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 Septic Tank & Drainfield Treatments & Chemicals vs Septic Tank Pumping - expert advice
- SEPTIC TREATMENTS & CHEMICALS - Septic System Treatments, septic tank additives, septic drainfield restorers, Septic system chemicals, septic tank treatments, septic tank bacteria, yeast in septic tanks. Authoritative citations explain that septic tank pumping is what's needed to maintain & preserve the working septic tank and drainfield or soakaway bed, not Septic tank additives: position of septic experts, Canadian & US Government Agencies
- SEPTIC DRAINFIELD FAILURE DIAGNOSIS - separate article
- SEPTIC DRAINFIELD LIFE - separate article
- SEPTIC DRAINFIELD RESTORERS? - separate article
- SEPTIC DRAINFIELD SIZE & SEPTIC DRAINFIELD SHAPE - separate articles
- SEPTIC LIFE EXPECTANCY - separate article
- SEPTIC LIFE MAXIMIZING STEPS - separate article
- SEPTIC TANK INSPECTION PROCEDURE - separate article
- Questions & Answers about the need for and use of septic system treatments, chemicals, additives, restorers
- References
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InspectAPedia tolerates no conflicts of interest. We have no relationship with advertisers, products, or services discussed at this website.
Septic tank maintenance: This article discusses the need, choices, and use of septic chemicals or bacterial or other septic tank additives, septic system restorers, and septic tank treatments for septic systems. Also see SEPTIC DRAINFIELD RESTORERS?
Green links show where you are. © Copyright 2013 InspectAPedia.com, All Rights Reserved. Author Daniel Friedman.
SEPTIC PRODUCTS FOR SALE - Alternative Onsite Waste Disposal (Septic System) Materials & Products
 Should you add septic treatment chemicals, nutrients, cleaners, bacteria, yeast, root killers, septic drainfield
decloggers to septic systems? Generally, no. Why not? What causes septic system failures?
What do experts say about septic chemicals and septic treatments?
Why do people use them? These questions are addressed here. Our page top photograph shows a collection of septic system additives, chemicals, cleaners, root killers, etc. for sale at a building supply store.
We make no specific representation about the efficacy of any of the particular products shown in the page top photo, but expert sources quoted in this article should be read carefully by any property owner considering adding a chemical, enzyme, or other product claimed to treat their septic tank or drainfield. Also see TOILETS, DON'T FLUSH LIST.
Comments and suggestions for content are welcome.
Citation of this article by reference to this website and brief quotation for the sole purpose of review are permitted. Use of this information at other websites, in books or pamphlets for sale is reserved
to the author. Technical review by industry experts has been performed and is ongoing - reviewers are listed at "References."
- Arcan Enterprises, Scotch Plains NJ,
septic field hydrogen peroxide treatment system. Arcan reports that their system can be applied by homeowners. 888-35ARCAN
908-322-0468 in New Jersey.
E-mail: arcan@worldnet.net
[Check with your local health department for advice and any local regulations before using this or any other septic system cleaner or additive.]
- Biocycle Wastewater Treatment a BioCycle Unit, Tertiary Polishing Filter and Monitoring System.- Ireland
- See SEPTIC DRAINFIELD RESTORERS?
- Product Submissions Are Invited - for septic maintenance and repair or alternative septic system products to be considered for listing, please include supporting research and product literature. There is no listing fee. We do ask for supporting literature including studies of septic system treatment product use and product effectiveness.
Contact Us - please use email. Also see Info-Share support explanation
ARE Septic Tank ADDITIVES USEFUL? - Septic System Additives and Chemicals - are they needed?
Septic Additive Companies are Asked for Independent Supporting Research
Many septic treatment producers and distributors contact us with suggested products. We ask for independent, peer-reviewed, professional research supporting each suggested product. Such support is particularly needed for two reasons:
- Magic Septic System Cure Industry: The high cost of replacing a failed septic absorption field or seepage pit system naturally breeds an industry of "magic bullets" that are questionable (see the citations which follow) and sometimes actually harmful to the septic system and/or the environment.
- Illegal Septic System Treatments: Because of the lack of demonstrated effectiveness, and perhaps more important, because some septic additives or cleaners are dangerous or can cause serious ground water contamination they are illegal in many jurisdictions.
Septic tank additives or "rejuvenators" are not needed in your septic tank, whether the additives are chemically-based (organic or inorganic
compounds that claim to break up sludge or scum or to unclog drainfields), or biologically-based septic additives (septic tank yeast cultures, septic tank bacteria, starter bacteria, or septic tank enzymes).
Some septic tank or septic drainfield additives such as yeast or harsh chemicals can actually damage the septic system. Yeast can cause frothing and excessive activity in the septic tank, preventing normal settling of solids and coagulation of greases. This agitation forces solid waste into the drainfield
and by clogging the soil, shortens its life. Other septic chemicals intended to kill tree roots or unclog clogged leachfield soils can contaminate the environment.
Can Some Conditions Kill Off Needed Septic Tank Bacteria? Do we need a septic tank "starter bacteria"?
If other conditions at a property have resulted in killing-off the (needed) septic tank bacteria (such as adding unusually large amounts of bleach, disinfectants, or antibiotics to a septic tank)
some folks sell bacterial "starters" to "rejuvenate" the septic tank. This makes little sense for the following reasons:
- Calculations of "septic tank die-off" which demonstrate that about 2 gallons of bleach is likely to harm septic tank bacteria have been based on a "static septic system", a fixed septic tank volume into which no new wastewater, sewage, and their diluting and re inoculating effect have been considered. You will see in the Ontario ministry statement 3(f)(ii)[below] that small amounts of bleach, drain cleaners, lye, etc. such as the quantities expected in normal household use will not harm a functioning septic system.
- If you don't correct the conditions that have caused a bacterial die-off in the septic tank, no amount of starter or booster is going to make any difference. For example, large quantities of antibiotics entering a septic system at a nursing home will continue to risk harm to the septic tank ecology.
- Adding to a septic tank products such as enzymes which claim to break down grease risk destroying the floating scum layer in the septic tank, forcing unwanted
oils and debris into the leach field. in the Ontario ministry statement 3(f)(iii) [below] you will note that enzyme treatments have not been found effective nor useful in septic systems.
- As soon as you stop putting inappropriate bleach, disinfectant, or antibiotics into the septic system and after the first time someone uses a toilet, the septic tank has been re inoculated with what it needs.
However the release of chemicals from a septic system to the environment can be a serious problem in some locations, especially if larger volume industrial processes or larger facilities such as nursing homes are the chemical source, or if a well-meaning property owner pours large quantities of some treatments, chemicals, yeast, bleach, some root killers, or other "additives" into the septic system.
- Forcing hydrogen peroxide or other chemicals into drainfield or leach field soils can damage the soil and
contaminate the environment.
Septic Tank PUMPING PREVENTS FAILURES - Authoritative Citations on Septic Tank Pumping, Failure Prevention, Additives
Pumping the septic tank regularly is the main thing that can and should be done
to extend the life of your septic system. See SEPTIC TANK PUMPING SCHEDULE for details on deciding how often the septic tank should be cleaned. Details of a thorough septic tank pumpout, cleaning, and inspection are found beginning at SEPTIC TANK PUMPING PROCEDURE.
In general, septic system chemicals are not needed and are not recommended: Chemicals and other additives promoted to keep a septic system "healthy" or "free-flowing" or "nourished" are generally not required nor recommended by expert sources. The following references support this statement:
- Penn State College of Agriculture - Cooperative Extension,Agricultural Fact Sheet #SW-161 "Septic Tank Pumping," by Paul D. Robillard and
Kelli S. Martin - last line of second paragraph "Biological and chemical additives are not needed to aid or accelerate decomposition."
- Agricultural Fact Sheet #SW-161 "Preventing Septic System Failures," by Paul D. Robillard and Kelli S. Martin - page 2, Maintenance Failures, paragraph
two, "Chemical or biological additives are not a substitute for pumping."
- "Soil Science Facts, Septic Tank Systems," Michael T. Hoover, Dept. of Soil Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, SS 86-4, "Are Septic-Tank
Cleaners Necessary?" "No. These products include biologically based materials (bacteria, enzymes, and yeast), inorganic chemicals (acids and bases), or
organic chemicals (including solvents). They do not reduce the need for regular pumping of the septic tank. Some of these products contain organic
chemicals and may even damage the drainfield or contaminate the groundwater and nearby wells."
- Florida ASHI Seminar, Kissimmee FL, 10/10/93, "Septic Tank News & Views," cites Florida building code 10D-6.050 Maintenance, paragraph (4) "Organic
chemical solvents shall not be advertised, sold, or used in the state for the purpose of degreasing or de clogging onsite sewage disposal systems.
(4)(a) All
organic chemical solvents known to have been used as decloggers or degreasers of onsite sewage disposal systems or those which have a likelihood of being
used in such a manner shall be labeled on the front of each product container with the following language: 'Florida Statute 381.0065 (13) prohibits the
advertisement, sale or use of organic chemical solvents for the purpose of degreasing or de clogging onsite sewage systems in the state.' ... " and
(4)(b)
continues, "Persons who use organic chemical solvents for degreasing or declogging onsite sewage disposal systems shall be subject to revocation of
their septage disposal service permits and shall be subject to other applicable penalties as described in Chapter 381, or 489 Part III,F.S." These
law changes were effective in Florida march 17, 1992.
- "Septic Tank Maintenance," K. Mancl and J.A. Moore, Oregon State University Extension Service, Extension Circular 1343/January 1990. "Biological and
chemical additives are not needed to aid or accelerate settling or decomposition."
- Canadian Ontario Ministry Statement on sewage system operation and maintenance (detailed just below)
- US EPA Statement on Septic Tank Additives (detailed below in this article)
The view that chemical and other additives are not necessary, and in some jurisdictions are illegal, was held by information we collected from every
U.S. state as well as Canadian sources.
CANADA PROHIBITS Septic Tank ADDITIVES - Canadian citations on Septic Tank Additives - prohibited
Our Canadian sources have offered the most detailed explanation of these issues. (Thanks to Alan Carson, Carson Dunlop, Associates, Toronto, Ontario,
for providing this information.) See "Manual of Policy, Procedures, and Guidelines for Onsite Sewage Systems," Referring to Ontario Regulation 374/81
under part VII of the Environmental Protection Act, ISBN 0-7743-7303-2.
ONTARIO MINISTRY - Ontario, Canada, Ministry of the Environment,
"9.4.1 Class 4 Sewage Systems, Construction, Operation, and Maintenance," May 1982.
- Paragraph 3(f)(i) Chemical [disinfectants & cleaners added to the septic tank]: "The function of a septic tank is not improved by the addition of disinfectants or other chemicals. In general, the additary
products which are claimed to "clean" septic tanks contain sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide as the active agent. Such compounds may result in sludge
bulking and a large increase in alkalinity, and may interfere with digestion. The resulting effluent may severely damage the soil structure and cause
accelerated clogging, even though some temporary relief may be experienced immediately after application of the product."
- 3(f)(ii) [Small amounts of bleach or caustics in the septic tank]: Frequently however, the harmful effects of ordinary household chemicals are overemphasized. Small amounts of chlorine bleaches, added ahead
of the tank, may be used for odor control and will have no adverse effects.
Small quantities of lye or caustics normally used in the home, added to
plumbing fixtures, are not objectionable as far as operation of the tank is concerned. If the septic tanks are as large as required by regulation,
dilution of lye or caustics in the tank will be enough to overcome any harmful effects that might otherwise occur.
- 3(f)(iii) [Septic tank enzymes] Some 1200 products, many containing enzymes, have been placed on the market for use in septic tanks, and extravagant claims have been made for some
of them.
As far as is known, none [of the septic tank enzyme additives] has been proved advantageous in properly controlled tests.
- 3(f)(iv) Soaps, detergents, bleaches, drain cleaners, or other material as normally used in the household will have no appreciable adverse effect on the
system. However, as both the soil and essential organisms might be susceptible to large doses of chemicals and other disinfectants, moderation should be the
rule.
Advice of responsible officials should be sought before chemicals arising from a hobby or home industry are discharged into the system.
- 3(f)(v) [Porox or Hydrogen Peroxide septic drainfield treatments]: Adsorption trenches or filters can become clogged due to the plugging of the voids in the stone layer with soil particles, or due to the build-up at
the soil/sewage interface of a black, slimy deposit composed of organic wastes, bacteria, inorganic precipitates and other debris, occurring due to
the age of a system or to its overloading with solids.
A combination of these causes may also occur. Where a slimy deposit is causing or contributing to
clogging, rejuvenation of the soil/sewage interface may be accomplished by removing any stagnant water from the system and injecting a strong solution of
hydrogen peroxide. This form of chemical restoration was developed and patented (1977) by the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation (WARF) and the
process named POROX. Applications using hydrogen peroxide to restore leaching beds must be licensed by WARF.
Because of the dangers of handling this strong oxidant, this treatment should be done by professionals. Confirmation that slimy deposits are clogging the
field can be determined by measuring the liquid level in one or more absorption trenches and comparing it to the level of ground water in an
augured hole located a few feet from the bed perimeter.
Inspection of the trenches by exposing portions at two or more dispersed points in the leaching
bed will indicate whether the clogging is general in all distribution lines and if the voids in the stone are filled or partly filled with soil.
If the
voids are filled POROX™ treatment would not have as lasting an effect. If judged suited to rejuvenation by POROX™, it is important that the septic tank
be pumped and that all static liquid is removed from the absorption trenches prior to the treatment.
Biological and chemical additives are not needed to aid or accelerate decomposition in conventional residential septic systems.
In some jurisdictions such septic tank products, cleaners, root killers, grease dissolvers, etc. are prohibited by building codes, as the
municipality is concerned for chemical pollution of groundwater and aquifers. Other products may actually harm the septic system. Some of my clients who added
yeast to their septic tank regularly discovered that the yeast caused so much frothing in their septic tank that solids were forced into the leach field rather than settling to the tank bottom.
Opinions about what ought to be added to septic tanks to keep them "healthy" range from obscure possibility to ridiculous.
At a class on this topic in Ontario an inspector insisted that a bacterial inoculation was needed in the
septic tank whenever it was pumped. Nonsense.
There is plenty of bacteria left in the tank and entering it
when it's used. Another inspector said he tossed a cat into the septic tank after cleaning. Although it
was difficult to take such a comment seriously, he insisted that he was not kidding. Popular delusions and
the madness of crowds has infected the onsite waste disposal topic as badly as the Dutch tulip craze affected gardeners.
US EPA Statement on Septic Tank Additives
Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems Special Issues Fact Sheet 1 EPA 625/R-00/008
Description of Septic Tank Additive Products
Because of the presence of significant numbers and types of bacteria, enzymes, yeasts, and other fungi and microorganisms in typical residential and commercial wastewaters, the use of septic system additives containing these or any other ingredients is not recommended.
The benefits of consumer products sold as septic system cleaners, degraders, decomposers, deodorizers, organic digesters, or enhancers are not significant or have not been demonstrated conclusively, depending on the product.
Some of these products can actually interfere with treatment processes, affect biological decomposition of wastes, contribute to system clogging, and contaminate ground water. The septic tank/soil absorption field system is the most commonly used onsite wastewater treatment system in the United States. It is relatively low in cost, has no moving parts, and requires little maintenance.
Septic tanks have a number of important functions, including:
- Remove oils, grease and settleable solids. The septic tank is designed to provide quiescent conditions over a sufficient time period to allow settleable solids to sink to the bottom of the tank and floatable solids, oils, and grease to rise to the surface. The result is a middle layer of partially clarified effluent that exits the tank to the soil absorption field.
- Store settleable and floatable material. Tanks are generously sized according to projected wastewater flow and composition to accumulate sludge and scum at the bottom and top of the tank, respectively. Tanks require pumping at infrequent intervals (e.g., 1 to 7 years), depending on sludge and scum accumulation rates.
- Digest/decompose organic matter. In an anaerobic environment, facultative and anaerobic bacteria can reduce retained organic molecules to soluble compounds and gases, including H2, CO2, NH3, H2S, and CH4. This digestion can significantly reduce sludge volume in warm climates.
Types of septic tank or septic system additives and effects on treatment processes
There are three general types of commonly marketed septic system additives:
- Inorganic compounds, usually strong acids or alkalis, are promoted for their ability to open clogged drains. Product ingredients (e.g., sulfuric acid, lye) are similar to those used in popular commercial drain cleaners. These products can adversely affect biological decomposition processes in the treatment system and cause structural damage to pipes, septic tanks, and other treatment system components.
Hydrogen peroxide, once promoted as an infiltration field reconditioner, has been found to actually degrade soil structure and compromise long-term viability of soil treatment potential. Its use to unclog failed infiltration fields is no longer recommended.
- Organic solvents, often chlorinated hydrocarbons (e.g., methylene chloride, trichloroethylene) commonly used as degreasers and marketed for their ability to break down oils and grease. Organic solvents represent significant risks to ground water and wastewater treatment processes. These products can destroy resident populations of decomposer and other helpful microorganisms in the treatment system.
Use of products containing organic solvents in onsite treatment systems is banned in many states. Introduction of organic solvents into onsite systems located in states that ban the use of these products may trigger liability issues if ground water becomes contaminated.
- Biological additives, like bacteria and extracellular enzymes mixed with surfactants or nutrient solutions, which mirror but do not appear to significantly enhance normal biological decomposition processes in the septic tank. Some biological additives have been found to degrade or dissipate septic tank scum and sludge.
However, whether this relatively minor benefit is derived without compromising long-term viability of the soil infiltration system has not been demonstrated conclusively. Some studies suggest that material degraded by additives in the tank contributes to increased loadings of BOD, TSS, and other contaminants in the otherwise clarified septic tank effluent. [For example see our notes below about flushing yeast into the septic tank.]
Should I put yeast into the septic tank? is a common question we receive. The answer: No. Yeast agitates the septic tank, prevents settlement of solids, interferes with formation of the scum layer, and thus pushes solids into the drainfield. See Yeast in the Septic Tank? below.
Should I put baking soda into the septic tank? - No. See Baking Soda in the Septic Tank? below.
Odor Control For Septic Tanks & Septic Systems
Odor control additives for septic systems: Other products containing formaldehyde, paraformaldehyde, quaternary ammonia, and zinc sulfate are advertised to control septic odors by killing bacteria. This objective, however, runs counter to the purpose and function of septic tanks (promoting anaerobic bacterial growth). If odor is a problem, the source should be investigated because sewage may be surfacing, a line might have ruptured, or another system problem might be present.
Canadian Ontario ministry statement 3(f)(ii) (above in this article) permits small amounts of chlorine bleach added to septic tanks as a measure for odor control. However we have not found supporting research for this view and in our OPINION that measure is not recommended because:
- Treatments with bleach at a level low enough and infrequent enough to avoid harm to the septic system are also unlikely to have any lasting effect on odor control
Phosphorous Removal For Septic Systems
Phosphorous removers for septic systems: Another variety of consumer products is marketed for their ability to remove phosphorus from wastewater. These products are targeted at watershed residents who are experiencing eutrophication problems in nearby lakes and streams. Phosphorus is an essential nutrient for aquatic plant growth and limiting its input to inland surface waters can help curtail nuisance algae blooms.
Aluminum (as alum, sodium aluminate, aluminum chloride, and activated alumna), ferric iron (as ferric chloride and ferric sulfate), ferrous iron (as ferrous sulfate and ferrous chloride), and calcium (as lime) have been proven to be effective in stripping phosphorus from effluent and settling it to the bottom of the tank. An important side effect of this form of treatment, however, can be the destruction of the microbial population in the septic tank due to loss of buffering capacity and a subsequent drop in pH. Treatment processes can be severely compromised under this scenario.
Yeast Treatments for Septic Tanks: Putting Yeast or Baking Soda in the Septic Tank?
"Yeast" which some of our clients like to toss into their
septic tank is not helpful and may actually speed drain field failure by keeping the septic treatment tank contents
in an agitated state. First, the aerobic or anaerobic bacteria that help break down sewage in the septic tank are not yeast, and don't need "yeast" as a food or for any other purpose.
More important, agitating a conventional septic tank so that the level of suspended solids is kept high will cause high levels of suspended solids to flow out of the septic tank, onwards to the drainfield where solids speed the clogging of the drainfield piping and trenches, thus reducing the life of the septic system and ultimately leading the the need for costly repairs.
Question: Question on the use of Yeast and Baking Soda in the Septic Tank
I was looking on the web for the ratio for yeast in the septic tank and come across your site "InspectAPedia.com" I grew up watching and participating in the contribution of yeast going into the septic tank from the sink and the out side at the access opening(that's what my dad would call it).
Knowing this and doing this has never really caused any problems in the past, at least not over a short time range (i.e. less then 3-5 yrs). Mind you as I don't do septic tanks or any kind of plumbing for a living, I'm just just noting that it wasn't always the case in my life time that yeast and baking soda were kept out of the tank, rather we put them in.
My question is: If in fact "yeast" tossed into a septic tank "agitates" the slug causing it to rise and "baking soda"( and other flocculants ) lower the concentration of suspended solids in septic tank effluent then why can't you use both? I'm no scientist either so bare with me. Is there a chemical reaction when the 3 are merged together? or does one just void out the other? - Mary & John
Reply: Skip the Yeast and Baking Soda additives to the septic tank
Ultimately, we have to return to these basic points: all discussed above in this article and elaborated here:
- yeast is under no circumstances helpful for a septic tank operation - it has nothing to do with the bacteria needed to break down solids and can actually interfere with their growth by consuming oxygen
- yeast may agitate or aerate the septic tank thus forcing solids into the drainfield and shortening drainfield life, or it can damage other equipment such as an aerator or filter
- adding another chemical to imagine it counteracts the effects of the yeast is of no use since we should not be putting yeast in the tank anyway; if a chemical magically neutralized the yeast then we have a net non-effect anyway. If it does not neutralize the yeast action (which is highly likely to be the case given the liquids and nutrients involved) it's doing nothing.
- you'd need to make the entire septic tank toxic to kill all the yeast - thus also killing the needed bacteria and contaminating the environment with toxic effluent)
- Every authority in the field, law writers, biochemists, code officials, who has no conflict of interest formed by selling a product, advises that septic tank additives are not necessary, and in some cases are harmful, and in some jurisdictions are illegal.
- yeast in the septic tank: an old wive's tale that many people believed, but was not a good idea.
Should I Put Baking Soda in the Septic Tank?
Baking soda in septic tanks:
Finally, baking soda and other flocculants are marketed as products that lower the concentration of suspended solids in septic tank effluent.
Theoretically, flocculation and settling of suspended solids would result in cleaner effluent discharges to the subsurface wastewater infiltration system.
However, research has not conclusively demonstrated significant success in this regard.
So What Should I Put into the Septic Tank?
- Normal human waste and wastewater
- Toilet Paper
Use of Recycled Paper - Based Toilet Paper, US EPA Recommendation, vs. Septic Tank Enzymes
See TOILET TISSUE CHOICES where we address the EPA recommendation for recycled-paper content in toilet tissue. The EPA also provides a search engine to find suppliers.
To Maximize the Life of Your Septic Tank and Drainfield You May
- See SEPTIC LIFE MAXIMIZING STEPS for a list of septic and drainfield life-extending tips that includes the importance of septic tank inspection and pumping, things to keep out of the septic tank, efficient use of water to minimize wastewater volume, what to plant over the drainfield, keeping other water away from the drainfield, keeping vehicles and livestock and trees off of the drainfield.
- See SEPTIC LIFE EXPECTANCY
- Inspect the system for safe conditions, safe tank covers
- Pump the septic tank on schedule - see SEPTIC TANK PUMPING SCHEDULE
- Improve the septic system: adding a greywater system, separate drywell, adding a septic tank inlet or outlet filter (SEPTIC FILTERS), or adding an aerator to convert the conventional septic tank to an aerobic design will increase the level of effluent treatment and extend drainfield life. See SEPTIC SYSTEM DESIGN ALTERNATIVES.
Watch out: adding a septic tank aerator with incomplete design can push solids into and destroy the drainfield. Aerobic septic tanks use multiple chambers to avoid this problem; a retrofit design would typically include an outlet tee filter or separate filtering chamber that, if omitted or not properly maintained is likely to lead to sewage backups or septic system failure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about septic system and septic tank treatments, additives, or chemicals
Question: blocked drain between septic tank and drainfield
What can I do if the drain pipe to the gravel from the septic tank is blocked? - Karwan 7/20/11
Reply:
Clearing a blocked septic drain pipe between the septic tank and the drainfield?
First we need a diagnosis that requires either some digging or a plumber who has a remote camera that can inspect the interior of clogged piping.
If the pipe is clogged because the pipe has broken or collapsed the pipe needs to be excavated and repaired.
If the pipe is clogged by roots, you can have the pipe cleaned by a mechanical "roto-rooter" type drain service but root growth will return unless you find and remove the offending plants.
If the pipe is clogged by sewage that tells me that the baffle in your septic tank has fallen off or deteriorated and you're sending solid waste into the drainfield - which ruins the field; at a very minimum you'd pump the septic tank and install a replacement Tee or baffle.
Search our website for any of those terms to see detailed articles with more explanation.
Question: septic tank leaked into the ground and is near a creek, what can I put into the soil?
My tank has leaked into the ground which is about 25 ft. from a creek. Is there anything I can put in the soil to clean up it up, that won't harm the creek? - Mike S. 9/26/11
Reply:
Mike I'd do the following:
- make sure that the leaky septic tank has been repaired - that stops an ongoing problem that is more harmful to the environment than a single event leak
- direct surface runoff away from the septic tank leak area as much as you can,
- give the natural soil bacteria time to process the pathogens that leaked from the septic tank
Question: Aerobic system producing excessive sludge
Hi - Great article. I am having an issue with my aerobic system producing excessive sludge that is floating on top of my tank. House and system are 5 years old and I have already pumped the tank 8 times. Sludge reappears within 2 months of pumping. We have adjusted the height of the pipe in the tank and have rebuilt the aeration unit. All contractors are stumped. What could cause so much sludge (bulked bacteria) to form?
Reply:
Mike I'm not sure what's going on either.
I'm reluctant to suspect water chemistry and tend to suspect a design issue, presuming the usage and type of wastewater entering the system are normal. If it were a nursing home I'd suspect a problem with antibiotics.
Meanwhile, you might want to get a detailed description of the design specs for your system and then check what's actually installed against the manufacturer's recommendations. Chances are if the aerobic equipment is working properly and the septic tank usage is within its design specs, you wouldn't have excessive sludge. So it could be a pump problem, aerator problem, or other installation issue. It would help to have a guess at whether or not this is a new problem.
Keep me posted.
Question: can I use Arm and Hammer Laundry Perfume and dye free powder in a graywater lagoon?
I am trying to figure out if I can use Arm and Hammer Laundry perfume and dye free powder in a gray water lagoon. The gray water system stays in a pond area and uses natural filters. This water only filters is never used again in watering or other uses. - Anonymous 10/20/11
Reply:
If you are asking about using A&H laundry products at normal household usage levels it should not harm the lagoon system.
If you are asking about using such products to somehow "treat" the lagoon system, that would not be appropriate. Don'tdo it. If the lagoon smells, something is wrong with its design, use, or operation and maintenance that needs correction. A coverup of deodorant would be a mistake and risks contaminating the environment.
Question: should we use Rid-Ex each month to fix the effects of flushing baby wipes down the toilet?
We have incorrectly been flushing baby wipes down our toilets. When a septic cleaning comany came to clean our septic they said we had this buildup in the tank. They suggested we use RIDEX 12 oz./month and clean it again in 1 year. After reading this article I am uncertain if this is the correct approach? Do you have an opinion? or other suggestions?
Thank you. - John Burkard 10/27/12
Reply:
No, John. Using a root killer won't fix a problem in the septic tank. Pump the tank, check that the baffles are undamaged, and then use the system normally. Take a look at TOILETS, DON'T FLUSH LIST.
Question: Reader opinions on toilet paper and septic filters or lint traps
Do not put toilet paper or any other material except human waste in the toilet. Place garbage can in bathroom and place paper in the can. Dispose of paper with other household garbage. Will extend life between pumpings by years. Randy Green, 10/30/12
You can extend the life of your septic system by removing enough non-biodegradeable clothing fibers to carpet your living room each year by adding highly-technical linttraps that filter all the fibers from the washing machine discharge line. It is these non-settleable, drain field plugging fibers that you find adorning the landscape with spider web like features whenever you run into someone who has recycled his gray water for lawn and garden watering. - Sweetfilter 11/1/11
Reply: What's the difference in effect between toilet paper and fabric fibers in the septic system?
Randy, indeed in some countries it is common practice to keep a small, plastic lined waste container next to the toilet, into which used toilet paper and other wastes other than urine or excrement are deposited. I expect that keeping paper out of the septic system gives some added relief in areas where the system is of very limited capacity and perhaps where the water volume is lower than common in North America too.
 But in normal use with a conventional septic system such as designs commonly used in the North America that does not appear to be necessary and I have not found an authoritative source that recommends it. If you or other readers come across such a reference be sure to let us know so that we can post it for others.
On the other hand, I agree completely with Sweetfilter that a septic filter that keeps cloth fibers and similar debris out of the septic system or even out of a drywell used to dispose of laundry wastewater and similar graywater is a great idea and will reduce soil clogging and extend the system life. See FILTERS SEPTIC & GREYWATER for details.
What's the difference in effect between toilet paper and fabric fibers in the septic system? Toilet tissue is claimed to break down into small enough biodegradable fragments that it does not add significantly to soil clogging in the drainfield. Illustrated in our photo (above left), we are running an ongoing test of RV toilet tissue and other tissues to see how they dissolve or break down in plain water and ultimately in water that contains the appropriate septic tank bacteria. See TOILET TISSUE CHOICES and TOILET TISSUE TEST.
Question: how do I choose the best treastment to keep my drains clear and to help my drainfield
I found your site very helpful as we had a clogged septic drain recently. However, now that the drain is clear I need a product that will continue to keep the drain clear and help my drain field. The problem is that there are so many to choose from and I was hoping with your expertise that you could help me in the decision. I have narrowed it down to two and need to choose between them unless you know of something better.
Just an FYI, my system is almost 40 years old, not sure if that helps in your decision. I have narrowed it down to Rid X and NewTechBio. Can you please help me?
- T.B. 3/6/2013
Reply:
For a residence there are no regular-use septic treatments or products that you should be using in your septic tank or drainfield.
Worse, some of them are illegal in many states and jurisdictions (groundwater pollution issues) as you can read in the article above, and none of them is required for maintaining a septic tank or drain.
And worse still, also detailed in the article above, some of these products such as yeast-containing products, agitate the septic tank and shorten the drainfield life or even destroy it by pushing solids into the wastewater effluent.
If on the other hand you operate a restaurant you'd be required to install a grease trap and you might on occasion want to use a biologically safe de-greaser in such drains.
The single most useful thing you can do to keep your septic drainfield working is regular septic tank inspection and pumping or cleaning. See SEPTIC TANK PUMPING REASONS
Second would be to keep water such as from roof or surface runoff away from the drainfield.
At SEPTIC BIOMATS we include a section titled EXTENDING DRAINFIELD LIFE that may also be helpful to you in keeping that drainfield operating as long as possible. Frankly, as you report a 40 year old septic system I'm impressed that it is still working. That's a longer life than one would expect.
At SEPTIC LIFE MAXIMIZING STEPS we give ten steps that make giant strides towards keeping your septic tank, piping, drainfield and other components working as long as possible.
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Questions & answers or comments about drain cleaners and septic tank or drainfield chemicals or treatments for regular or maintenance use. .
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Technical Reviewers & References
Related Topics, found near the top of this page suggest articles closely related to this one.
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Kazunori, Hanyu, Hirohisa Kishino, Hidetoshi Yamashita and Chikio Hayashi. "Linkage between recycling and consumption: a case of toilet paper in Japan." Resources, Conservation and Recycling, Volume 30, Issue 3 (1 September, 2000): 177-199.
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Recycled Content in toilet paper (US EPA definition): When reporting recycled content, some toilet paper (and other product) manufacturers report total recycled content (combining pre- and
post-consumer waste re-use) while others report post-consumer only. Both pre-consumer and post-consumer recycled materials
provide the environmental benefits of displacing virgin feedstocks such as toilet paper using a high percentage of paper made from trees. Using post-consumer content has the added benefit of
providing markets for materials separated for recycling by consumers, such as newspapers and magazines.
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Postconsumer Materials (US EPA definition): A material or finished product that has served its intended use and has been diverted or recovered from waste destined for disposal, having completed its life as a consumer item. Postconsumer materials are part of the broader category of recovered materials.
- Recovered materials: Waste materials and byproducts that have been recovered or diverted from solid waste, but does not include materials and byproducts generated from, and commonly reused within, an original manufacturing process.
- Thanks to reader Ernie Zinter for requesting clarification on the value of adding yeast to a septic tank. 02/17/2010. Don't do it - yeast in the septic is a suburban legend or an old wives tale that is not helpful and may be harmful to the septic system.
Septic Tank Chemicals & Additives - US EPA List, References, Products
- Original citation for EPA article: http://www.epa.gov/nrmrl/pubs/625r00008/html/fs1.htm
- Andress, S.; Jordan, C. 1998. Onsite Sewage Systems. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Civil Engineering Department, Blacksburg, VA.
- Angoli, T. 2000. Hydrogen peroxide not recommended to unclog failed drainfields. Small Flows Quarterly Vol. 1 No. 2, p. 42-44.
- Clark, G.H. 1999. The Effect of Bacterial Additives on Septic Tank Performance. Master's thesis, North Carolina State University, Department of Soil Science, Raleigh, NC.
- Dow, D., and G. Loomis. 1999. Septic Tank Additives. University of Rhode Island Cooperative Extension Service Onsite Wastewater Training Center, Kingston, RI.
- Hairston, J.E., G. Speakman, and L. Stribling. 1995. Protecting Water Quality: Understanding Your Septic System and Water Quality. Alabama Cooperative Extension Publication wq-125.al, June 1995. Developed with support from Auburn University, Auburn, AL.
- Olson, K., D. Gustafson; B. Liukkonen; and V. Cook. 1977. Septic System Owner's Guide. University of Minnesota Extension Services Publication PC-6583-GO. University of Minnesota, College of Agricultural, Food, and Environmental Sciences, St.Paul, MN.
- Rupp, G. 1996. Questions and Answers About Septic System Additives. Montana State University Extension Service, Bozeman, MT.
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech). 1996. Septic System Maintenance. VTU publication no. 440-400, October 1996. Water Quality Program Committee, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA.
- The Septic System Information Website home page for this topic
- Septic Systems Inspection, Testing, & Maintenance- online textbook. Detailed how to inspect, maintain, repair information
- The Home Buyer's Guide to Septic Systems
- Septic Tank Pumping Guide: When, Why, How to pump the septic tank
- Home & Outdoor Living Water Requirements
- Septic Tank Capacity vs Usage in Daily Gallons of Wastewater Flow, calculating required septic tank size, calculating septic tank volume from size measurements
- Septic Tank/Soil-Absorption Systems: How to Operate & Maintain [ copy on file as /septic/Septic_Operation_USDA.pdf ] - , Equipment Tips, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 8271 1302, 7100 Engineering, 2300 Recreation, September 1982, web search 08/28/2010, original source: http://www.fs.fed.us/t-d/pubs/pdfimage/82711302.pdf.
- How Big Should the Leach Field Be? - table of soil percolation rate vs. field size
- Septic System Drainfield Absorption System Biomat Formation - what leads to drain field clogging and expensive drainfield repairs
- Table of Required Septic & Well Clearances: Distances Between Septic System & Wells, Streams, Trees, etc.
- Ten Steps to Keeping a Septic System Working, suggestions from the U.S. EPA, edits and additions by DJF
- Pennsylvania State Fact Sheets relating to domestic wastewater treatment systems include
- Pennsylvania State Wastewater Treatment Fact Sheet SW-161, Septic System Failure: Diagnosis and Treatment
- Pennsylvania State Wastewater Treatment Fact Sheet SW-162, The Soil Media and the Percolation Test
- Pennsylvania State Wastewater Treatment Fact Sheet SW-l64, Mound Systems for Wastewater Treatment
- Pennsylvania State Wastewater Treatment Fact Sheet SW-165, Septic Tank-Soil Absorption Systems
- Document Sources used for this web page include but are not limited to: Agricultural Fact Sheet #SW-161 "Septic Tank Pumping," by Paul D. Robillard and
Kelli S. Martin. Penn State College of Agriculture - Cooperative Extension, edited and annotated by
Dan Friedman (Thanks: to Bob Mackey for proofreading the original source material.)
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Books & Articles on Building & Environmental Inspection, Testing, Diagnosis, & Repair
 The Home Reference Book - the Encyclopedia of Homes, Carson Dunlop & Associates, Toronto, Ontario, 25th Ed., 2012, is a bound volume of more than 450 illustrated pages that assist home inspectors and home owners in the inspection and detection of problems on buildings. The text is intended as a reference guide to help building owners operate and maintain their home effectively. Field inspection worksheets are included at the back of the volume. Special Offer: For a 10% discount on any number of copies of the Home Reference Book purchased as a single order. Enter INSPECTAHRB in the order payment page "Promo/Redemption" space. InspectAPedia.com editor Daniel Friedman is a contributing author.
Or choose the The Home Reference eBook for PCs, Macs, Kindle, iPad, iPhone, or Android Smart Phones. Special Offer: For a 5% discount on any number of copies of the Home Reference eBook purchased as a single order. Enter INSPECTAEHRB in the order payment page "Promo/Redemption" space.
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- Inspecting Septic Systems: Online Book, Inspection, Test, Diagnosis, Repair, & Maintenance: our Online Septic Book: Septic Testing, Loading & Dye Tests, Septic Tank Pumping, Clearances, details of onsite waste disposal system inspection, testing, repair procedures.
- Advanced Onsite Wastewater Systems Technologies, Anish R. Jantrania, Mark A. Gross. Anish Jantrania, Ph.D., P.E., M.B.A., is a Consulting Engineer, in Mechanicsville VA, 804-550-0389 (2006). Outstanding technical reference especially on alternative septic system design alternatives. Written for designers and engineers, this book is not at all easy going for homeowners but is a text I recommend for professionals--DF.
- Builder's Guide to Wells and Septic Systems, Woodson, R. Dodge: $ 24.95; MCGRAW HILL B; TP;
Quoting from Amazon's description: For the homebuilder, one mistake in estimating or installing wells and septic systems can cost thousands of dollars. This comprehensive guide filled with case studies can prevent that. Master plumber R. Dodge Woodson packs this reader-friendly guide with guidance and information, including details on new techniques and materials that can economize and expedite jobs and advice on how to avoid mistakes in both estimating and construction. Chapters cover virtually every aspect of wells and septic systems, including on-site evaluations; site limitations; bidding; soil studies, septic designs, and code-related issues; drilled and dug wells, gravel and pipe, chamber-type, and gravity septic systems; pump stations; common problems with well installation; and remedies for poor septic situations. Woodson also discusses ways to increase profits by avoiding cost overruns.
- Country Plumbing: Living with a Septic System, Hartigan, Gerry: $ 9.95; ALAN C HOOD & TP;
Quoting an Amazon reviewer's comment, with which we agree--DF:This book is informative as far as it goes and might be most useful for someone with an older system. But it was written in the early 1980s. A lot has changed since then. In particular, the book doesn't cover any of the newer systems that are used more and more nowadays in some parts of the country -- sand mounds, aeration systems, lagoons, etc.
Design Manuals for Septic Systems
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US EPA Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems Manual [online copy, free] Top Reference: US EPA's Design Manual for Onsite Wastewater Treatment and Disposal, 1980, available from the US EPA, the US GPO Superintendent of Documents (Pueblo CO), and from the National Small Flows Clearinghouse. Original source http://www.epa.gov/ORD/NRMRL/Pubs/625R00008/625R00008.htm Onsite wastewater treatment and disposal systems,
Richard J Otis, published by the US EPA. Although it's more than 20 years old, this book remains a useful reference for septic system designers.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Water Program Operations; Office of Research and Development, Municipal Environmental Research Laboratory; (1980)
- Eco John® Innovative Toilet Solutions, Global Inventive Industries, Fountain Valley CA, PDF, product brochure
- "International Private Sewage Disposal Code," 1995, BOCA-708-799-2300, ICBO-310-699-0541, SBCCI 205-591-1853, available from those code associations.
- "Manual of Policy, Procedures, and Guidelines for Onsite Sewage Systems," Ontario Reg. 374/81, Part VII of the Environmental
Protection Act (Canada), ISBN 0-7743-7303-2, Ministry of the Environment,135 St. Clair Ave. West, Toronto Ontario M4V 1P5 Canada $24. CDN.
- Manual of Septic Tank Practice, US Public Health Service's 1959.
Onsite Wastewater Disposal Books
- Onsite Wastewater Disposal, R. J. Perkins;
Quoting from Amazon: This practical book, co-published with the National Environmental Health Association,
describes the step-by-step procedures needed to avoid common pitfalls in septic system technology.
Valuable in matching the septic system to the site-specific conditions, this useful book will help you install a reliable system in
both suitable and difficult environments. Septic tank installers, planners, state and local regulators, civil and sanitary engineers,
consulting engineers, architects, homeowners, academics, and land developers will find this publication valuable.
- Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems, Bennette D. Burks, Mary Margaret Minnis, Hogarth House 1994 - one of the best septic system books around, suffering a bit from small fonts and a weak index. While it contains some material more technical than needed by homeowners, Burks/Minnis book on onsite wastewater treatment systems a very useful reference for both property owners and septic system designers.
- Septic Tank/Soil-Absorption Systems: How to Operate & Maintain [ copy on file as /septic/Septic_Operation_USDA.pdf ] - , Equipment Tips, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 8271 1302, 7100 Engineering, 2300 Recreation, September 1982, web search 08/28/2010, original source: http://www.fs.fed.us/t-d/pubs/pdfimage/82711302.pdf
- Soil Percolation Tests soil perc testing guide and instructions
- Percolation Testing Manual, CNMI Division of Environmental Quality, PO Box 501304, Saipan, MP 96950
- Planting Over Septic System Component", Daniel Friedman (author/editor, InspectAPedia.com), The Innovator, Winter/Spring 2008, BCOSSA, British Columbia OnSite Sewage Association, 201-3542 Blansard St., Victoria BC V8X 1W3 Canada
- Save the Septic System - Do Not Flush These Items Down the Toilet, Daniel Friedman, InspectAPedia.com - PDF document, printable
- SEPTIC STANDARDS
- SEPTIC MAGAZINES
- Septic System Owner's Manual, Lloyd Kahn, Blair Allen, Julie Jones, Shelter Publications, 2000 $14.95 U.S. - easy to understand, well illustrated, one of the best practical references around on septic design basics including some advanced systems; a little short on safety and maintenance. Both new and used (low priced copies are available, and we think the authors are working on an updated edition--DF.
Quoting from one of several Amazon reviews: The basics of septic systems, from underground systems and failures to what the owner can do to promote and maintain a healthy system, is revealed in an excellent guide essential for any who reside on a septic system. Rural residents receive a primer on not only the basics; but how to conduct period inspections and what to do when things go wrong. History also figures into the fine coverage.
- Test Pit Preparation for Onsite Sewage Evaluations, State of Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, Portland OR, 800 452-4011. PDF document. We recommend this excellent document that offers detail about soil perc tests, deep hole tests, safety, and septic design. Readers should also see Soil Percolation Tests and for testing an existing septic system, also see Dye Tests
- Grass is Always Greener Over the Septic Tank, Bombeck, Erma: $ 5.99; FAWCETT; MM;
This septic system classic whose title helps avoid intimidating readers new to septic systems, is available new or used at very low prices.
It's more entertainment than a serious "how to" book on septic systems design, maintenance, or repair. Not recommended -- DF.
- US EPA Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems Manual Top Reference: US EPA's Design Manual for Onsite Wastewater Treatment and Disposal, 1980, available from the US EPA, the US GPO Superintendent of Documents (Pueblo CO), and from the National Small Flows Clearinghouse. Original source http://www.epa.gov/ORD/NRMRL/Pubs/625R00008/625R00008.htm
- Water Wells and Septic Systems Handbook, R. Dodge Woodson. This book is in the upper price range, but is worth the cost for serious septic installers and designers.
Quoting Amazon: Each year, thousands upon thousands of Americans install water wells and septic systems on their properties. But with a maze of codes governing their use along with a host of design requirements that ensure their functionality where can someone turn for comprehensive, one-stop guidance? Enter the Water Wells and Septic Systems Handbook from McGraw-Hill.
Written in language any property owner can understand yet detailed enough for professionals and technical students this easy-to-use volume delivers the latest techniques and code requirements for designing, building, rehabilitating, and maintaining private water wells and septic systems. Bolstered by a wealth of informative charts, tables, and illustrations, this book delivers:
* Current construction, maintenance, and repair methods
* New International Private Sewage Disposal Code
* Up-to-date standards from the American Water Works Association
- Wells and Septic Systems, Alth, Max and Charlet, Rev. by S. Blackwell Duncan, $ 18.95; Tab Books 1992. We have found this text very useful for conventional well and septic systems design and maintenance --DF.
Quoting an Amazon description:Here's all the information you need to build a well or septic system yourself - and save a lot of time, money, and frustration. S. Blackwell Duncan has thoroughly revised and updated this second edition of Wells and Septic Systems to conform to current codes and requirements. He also has expanded this national bestseller to include new material on well and septic installation, water storage and distribution, water treatment, ecological considerations, and septic systems for problem building sites.
- The NSFC Products List has an excellent list of design manuals/modules available from their website or by telephone 800-624-8301
- Submissions welcome. send us a suggested document link or request an exchange of website links
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