Septic Tank Additives: Do They Work?

Today, we’ll explain why septic tank additives are ineffective and how they can damage your septic system. Our septic technicians will debunk the myths surrounding these harmful additives and offer expert advice for proper septic tank maintenance. Septic Blue of Tampa is the septic company to call when you need reliable septic system services.

What Are Septic Tank Additives?

These are products that claim to improve the performance of septic systems. According to the manufacturers, these additives are made up of sodium bicarbonate, surfactants, calcium, enzymes, bacteria, and other ingredients.

While manufacturers advertise septic tank additives as septic-safe products, that’s far from the truth. The chemical ingredients present in these additives can disrupt the bacterial activity in the septic tank and lead to septic failure. Besides, they won’t make the solids inside the tank ‘disappear’ as they claim. They are only a waste of money, as they offer little to no value. Instead of relying on septic additives, it’s advisable to invest in proper maintenance, including regular septic tank cleaning in Gibsonton, to ensure optimal performance.

How Do I Increase Bacteria in My Septic Tank?

• Only flush the three P’s (pee, poo, and paper): These are the only items that should be flushed down the toilet. Avoid flushing other items, such as wipes, paper towels, or food scraps, as they can clog your pipes and disrupt the bacterial balance.
• Properly dispose of waste: Everything you put down your kitchen sink or flush down the toilet makes its way into the septic system if it doesn’t get stuck somewhere along the drain lines. Grease, oil, cooking fat, and other items can create clogs and harm the beneficial bacteria in your septic tank. To keep your septic tank in good shape, it’s important to practice proper disposal habits.
• Conserve water: The amount of water you put into your septic system should never exceed its capacity. Excessive water use could overload the system and cause a wide range of issues. By using water more efficiently, you can reduce the amount of wastewater that enters your septic tank, allowing the bacteria to work more effectively.
• Schedule regular septic tank pumping: Ensure your septic tank is pumped out every 2-3 years, or as recommended by a professional. This helps remove sludge and scum, and provides a healthy environment for bacteria to thrive.

If your septic tank is more than 40 years old, it’s more likely to fail due to old age. It’s a good idea to invest in a new septic tank installation instead of trying to repair a failing one. Call the experts at Septic Blue of Tampa if you need to replace your septic tank.

Conclusion

Septic tank additives are harmful to your septic system as a whole. Apart from killing the beneficial bacteria in the tank, they increase the risk of clogs and environmental pollution. It’s advisable to avoid them altogether. Here at Septic Blue of Tampa, we are available to help you with all of your septic system needs. Whether you’re in need of septic installation, septic tank repair, or leach field inspection, our team is ready to provide top-quality services.