Septic Tank Additives

There are two main classifications of septic tank additives: chemical and biological. Organic and inorganic compounds are included in chemical additives. In biological additives, dead chickens, bacteria, yeast and enzymes are included.

Septic tank owners choose the addition of additives for many reasons. Some believe it helps to improve the settling through the tank, or helps the system with the digestion of biosolids; dissolve a clog in the soil absorption system or to break up scum buildup within the tank. The main reason homeowners choose to use additives in their septic tank systems is to rejuvenate a system that is stressed by detergents and anti-bacterials, increase the settleability of solids in the septic tank or to liquefy solids within the tank. With many of these additives containing enzymes they can be purchased through septic tank suppliers, chemical companies, and home hardware stores.

About Septic Tank Additives

Although septic tank additives have been researched extensively over the past 40 years, there is still debate over their effectiveness. The reason for the mixed reports is simply because of the number of additives on today's market and an un-established standardized method of testing all of these additives.

Independent researchers and additive manufacturers then make the situation more complicated by trying to define what effects are considered to be beneficial and which are considered to be detrimental. The two sides debate whether increasing the anaerobic decomposition process is actually beneficial in septic systems.

Is It Necessary to Include Additives in Your Septic System

No. It is not necessary when the septic system is properly designed and properly maintained and operated. The bacteria that these additives introduce to the septic tank are already found in human fecal matter. Some believe that the addition of dead chickens, yeast, raw mince etc. should produce the same bacteria, which the human faeces already have, and should be added to the septic tank. Why waste your time? If the proper bacteria are already in fecal matter why add more bacteria.

Caustic Soda and sulphuric acid are chemical additives that homeowners should not use. Additives must be used cautiously as they will permanently change the characteristics of the soil absorption system, may cause groundwater contamination and destroy the bacterial population in the septic tank. While manufacturers of biological additives often times promote these products with claims that through regular use they will restore the bacterial balance in the septic tank, that is not so, as the bacteria are already present in the human faeces.

However, there are certain circumstances that the homeowner may need to use the addition of biological additives. For example, if a lot of harsh chemicals such as bleach or paint thinners have been added to the system then the bacterial population should be replenished. However, you should always empty the tank first and refill with clean water.

While some manufacturers claim that additives help to regulate the septic tank when used as a regular maintenance tool, this is not so. Regular septic tank pumping and scheduled maintenance is necessary with or without the use of septic tank additives.

The only way to solve the debate will be through independent and unbiased research studies conducted by additive manufacturers, research centers and universities. It will be then, that the consumer will have conclusive information on to the effectiveness of septic additives and their limitations.

Here at Biorock-UK we do not recommend the use of these septic tank additives in the Biorock settlement tank.