The average septic system contains many important
components, but one of the most vital parts of any septic system is one you can't
even see. Aerobic and anaerobic septic tank systems both rely on colonies of
beneficial bacteria, which consume and break down the sewage and organic waste
products that pass through the system on the way to the drain field.
However, while these helpful bacteria are hardy, they are
not invincible. Using your home's septic system improperly can weaken and kill
these vital microorganisms, preventing your system from properly processing
waste. This can cause a variety of serious problems inside your septic tank and
may leave it clogged with solid matter that can no longer be processed into
safe, liquid form.
Fortunately, by following a few simple rules, you can keep
the bacteria in your septic tank healthy and ensure that the waste and sewage
you dispose of is properly processed. Keep the following guidelines in mind
whenever you use your system.
1. Be Careful With Antibacterial Cleaners
If you use bleaches, antibacterial dish soap, or other harsh
chemicals to keep your home clean and sterile, you should try to prevent these
chemicals from entering your septic system as much as possible. If
antibacterial agents enter the tank, they can cause severe damage to the
bacteria contained within and may kill them off entirely.
This doesn't mean you should avoid cleaning your home, but
any antibacterial agents you do use should not be disposed of via your toilet
or drains. If you have no other option, diluting the chemicals with water as
you flush them will help to weaken and neutralize their antibacterial properties.
In addition, you should also try to avoid using
antibacterial liquids to clean yourself. Small amounts of antibacterial hand
soap or shower gel shouldn't cause a problem, but using these products on a
frequent basis can gradually weaken the bacteria inside your tank.
2. Be Smart With Medications
Septic tank bacteria can also suffer severe damage if they
come into contact with certain types of medications, especially antibiotic
medications.
If you need to dispose of surplus medications after
recovering from an illness, never flush them down the toilet or any other
drains connected to your septic system. Topical treatments, such as anti-fungal
creams for skin conditions, should also be kept well away from the septic
system.
3. Be Wary Of Moistened Wipes
Many people use moistened wipes in the restroom, either in
addition to or instead of conventional toilet paper. However, these wipes
should be avoided by households that use septic tank systems, as they cannot be
effectively processed by bacteria and are frequently impregnated with
antibacterial agents.
4. Avoid Additives
Many companies sell septic tank additives, which contain
bacteria, enzymes and other substances which supposedly boost the effectiveness
of the bacteria inside your tank. However, most septic tank experts consider
these additive to be a waste of time and money. A properly maintained septic
tank will naturally accumulate beneficial bacteria with time and use.
In some cases, introducing additives to your septic tank can
do more harm than good. A variety of different bacterial species can be found
in the average septic tank. If any of the bacteria or enzymes contained within
the additives are incompatible with these species, they can quickly kill off
the preexisting bacteria inside the tank, leading to serious problems with
waste processing.
5. Repair Leaks and Breaks Swiftly
If your septic system springs a leak or an inflow pipe
starts to degrade due to corrosion, bacteria and fungus from the soil outside
the system can start to colonize the inside of your septic tank. These unwanted
microorganisms can have harmful effects on the helpful bacteria inside the
tank, so any breaches in the system must be repaired ASAP by a professional
septic tank repair service.
Follow these basic rules, and the bacteria inside your
septic tank are guaranteed a long and useful life. If you have any more
questions about how to maintain your septic system, contact the experts at Allen Septic Tank Service
today.
