Bacteria: The Unsung Heroes Living Inside Your Septic Tank

What Do Bacteria Do Inside a Septic Tank?

When wastewater enters the tank, heavier solids settle to the bottom as sludge while oils and grease float to the top as scum. Between these layers is liquid wastewater containing dissolved and suspended organic material. Naturally occurring bacteria feed on some of this organic matter and break it down through biological processes. This reduces a portion of the waste and allows the remaining wastewater to move toward the drain field for further treatment.

Where Do These Bacteria Come From?

Septic tanks do not need to be manually populated with bacteria. Microorganisms enter the system naturally through household wastewater and establish themselves in the tank. Human waste and other organic material provide a continuing food source for these organisms. The bacterial population can change based on temperature, wastewater composition, household activity, and the substances entering the tank. A functioning septic system provides an environment where these naturally occurring microorganisms can perform their role.

Beware of Household Chemicals

Some household products can interfere with the biological activity inside a septic tank when used excessively. Strong disinfectants, antibacterial products, solvents, and certain chemical cleaners can affect microorganisms when they enter the wastewater in large amounts. This does not mean homeowners need to avoid cleaning products altogether. Instead, follow product directions and avoid pouring concentrated chemicals, paints, solvents, or other inappropriate substances down household drains. What goes into the plumbing eventually reaches the septic system. It’s also advisable to schedule septic cleaning on a regular basis to remove the hardened solids inside the tank.

Septic Pumping Is Still Necessary

Bacteria break down some organic material, but they do not make all solid waste disappear. Sludge and scum continue to accumulate and eventually need to be removed through professional septic pumping. Waiting too long can allow solids to move toward the drain field, where they may contribute to costly problems. How frequently a tank needs pumping depends on factors such as tank size, household size, wastewater volume, and the amount of solids entering the system.

The Impact of Bacteria on the Drain Field

The effluent that exits a septic tank is dispersed through a network of perforated pipes buried in gravel-filled trenches. As the liquid moves through the soil, beneficial bacteria consume remaining organic matter and neutralize harmful pathogens. If bacteria in the septic drain field is disrupted, untreated solids and thick slime can build up and clog the soil. Some of the problems you may experience when your drain field performance is affected include biomat formation, backups, odors, and drainage failure. Reach out to a septic service in Town 'N' County when you notice any of these signs.