Septic Tank Additives – Help Or Harm?

If you stroll down the septic aisle in your local hardware store, you’ll see several products like Rid-X that claim to keep septic tanks clean and free of clogs. Many of these additives contain bacterial and enzyme treatments in Omaha, Nebraska, which enhance natural bacteriological processes in septic tanks for more efficient waste breakdown and decomposition. However, a well-maintained septic system doesn’t need these additional bacteria or enzymes to function properly. In fact, some researchers and wastewater experts believe these products actually do more harm than good.

Septic Tank Additives: Help or Harm for Your System?

These chemical products can disintegrate septic tank parts, corrode pipes, and kill off bacteria that are essential for the anaerobic digestion process in septic tanks. Without these bacteria, a septic tank may not decompose waste efficiently, which can result in clogs or even system failure.

Enzyme-based septic tank additives are another type of treatment that stimulates bacterial colonies by changing the structure of organic contaminants, making it easier for bacteria to feed on them. For example, cellulase enzymes break down toilet paper, while protease breaks down protein-based pollutants. However, these enzymes don’t provide much help in breaking down complex materials such as food scraps or plant matter.

The best option is to look for biological-based septic tank treatments that combine a blend of beneficial bacteria strains and other ingredients to promote more efficient waste breakdown in the septic system. These are available in monthly or yearly treatments and can be effective for up to a year, depending on the needs of your septic system.

Crown Pumping, LLC
“3722 S 119th Street
Omaha, NE 68144”
(402) 957-7449