long time to empty themselves. Calling professional drain cleaning or tank pumping as soon as you observe sluggish drains is preferable to waiting for more significant problems to manifest themselves. If only the kitchen sink is sluggish, it is possible that the cause is a blockage in the sink drainage system. When all of the drains and the toilet are running slowly, this is an indication of a sewer blockage that must be addressed immediately.

  • Having a problem with roots will necessitate the need to have the drain snaked out every time they reappear, otherwise the roots might cause the pipe to burst.
  • A plumber can check the level of sludge in the tank to determine whether or not the tank needs to be pumped.
  • In most cases, tree roots can be removed with a sewer snake, but in certain cases, a strong hydro-jet is required to completely clear the line of debris.
  • Bush can provide professional examination of any drain blockage, sluggish drains, or overflowing septic tank, as well as timely treatment to restore your drains to working order.
See also:  How Much Does It Cost To Pump Septic Tank In Indianapolis? (Correct answer)

Fat, oil and grease are really bad for your plumbing and septic system

Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG) come from cooking oil, lard, meat fats, salad dressing, mayonnaise, gravy, margarine, butter, sour dressing, etc. If poured down the drain, FOG can accumulate in the plumbing and cause all manner of problems. As FOG builds up in plumbing, it interferes with the flow in the plumbing which can result in the backup of untreated wastewater. Manholes that are clogged up with FOG can overflow into yards, parks, storm drains and streets which will lead to contamination of surface and groundwater.

How FOG affects the septic system

Septic systems are intended to break down just tissue and waste; they are not intended to break down anything else. This is one of the primary reasons why fat, oil, and grease (FOG) should be kept out of the food supply chain. Most of the time, FOGs are not degraded by the bacteria in the septic tank, but rather float to the top of it and create the scum layer. The scum will climb to the outlet and begin to force some of the FOG out of the tank if the scum builds up too much in the tank. It is extremely damaging to the aerobic stage of wastewater treatment, which is found in the leach field, when it is present.

  • Scum is also associated with the gases that are discharged into the system, since some of the sludge particles may be transported up into the scum layer by the gas bubbles as they rise through the system.
  • Having airspace enables vegetative molds to speed the entrapment of rising sludge particles, resulting in the formation of a leathery scum layer that is difficult to remove by pumping.
  • The wastewater must be allowed to sit in the septic tank for a period of time in order for the suspended particles to settle into the sludge layer and the FOG to float in the scum layer.
  • However, if the scum layer becomes too thick, the amount of time that wastewater may be retained in the septic tank is significantly reduced.

As a result, wastewater will be rushed out of the tank before it has had a chance to settle. As a result, if this wastewater ends up reaching the soil before it has been thoroughly cleaned, the pathogens contained within it may cause pollution.

Measuring the scum depth

In addition to following the manufacturer’s suggested septic tank cleaning interval, you should evaluate the depth of your scum on a regular basis to verify that it hasn’t gotten too thick. Actually, the depth of the scum is extremely essential information since it may help you determine how healthy your system is and whether or not it is being pumped on a regular basis as it should be. The following principles will assist you in determining when you should plan the pumping of the tank depending on the measurements of scum depth in the tank.

  1. Whenever the overall depth of the scum and sludge layer is equal to one-third of the total depth of the entire tank, it is recommended that you pump the septic tank.
  2. To determine the depth of the scum, place a 3-inch piece of wood to the end of a long stick and measure it.
  3. Make a slow, gentle movement across the layer until you notice a difference in resistance.
  4. When you reach the bottom, place a marker at the top of the septic tank’s opening and note the length of your measuring stick from there.
  5. The distance between the two marks you create should be the same as the distance between the bottom of the scum layer and the bottom of the output baffle (see illustration below).

Grease traps

Restaurants generate a significant amount of grease in their kitchens, which can result in a significant number of clogs and other associated concerns. Thousands of dollars are spent yearly by restaurants and other food facilities to deal with plumbing difficulties that are directly connected to FOG, according to industry estimates. The installation of grease traps in all restaurants is mandated by the government as one of the techniques for combating this problem. Grease traps are designed to catch grease before it exits the kitchen and are often positioned directly below the sink in the kitchen or on the exterior of the kitchen.

In-kitchen passive grease trap

As wastewater from the kitchen passes through the unit, these interceptors capture the grease that rises to the top of a tiny baffled tank where it is collected. The grease that has accumulated in passive grease traps in the kitchen will have to be physically cleared from the area. As a result, they should be cleaned on a regular basis (daily or weekly depending on their size and amount of FOG generated).

If they are not cleaned on a regular basis, FOG will build up in the traps and be driven into the septic system. Clean and well-maintained FOG removal systems may remove up to 95% of the FOG from the air.

Pre-cast in-ground concrete grease traps

Pre-cast concrete grease traps function in the same way as in-kitchen interceptors, with the exception that they operate on a much larger scale. Pre-cast in-ground grease traps with capacities ranging from 750 to 2000 gallons are the most prevalent. As a result of their size, they are capable of withstanding more FOG, but this also means that they are more expensive to acquire and install. These grease traps are great for large restaurants and are often cleaned on a regular basis by grease pumping firms.

Automatic grease trap

The primary distinction between automated grease traps and the other two types of traps is that automatic grease traps are meant to automatically remove FOG on a timetable that is specified. Because of the automated cleaning mechanism, these traps are quite effective. They are successful at removing at least 98 percent of the FOG present in the wastewater. Because they have the characteristic of automatically eliminating FOG, they are often smaller in size and may thus be readily accommodated in the kitchen space available.

Conclusion

It is not recommended to dump oil or grease down the sink. When cleaning the dishes, scrape away any fat and oil from the plates before starting to wash them. Instead of putting cooled leftover fats down the drain, you may place them in a plastic container and keep them in the freezer until they are ready to be disposed of. Once the container is completely filled, close the lid and throw it away in the garbage.

Enzymes help cut through fats, oils and greases in septic tank, drain line and sewer applications

Bio – Products, PackagingMarketing ExpertsAll Rights Reserved – Lenzyme – 2010 – 2020Fats, oils and greases, collectively they are called FOG. To wastewater treatment professionals, they usually mean trouble. There are many misconceptions in the marketplace about methods and products for dealing with FOG. A better understanding of biological treatment versus chemical treatment can help you make wise decisions on behalf of your customers and your business. The main reason FOG is troublesome is that it is not water-soluble, it eventually separates from water. Grease is lighter than water, so it floats to the top. If not treated, grease molecules combine to form a hard grease layer. Or, worse yet, the grease combines with other materials such as soap residue, paper, and solids. When this happens in a septic tank, a very hard crust can form on the surface of the water in the tank. If left untreated it could flow out to the drainfield and cause drainfield backups. In a plumbing system, grease traps, drain lines, and sewers can become clogged. Usually, an overload of FOG is what causes stoppages in flow.Understanding Enzymes:Enzymes are one kind of remedy for FOG problems. An enzyme is a catalyst (something that makes a chemical reaction go faster). They are not living cells like bacteria. Instead, they are a special kind of protein, and in a way, they behave like energy. Consider a cornfield. As corn grows into a mature plant, it produces corn oil and sugars. It does this by taking carbon dioxide from the air and water from the soil, then putting them together with the help of the sun’s energy, in a complex process called photosynthesis. The sugars and oil become food products, which people consume almost daily. Eventually, the materials end up in the septic tank. How does nature convert the sugar and oil back into carbon dioxide and water? With enzymes. The reverse biological process happens with the enzymes providing impetus. Enzymes are not consumed in chemical reactions, they simply help the reactions along. For example, the starch digesting enzyme amylase, from barley malt, is used in the fermentation of beer. The fermentation process lasts for days, and the enzyme is active throughout. At the same time, an enzyme is slowly depleted as the reactions proceed, just as a battery in a flashlight wears down each time the switch is turned on. Batteries come in many sizes and strengths, and the same is true of enzymes. Some last just minutes, some last for days.Enzymes help cut through fats, oils and greases in septic tank, drain line and sewer applicationsBy Glenn GajeskiPublished in the “Pumper Magazine” – AprilBut as the temperature falls farther down the line, the grease molecules come back together. The grease has not been reduced only repositioned. Many things can cause grease to break apart. Chemical drain openers cause reactions that can increase the temperature. Other chemicals, called solvents and surfactants, can actually dissolve grease molecules. But once these chemicals wear off, or the temperature drops, the grease molecules combine again.The Anatomy of Grease:Enzymes can work effectively on grease. To see how, it helps to understand how grease molecules are put together. Fats, oils, and grease are in the group of chemical substances called lipids or triglycerides.They are composed of three parts fatty acid to one part glycerol. Of course molecules are tiny, one triglyceride molecule does not do much on its own. One fan sitting in Lambeau Field (home of the Green Bay Packers) would look inconsequential. But add 75,000 fans doing “the wave,” and you have what seems like one big living object. So it is with triglycerides. Once they begin to attach to each other, they can become a big grease clog. Service professionals report finding grease chunks the size of boulders in some larger grease traps. Fat molecules keep attaching to each other until something disrupts the process. For example, if hot water is poured on a chunk of grease in a drain, some of the outer molecules will dissolve off and become free-flowing again.Therefore, some of the grease is actually eliminated. How much depends on many factors, pH, temperature, and how long the process goes on. Even if bacteria do not completely consume the fatty acids and glycerides, they will not reform into grease molecules or grease clogs. This is the biggest misconception about enzymes. Many claim that the grease is just pushed further down the line to form a problem elsewhere. Although this may be true with some cleaning methods and chemicals, it is not true of enzyme and bacteria treatments. Once the enzyme lipase has destroyed the connections, the grease will not form again down the line. In fact, the enzymes help the wastewater treatment process by starting biological treatment far upstream. The uneaten fatty acids and glycerides will remain water-soluble and will flow with the wastewater to the final treatment location. This is not to say that enzymes are a cure-all. For example, some wastewater treatment plants cannot handle high loads of water-soluble fatty acids and glycerides. But most treatment plants would rather have those substances than untreated FOG. This bioremediation process using enzymes and bacteria is done everyday by huge municipal wastewater treatment plants all over the world.How Enzymes Attack:Enzymes attack grease in a much different way. The enzyme lipase actually attacks the grease molecule and destroys the connections between its components. The lipase enzyme breaks the molecules into the three fatty acid units and the one glyceride unit. These have no way of connecting with other grease molecules to form hard grease deposits. At this point, the bacteria present will start to feed on the fatty acids and the glycerides, converting them back to their basic components of carbon dioxide and water.The broken up fats in the water are able to bypass the grease trap, move downstream, and cause grease blockages. Solvents and surfactants are not the same as enzymes they only change how the grease looks and feels. Enzymes actually change the character of the grease into water-soluble components, which will never reform as grease anywhere downstream. Surfactants can be beneficial in that they help enzymes work. Enzymes and bacteria only work on the surface of a substance. When a surfactant is used, more surface area is exposed. A surfactant will turn a chunk of grease floating in water into many droplets. This gives the enzymes and bacteria more surface area to attack and digest the grease.Solvents and Surfactants:The way enzymes work is far different from the way solvents and surfactants work on grease. In simple terms, a solvent turns hard grease into a liquid state without changing its actual character. It does this by temporarily breaking the bonds of molecules (not the fatty acid and glycerides of the molecules) so they dissolve in water. The water then carries the grease downstream until the solvent wears off, at which point the grease reforms. Surfactants (short for “surface active agents”) emulsify two substances together so that they look like one.When a surfactant is used on grease in water, it does not break the fat molecules into pieces but instead separates them from each other so that they mix with the water. The best example of this is the Dawn dish soap commercial that starts by showing a thin layer of grease on top of dishwater. When a drop or two of the detergent is added, the grease magically “disappears.” The dish soap is a surfactant. What you don’t see is that the grease layer returns when the surfactant wears off. Wondering what they use to clean waterfowl that have been caught up in oil spills? You guessed it soaps and strong surfactants. One reason restaurants have trouble with grease in their drain lines is because their dish and laundry cleaners are high in surfactants.Choose the Right Tool: There are many methods and many products for dealing with FOG. Each used in the right conditions can do the job correctly. Most wastewater treatment plants use some form of biological treatment to clean the water of organic material, including FOG. Biological treatment involves both enzymes and bacteria. Enzymes help provide the bacteria with food. Although enzymes are not magic, they are biological facts of nature that can be valuable allies in the war against grease.
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Grease Is Bad – Septic Tank Cleaning Fort Worth

How often have you found yourself pouring oil down the sink? Hopefully not on a frequent basis, especially if your home is equipped with a septic system. Septic systems can not tolerate grease for a variety of reasons, and today we will discuss what might happen to your septic system if it becomes clogged with substances such as grease and fat. More than two decades have passed since Septic One Septic Tank Service first began pumping out the septic tanks of Fort Worth residents. Our experience has shown us that no matter how bad your septic system is or how long has passed since it was cleaned, we have probably seen something worse.

  • Grease, on the other hand, will cause far more difficulties than neglecting your monthly septic system cleaning.
  • Grease and oil are not only the sludge left over after you fry up a load of bacon; they are also residue from a variety of other sources, including food.
  • Grease-Clogged PipesGrease is well-known for fouling up pipes.
  • It’s hard to imagine what kind of havoc grease may cause on a large open network such as a city sewer system, let alone on your own private closed sewage treatment system.
  • This means that if the blockage is severe enough, we will have to dig up the pipes to dislodge the impediment.
  • This is referred to as the biological process.
  • Similarly to small folks at a food truck carnival, the bacteria in your sewage tank are savoring everything they can get their hands on.

It is this sludge that we are responsible for cleaning out of the tank’s bottom.

Solid waste will not be broken down properly and will have a higher chance of clogging the drain field.

As you may recall, oil floats on top of water, and when grease and oil are injected into the septic tank, they have the potential to find their way to the drainage field.

The pipes might become blocked if grease and oil make their way into the drain field; there is no way to fix this type of barrier without replacing it.

It is not necessary to be concerned about the small amount of grease that will find its way into the septic tank as long as you keep up with a regular cleaning plan.

In the event that you can’t recall the last time you had your septic tank cleaned, it is time to contact Septic One to schedule a cleaning and inspection.

Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any queries or concerns.

What will dissolve grease in a septic tank?

What will dissolve grease in a septic tank and how do you do it? Combine one pound of powder detergent and three gallons of boiling water in a large mixing bowl. Pour carefully into the container while keeping it close to the drain to avoid burning yourself. Drain openers made from baking soda and vinegar are also helpful. In addition to salt and baking soda, you can use them to dissolve a grease plug. What enzymes are responsible for the breakdown of grease? Lipases are enzymes that break down fat molecules such as oils and grease.

  1. When you add yeast to your septic system, it helps to aggressively break down waste particles, which is beneficial.
  2. After the initial addition, add 14 cup of instant yeast every 4 months for the next 4 months.
  3. Pour a cup of washing soda down the drain and let it sit for a few minutes before flushing.
  4. This will help to clear obstructions and remove oil from the system.

What will dissolve grease in a septic tank? – Related Questions

A thin coating of grease can accumulate in the septic tank, grease trap, or sewage line if they are not properly cleaned, which is normally accomplished by doing a regularly scheduled cleaning. In the long run, the layer of grease will combine with other materials such as paper, solid trash, or soap residue, resulting in the formation of a tough crust.

How do I clean my septic tank naturally?

You may manufacture your own natural cleaning agent by combining roughly a quarter cup of baking soda with half a cup of vinegar and two teaspoons of lemon juice. The baking soda will bubble up, which will aid in the removal of debris and filth from your tub and drainage system. It’s an excellent cleanser, and your septic system will appreciate it!

How do you break down the sludge in a septic tank?

Reduce Sludge in a Septic Tank Without Using a Pump Invest in an aeration system for your septic tank that includes diffused air. Any sludge that has been compacted should be broken apart. Include a bio-activator or microbe combination in your recipe. Keep the aeration system in good working order. As needed, add extra Microbes to the mix.

Does vinegar dissolve grease?

The acidity of vinegar makes it easy to cut through grease. Spray a mixture of vinegar and water onto a splattered cooktop, let it to set for 10 minutes, and then scrub it clean with soapy water to remove any remaining residue. It should be easily removed with a damp cloth.

Is Dawn dishwashing liquid safe for septic systems?

For these reasons, Dawn is a safe product for use in septic systems, and it does not include any of the potentially dangerous components listed above. However, despite the fact that Dawn is effective at cutting grease and cleaning, it does not remove the enzymes and bacteria that are essential in your sewage system.

Does Grease hurt a septic system?

It has the potential to cause significant harm to your septic system.

Grease. It will not decompose in the same manner that water and garbage will. The result of pouring oil down the drain is that the drain becomes completely blocked, and nothing will be able to pass through.

What happens to oil in a septic tank?

Oil, grease, and fat are all types of fat.

Can I use bleach if I have a septic tank?

The use of bleach in moderation will not cause your septic system to go out of balance. Moderate usage is defined as the quantity of detergent used in one normal-sized load of laundry (3/4 cup) or the amount of toilet bowl cleaner used in one application. Some suggestions for keeping your home clean and your septic system safe are included below.

Is baking soda and vinegar OK for septic tank?

Using baking soda and vinegar as drain cleaners is both safe and effective, and, best of all, they are completely safe for your septic tank and drain field to use. Using bleach and ammonia-based cleansers (which includes the majority of the cleaning aisle at big-box retailers) might be detrimental to the beneficial microorganisms in your septic tank.

Does white vinegar kill bacteria in septic tank?

Many other solutions for cleaning drains, toilets, and sinks contain harsh chemicals that might be harmful to your septic tank, so be cautious while using them. Yes, those chemicals eliminate the germs in your kitchen and bathroom, but they also kill the beneficial microorganisms that your septic system requires to function properly. Vinegar is one of the most effective natural cleaning agents available.

Can you take a shower if your septic tank is full?

In a suitable system, just the water would be discharged into the leach field unless you ran too much water at too rapid a rate. The best course of action is to discharge your shower water outdoors into a separate drain area, however this may not be permitted where you are. Previously, this system was referred to as a gray water system.

How can I increase bacteria in my septic tank naturally?

When you clean one toilet on the first level, flush a package of brewer’s dry yeast down the toilet on the second floor. The yeast will aid in the addition of “good” bacteria to your septic tank as well as the breakdown of waste.

What is the best toilet paper for septic systems?

Cottonelle Ultra CleanCare Toilet Paper 24 Rolls is the best septic-safe toilet paper available on the market. Choosing the Best Seventh Generation White Toilet Paper 48 16-Count Freedom Living Septic-Safe Toilet Paper, Top Quality Caboo Tree Free Bamboo Toilet Paper 242 more rows at the top of the page

Can you pour milk down the drain if you have a septic tank?

Yoghurt/milk will not harm your septic system, but it will not get rid of the septic smell created by a lack of helpful bacteria in your septic system, and it will not break down the particles in your septic system, allowing the drain field to become sluggish and ultimately obstructions to form.

Are long showers bad for septic systems?

Taking excessively long showers on a daily basis, along with numerous, little loads of laundry, is all it takes to overwhelm your septic system with too much water. Before partially treated water may enter the drain field, it must first pass through the primary treatment tank and break up particles.

How do you remove old hard grease?

Make a homemade degreaser by combining equal parts baking soda and dish soap with 20 drops of orange essential oil for a powerful cleaning solution. The d-limonene included in the essential oil will aid in the removal of tenacious grease from the surface of the skin. Use a moist sponge to scrape the mixture into the surface after it has been allowed to settle for 10 minutes.

What is the best heavy duty degreaser?

You may also prepare a DIY degreaser by combining equal parts baking soda and dish soap with 20 drops of orange essential oil to achieve the desired results.

In this essential oil, the presence of d-limonene will aid in the removal of tenacious grease from the skin. Use a moist sponge to scrape the mixture into the surface after it has been left for 10 minutes.

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