If you own a septic tankShort Pumping Video, it’s important to remember to maintain it. It can be easy to “set it and forget it” like a slow cooker or a sprinkler system, but that’s not how it works. Part of your maintenance plan should be remembering to schedule regular pump-outs and septic service to keep all parts functioning as they should. In addition, there are other important directives that come with owning a septic system. One of those is knowing the proper use of chemicals and additives to use in your tank. Some chemicals are helpful, but others can cause serious problems. Keep reading and we’ll explain which ones are safe, which ones to avoid, and how to care for your system the smart way.
Safe Chemicals for Your Septic Tank
Harsh chemicals are never recommended for a septic system. If you are having issues with your tank, it’s best to avoid guessing and call an expert like Quality Septic Inc. With that said, when used in moderation, and for the right purposes, here are some products and chemicals that are safe for your septic system:
- Mild Soaps
Choose soaps labeled “biodegradable,” “non-toxic,” or “septic safe.” These break down easily and won’t harm the helpful bacteria in your tank. - Vinegar
Vinegar is a natural cleaner that kills germs without hurting your septic system. It works well for cleaning sinks, showers, and toilets. - Baking Soda
Baking soda is great for scrubbing and freshening drains. It’s safe, natural, and gentle on your septic tank. - Oxygen-Based Bleach (in small amounts)
This type of bleach is a better choice than chlorine bleach. It’s less harsh and doesn’t kill the bacteria in your tank as easily. - Enzyme-Based Cleaners
These products use natural enzymes to break down waste in your septic tank. They can actually help your tank work better and last longer.
More natural-based cleaners like the ones listed above are great alternatives that can help break down buildup and deodorize your drains without destroying all of the good bacteria in your septic tank. As a precaution, you should not use excessive amounts regularly. While small to moderate use is safe, large or very frequent amounts, especially of vinegar, could temporarily lower the pH in your septic tank and slow down bacterial activity. Additionally, avoid mixing vinegar or baking soda with strong chemical cleaners (like bleach or ammonia), as this can create harmful reactions or undo the benefits of using natural products.
Why Good Chemicals Help Your Septic Tank
The bacteria in your tank are like tiny workers. They break down the waste and keep the tank working smoothly. When you use gentle, septic-safe products, you help those bacteria do their job. This keeps your system running well, reduces the need for repairs, and helps your tank last longer. It also saves you money in the long run.
Harmful Chemicals to Avoid
There are some chemicals and additives you should avoid if at all possible. These chemicals can kill the good bacteria or damage parts of your system:
- Chlorine Bleach (especially in large amounts)
Too much bleach can kill the bacteria in your septic tank. Without bacteria, the waste won’t break down as it should. - Drain Cleaners
Most chemical drain cleaners are very strong and can damage your pipes or kill helpful bacteria. Try safer methods like a plunger or natural cleaner, like one of the options listed above. - Paint, Paint Thinner, and Solvents
Never pour these into your drains. They are toxic and can poison your septic system and the environment. - Pesticides and Weed Killers
These products will certainly kill the bacteria in your septic tank. Keep them out of your drains and away from your septic system. - Antibacterial Soaps
They may seem like a good idea, but the antibacterial properties in the soap also rid your tank of the helpful bacteria your septic system needs to work properly.
Why Bad Chemicals Cause Problems
Harsh chemicals will cause the good bacteria in your tank to disappear. Without them, the waste stays in the tank and builds up. This can lead to clogs, backups into your home, horrible smells, and even damage to your drain field. Fixing these problems can be expensive and stressful.
Why Use Any Chemicals at All?
We all need to clean our homes to stay healthy. The key is choosing the right kinds of products. Natural and septic-safe cleaners get the job done without harming your system. That way, you stay clean and safe, and so does your septic tank.
Other Tips to Keep Your Septic System Healthy
- Never flush wipes, even if they say “flushable.”
- Don’t overload your system by using too much water at once. Doing multiple loads of laundry back-to-back, running the dishwasher while also taking long showers, or leaving a faucet dripping all day can all flood the system with excess water.
- Get your tank pumped every 3-5 years or as recommended by your septic services provider.
- Always read product labels and look for “septic safe” before using.
Taking care of your septic system doesn’t have to be difficult. At Quality Septic Inc., we hope to help you make this process as easy as possible. If you have any concerns about the function of your septic tank or drain field, please give us a call at (813) 547-5525.
