Septic tank bacteria are essential for the proper functioning of your septic system. These bacteria break down waste and solids, preventing them from accumulating in the tank and causing problems. Without healthy septic tank bacteria, your septic system can back up, overflow, and create a health hazard. The Importance of Septic Tank Bacteria and How to Keep Them Healthy.
Types of Bacteria in Septic Tanks:
There are two main types of bacteria in septic tanks: aerobic and anaerobic. Aerobic bacteria need oxygen to survive, while anaerobic bacteria do not. Both types of bacteria are important for breaking down waste. You need a healthy combination of both!
Aerobic bacteria are found in the top layer of the septic tank, where they are exposed to oxygen. They break down waste into smaller particles that can then be broken down by anaerobic bacteria. Anaerobic bacteria are found in the bottom layer of the septic tank, where there is no oxygen. They break down waste into methane gas and carbon dioxide. This is also one of the reasons why a Aeration Treatment Unit MUST be on a timer and not on 24/7 !
How to Keep Your Septic Tank Bacteria Healthy:
There are a few things you can do to keep your septic tank bacteria healthy:
- Have your septic tank inspected and pumped regularly by a professional. This will help to remove any solids and sludge that have built up in the tank and can harm the bacteria.
- Avoid putting grease, oil, and fat down your drains. These substances can coat the bacteria and prevent them from doing their job.
- Avoid putting harsh chemicals down your drains. Chemicals can kill the bacteria in your septic tank. Anything that says on it “Anti-Septic” is ANTI SEPTIC TANK!
- Use a garbage disposal sparingly. Garbage disposals can put a lot of solids into your septic tank, which can overwhelm the bacteria. In our over 40 years in the Septic Industry, We tell our client’s to remove all garbage disposals or to expect getting your septic tank pumped every 3 months to remove what your garbage can was designed to. Your septic tank is not a trash can so do not treat it like one!
- Compost food scraps instead of putting them down your garbage disposal. Composting is a great way to reduce the amount of waste that goes into your septic tank and help keep the bacteria healthy.
- Plant trees and shrubs near your septic tank to help filter wastewater. Trees and shrubs can help to remove harmful bacteria from the wastewater before it enters the soil.
What to Avoid Putting in Your Septic Tank:
There are a number of things you should avoid putting in your septic tank, as they can kill the bacteria or otherwise damage the system. These include:
- Grease, oil, and fat
- Harsh chemicals, such as bleach, drain cleaners, and pesticides
- Medications
- Non-biodegradable products, such as feminine hygiene products, diapers, and wipes
- Coffee grounds
- Eggshells
- Kitty litter
Additional Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Septic System:
- Conserve water. The more water you use, the more solids and waste will enter your septic tank, which can overwhelm the bacteria. Do not run water when brushing your teeth or washing your dishes. When taking a shower, Get in and get out ASAP or turn off the water when you are not using it directly on your body. Limit all baths or take them outside your home like in a backyard or a hotel!
- Space out water usage. Avoid using a lot of water all at once, such as taking multiple long showers in a row or doing several loads of laundry back-to-back. A separate septic system for your laundry is the best. This will take both short and long term loads off your septic tank.
- Fix any leaks promptly. Leaks can waste water and put additional strain on your septic system.
- Have your septic tank professionally inspected and pumped every 2-4 years, depending on the size of your tank and the number of people in your household.
Follow these tips to a septic tank T:
By following these tips, you can help keep your septic tank bacteria healthy and avoid costly repairs. If you have any concerns about your septic tank, be sure to consult a professional.
Here are some additional tips that I have not mentioned yet:
- Use septic-safe products. There are a number of cleaning products and other household items that are specifically designed to be safe for septic systems. Look for products that are labeled “septic safe” or “biodegradable.”
- Use BioForce Bacterial Waste Liquefier. Using BioForce Bacterial Waste Liquefier once a month will help your septic tank work environmentally better using mother nature friendly septic bacteria. This will also help keep your total septic system “Top of Mind”.
- Avoid using antibiotics. Antibiotics can kill the beneficial bacteria in your septic tank. If you need to take antibiotics, be sure to talk to your doctor about how to minimize the impact on your septic system.
- Be careful what you put in your garbage disposal. As I mentioned earlier, garbage disposals can put a lot of solids into your septic tank. Avoid putting things like meat scraps, bones, and grease down your garbage disposal.
- Monitor your water usage. If you notice that your water usage has increased significantly, it could be a sign of a problem with your septic system. Have your septic tank inspected by a professional to rule out any problems.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your septic tank functions properly for many years to come.
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The Importance of Septic Tank Bacteria and How to Keep Them Healthy by SepticTankBacteria.com