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Many people find that when they have their septic tanks pumped that they are encouraged by the workmen and workwomen to buy an enzymatic additive to keep the septic system “healthy.” So is this true, or are these workers just trying to sell a product and earn commission?

Research shows that people should save their money and allow the natural function of the septic tank to do its thing. The septic tank is alive with millions of naturally occurring bacteria that are there to break down the majority of the solid waste that enters the tank. When solids are broken down by the bacteria, they turn into gasses or liquids that rise to the top of the tank and flow into the drain field where it percolates into the soil. When this water reaches the drain field there are more millions of bacteria waiting for it there to continue the breakdown of waste in the water.

Studies have proven that most of the septic tank additives on the market do not do much of anything. It is also important to note that some additives can actually be harmful to a septic system. Many additives claiming to “aid in the breakdown of waste” actually kill the naturally occurring bacteria. The bacteria are a main function of the septic tank, so when they are killed the septic tank will require more maintenance and more frequent septic tank pumping. In fact, in the state of Washington there is a ban on septic tank additives because of the way in which they interfere with the natural function of the septic system.

People should save their money and focus their attention to properly caring for their septic systems.

Posted on behalf of Mike Smith, A-Flo Free Septic

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Septic systems require a delicate balance to maintain, requiring you to limit the items that you put down the drain. In addition, many substances are difficult or impossible for a septic system to handle, causing unnecessary septic failures and other problems. While most people with a septic system know that they need to keep non-biodegradable items out of their septic, there are a few other items that often still find their way down the drain or flushed down the toilet. Here is a reminder list of three items that should never enter your septic system.

1. F.O.G. Three big culprits that end up down the kitchen sink are fats, oils and grease, or FOG. These can wreak havoc on your septic system and your wallet. Before rinsing plates or pans in the sink, scrape out any fat, oil or grease into a metal can or the garbage, then wipe out any extra grease.
2. Chemicals. We use many chemicals around the house to clean and disinfect. Make sure that you limit the amount of these chemicals that go down the drain. For chemicals used in toilets, showers, sinks and washing machines, try to choose natural or biodegradable products whenever possible.
3. Non-flushables. For some reason, the toilet can be where many items get tossed when they have no business going down any drain. Be careful to keep items like as cotton swabs and female hygiene items out of the toilet.

Just remember that whatever goes down the drain will impact your septic system, especially items that will not break down. Chemicals and toxic materials can upset the pH balance of your septic tank, while  other items can clog your system or create the need for more frequent septic tank pumping. By keeping a close eye on what goes down the drain, you can save your hard-earned money and peace of mind.

Posted on behalf of Tony McAdams, A-1 National Sewer and Drain

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There are several factors to consider when using a garbage disposal or grinder in a home with a septic system. Although these units can be handy, they can also put additional strain on your septic system and result in the need for more frequent septic tank pumping and maintenance. It is important that homeowners understand the effects putting more solid waste down their drains, even when ground through a disposal, will have on their septic system performance and maintenance.

Negating The Impact Of A Garbage Disposal

Garbage disposals may grind or breakdown food solids into smaller pieces, but they do not dissolve these particles. The impact of increasing the flow of solids into your septic system will change how well it’s able to perform. If you are using a garbage disposal, you can minimize this negative impact on your septic system by taking the necessary steps.

• Increasing the frequency of septic tank pumping. With more solids in your septic system, your tank may need to be cleaned more often to maintain an efficient level.
• Monitoring foods and solids that are put into garbage disposal. Keep items which will be difficult to breakdown in the septic tank out of the garbage disposal. Avoid grease, oil, coffee grounds and tougher items like egg shells or produce peels.
• Using additives. There are enzymes which can be used with garbage disposals to enhance the ability for solids to breakdown in the septic tank. It is important to talk with your septic professional to ensure that these additives are safe for your individual septic system.

Ideally, to save on pumping and maintenance, putting minimal solid food down your drains, even if through a disposal, is best for your septic system. However, if you are considering adding or already have a garbage disposal, discuss the best options for maintenance with your septic professional.

Posted on behalf of Tony McAdams, A-1 National Sewer and Drain

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