Tips And Ideas On How To Home Produced Septic Tank Additives
Thursday May 24, 2012 1:55am

Septic tank additives can be defined as substances that are added to a system so as to degrade the solid matter therein. Typically, they are meant to speed up the process of degradation. When buying, it is always advisable to buy additives that are eco-friendly. By and large, these products are available at local stores but can also be prepared using common house hold products.

In America a good number of families use septic tanks for waste water disposal. Statistics place the numbers at over twenty million. This mode of handling human waste is not only effective; it is cheap in the long run. Handling such systems is hazardous and as such, it is advisable to wear safety clothing such as gloves and goggles every time you make contact. Also, consultation with professionals when upgrading or repairing is wise.

Vinegar is an effective cleaning agent and at the same time very friendly to the environment. Unlike caustic soda, chlorinated bleach and detergents, vinegar does not kill bacteria that help degrade solid matter in the septic system. In fact, it assists the decay bacterium in decomposition of the solid matter which basically goes a long way in keeping the system healthy.

Apart from vinegar, you could also use yeast as an additive. This compound generally helps bacteria grow. Using it is your system will go a long way in increasing the number of decay bacteria and consequently more degradation of solid waste. Typically, yeast is used to raise dough, baking bread and also fermentation. Pouring a bowl of water mixed with yeast every once in awhile down the drain is advisable.

Baking soda in an effective washing agent and eco-friendly additive you could use. Like vinegar, baking soda is gentle on the decay bacteria unlike detergents, caustic soda and chlorinated bleaches. Baking soda is basic in nature and thus has a way of reducing the potential hydrogen of the tank's contents.

It is advisable to only allow degradable waste to go down the drain. Washing down paper towels, napkins or debris of any kind is never advisable because it causes strain on the bacteria decomposing the waste matter. Of importance to note is that not all toilet paper can be used in septic systems, always make sure that you are using a suitable one; usually it is indicated on the label.

Another thing that can affect the decay bacterium is antibacterial soap; using it to wash basically will kill bacteria in what you are washing and also down the system. Usually, using regular soap for bathing is advisable. Also, chlorinated bleaches are not advisable to use since they will strain your system.

A mixture of sugar, hot water and vinegar can be very helpful. It is advisable to Pour this mixture down the drain at least once every six months. Basically, this helps bacteria grow and increases their activity. This will go along way in degrading the solid layer and keep the system at minimum levels. This mixture is considered as one of the best homemade septic tank additives.