What is the best thing to put in your septic tank to keep it clean?

The best way to keep your septic tank clean and functioning efficiently is to nurture and maintain a healthy population of beneficial bacteria within the system. These microorganisms are crucial for breaking down solid waste and preventing clogs, ensuring your septic system operates effectively.

While various commercial products exist, natural and homemade solutions focus on providing an optimal environment for these essential bacteria.

Nurturing Beneficial Bacteria

A key aspect of a healthy septic system is its ability to break down waste naturally. This process relies heavily on the anaerobic bacteria present in the tank. To support these bacteria, you can occasionally introduce substances that serve as a food source for them.

One natural approach involves a homemade solution designed to feed these vital microbes. The ingredients commonly include:

• Water
• Sugar
• Cornmeal
• Dry Yeast

Homemade Septic Tank Treatment Steps

To prepare a beneficial bacterial stimulant using this natural method:

1. Boil water: Begin by boiling approximately a half gallon of water.
2. Add sugar: Stir in 2 cups of sugar. The sugar serves as an immediate and primary food source for the existing bacteria in your septic tank, encouraging their growth and activity.
3. Integrate other ingredients: While the exact complete preparation and application of cornmeal and dry yeast within this specific solution can vary, the general principle is to combine them with the sugar-water mixture. Dry yeast introduces more bacteria, and cornmeal provides additional organic matter for them to consume.
4. Application: Once prepared, this mixture is typically flushed down a toilet. It then travels to your septic tank, where it helps to re-energize the bacterial population.

This method helps ensure the bacteria have ample food to efficiently break down organic matter, reducing sludge buildup and promoting better system performance.

Beyond Additives: Comprehensive Septic System Care

While bacterial supplements can be helpful, maintaining a clean and healthy septic tank also heavily depends on daily habits and regular maintenance.

What to Avoid Putting Down Your Drains

To prevent clogs and ensure the longevity of your septic system, it's crucial to be mindful of what goes down your drains and toilets.

Harmful Substances to Avoid:

• Harsh Chemicals: Bleach, drain cleaners, disinfectants, and excessive amounts of laundry detergents can kill beneficial bacteria in your septic tank, disrupting its natural breakdown process.
• Non-Biodegradable Items: Items like wet wipes (even "flushable" ones), paper towels, feminine hygiene products, dental floss, cotton swabs, and cat litter do not break down in the tank and can cause severe clogs.
• Grease and Oils: Cooking grease, fats, and oils solidify in the pipes and tank, leading to blockages and sludge accumulation.
• Medications: Prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications can harm the bacterial environment.
• Food Scraps: While some food waste from a garbage disposal is manageable, excessive amounts can overwhelm the system and contribute to sludge buildup.

Smart Septic System Practices

Adopting good habits is just as important as any additive.

• Water Conservation: Reduce your water usage to prevent overwhelming your septic system. Distribute water usage throughout the day rather than doing all laundry or showering at once.
• Regular Pumping: Have your septic tank professionally pumped every 3-5 years, depending on household size and tank capacity. This removes the accumulated sludge and scum layers that cannot be broken down by bacteria.
• Drainfield Protection: Avoid driving or parking vehicles on your drainfield, as this can compact the soil and damage the pipes, impairing drainage.
• Landscaping: Plant only grass over the drainfield area. Avoid planting trees or shrubs with deep roots near the septic system, as roots can invade pipes and cause damage.

Septic System Do's and Don'ts

By focusing on fostering a healthy bacterial environment and practicing responsible waste disposal and maintenance, you can keep your septic tank clean and ensure its long-term functionality.