What to Put in Septic Tank to Break Down Solids

If you are like most homeowners, you probably don’t think about your septic tank very often. But, if you want it to work properly, there are a few things that you should put in it on a regular basis.

In this guide, we will discuss what to put in your septic tank to help break down solids.

How Will You Know That the Septic Tank is Full of Solids?

Before we discuss what to put in your septic tank, it is important to understand how you will know when the tank is full of solids.

Here are a few signs that indicate it is time to break down the solids in your septic tank:

1. There is a foul odor coming from the septic tank

This is one of the most obvious signs that the septic tank system is full of solids. If you notice a foul odor coming from the tank, it is important to take action immediately.

2. The drains are slow

Another sign that the septic tank is full of solids is if the drains in your home are slow. This can be a major inconvenience, and it is important to address the issue as soon as possible.

3. The water level in the septic tank is high

If you notice that the water level in your septic tank is high, there is a good chance that the solids are not breaking down properly. This can cause all sorts of problems, so it is important to act quickly and decisively once you’ve noticed this issue.

4. There is sewage backing up into the home

If sewage is backing up into your home, it is a clear sign that the septic tank is full of solids and needs to be cleaned out.

5. The grass over the septic tank is green and lush (this indicates that the tank is not working properly)

If you are seeing green grass over your septic tank, it is a clear sign that something is wrong.

Now that we have discussed some of the signs that indicate the septic tank is full of solids let’s discuss what you can put in the tank to help break down these solids.

What to Put in the Septic Tank to Break Down Solids

There are a few things that you can put in your septic tank to help break down the solids. Here are a few of them:

1. Bacteria additives

There are a number of bacteria additives on the market that can help break down the solids in a septic tank. These additives are typically added to the toilet tank, and they will help to break down the solids in the septic tank over time.

2. Septic tank cleaners

There are also a number of septic tank cleaners on the market that can help break down the solids in your tank. These cleaners come in both liquid and powdered form, and they can be added to the septic tank on a regular basis.

3. Organic solvents

Organic solvents are another great way to break down the solids in your septic tank. These include:

These solvents can be added to the septic tank on a regular basis, and they will help to break down the solids over time.

4. Septic stirring

Septic stirring is another great way to get the job done. This process involves using a large rod or pole to stir the solids in the septic tank, which will help to break them down over time.

5. Backflushing

Backflushing is a process that involves using a large amount of water to flush the solids out of the septic tank. This is typically done on a yearly basis, and it is a great way to keep the septic tank working properly.

6. Biological additives

Biological additives are another great way to break down the solids in your septic tank. These additives contain bacteria that will help to break down the solids in the tank over time.

7. Hydrogen peroxide

This compound was trendy in the past for treating clogged septic tanks. The truth is that it works. It breaks down the solid particles in the tank, and it also kills the bacteria that cause them to form in the first place.

8. Inorganic alkalis and acids

Inorganic alkalis and acids can be used to accomplish this task as well. Inorganic acids and bases are particularly effective at breaking down solids, as well as dissolving greases and oils. Dumping these substances into your septic tank can help keep it running smoothly.

Some common inorganic acids and bases include:

Be sure to check with your local waste management authority before dumping any of these substances into your septic tank.

Causes of Septic Tank Clogs

Now that we have discussed some of the ways to break down the solids in your septic tank let’s discuss some of the causes of septic tank clogs.

One of the most common causes of septic tank clogs is grease and oil. When these substances are dumped into the septic tank, they can solidify and clog the system.

Another common cause of septic tank clogs is paper products, such as toilet paper. When these products are flushed down the toilet or drained into the septic tank, they can form a solid mass that will eventually clog the system.

Finally, roots from trees and shrubs can also cause septic tank clogs. When these roots grow into the septic system, they can cause the pipes to become clogged and blocked.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does septic tank treatment really work?

Yes, septic tank treatment really works. In fact, there are a number of different products on the market that can help break down the solids in your septic tank.

How often should I add septic tank treatments?

It depends on the product that you are using. Some products need to be added on a daily basis, while others only need to be added on a weekly or monthly basis for septic tank maintenance.

Do septic systems need to be pumped?

Yes, a septic system needs to be pumped routinely. Septic tank pumping should be done every two to three years, depending on the size of your tank and how many people are using it.

Is solid waste bad for septic tanks?

Yes, solid waste can be bad for septic tanks. This is because the solids will clog up the tank over time, and prevent it from working properly.

What septic system additives work the best?

A septic tank works best when it contains a mix of different types of bacteria. These bacteria help to break down the solids in the septic tank and keep it running smoothly. It would depend more on your type of tank, and the state it’s in. However, if you’re uncertain as to which product you should use, you can always call a professional to get the situation assessed. That way, you can make a more informed decision.

Now that you know what to put in your septic tank to help break down the solids, you can take action and keep your septic tank running smoothly.

Be sure to check with your local waste management authority before adding any of these substances to your tank. Septic tanks are a vital part of every home’s wastewater management system, and it is important to keep them running properly in order to avoid sewage backups or other mishaps.