When it comes to personal health, it’s common for people to take vitamins or other supplements. These products prevent nutritional deficiencies so we can live our best.
You may be surprised to learn the same approach should be taken with your septic system. Today, we’re going to talk about how adding enzymes can help keep your septic system as healthy and effective as possible.
What is a Septic System?
As a homeowner, you may already be familiar with septic systems. These are underground tanks that separate solid waste from wastewater and store it until it can be disposed of properly. The primary function is to keep hazardous materials away from drinking water sources, which is why it’s so important for these systems to be properly maintained. If a septic system fails, it can contaminate drinking water, ruin property, and cause a huge mess.
How a Septic System Works
With a septic system, anything that goes down a drain in your home ends up in the septic tank on your property. Inside the tank, organic solid material is collected and slowly broken down into a liquid so it can be released into the drain field. This natural decomposing process is possible thanks to bacteria. Yes, we know that bacteria are usually considered “bad.” But this bacteria is very helpful and necessary to the ecosystem of the septic system.
The problem is when you introduce chemicals that kill or disrupt the bacteria from doing their job inside the septic tank. Here’s just a short list of substances you should avoid putting down a systemic system:
- Liquid drain cleaners
- Pesticides
- Chlorine
- Cooking grease or oil
- Bleach
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Gasoline
- Paint
- Medications
What Are Septic System Enzymes?
Enzymes basically give the bacteria in your septic tank a boost. They come in a liquid or packet that you flush down the toilet so it reaches the septic tank. They help make it easier for bacteria to break down organic material. Some enzyme products may include extra nutrients or even new bacteria.
Benefits of Adding Enzymes to Your Septic System
Keeping the bacteria healthy allows your septic tank to operate as it should. Without the bacteria, it will take the organic waste in the tank longer to break down. This will mean that you will have to have the tank pumped more frequently. Or you risk having a septic backup, which can be a major health hazard.
Even if you are very careful about what you put down the drain in your home, it’s not a bad idea to periodically add enzymes. Of course, these treatments do not replace regular maintenance or tank pumping.
Septic Tank Maintenance
Your septic tank is one of the most important components of your home. It works round the clock to dispose of your household waste in a safe and effective manner. To keep it functioning at its best, you should always avoid putting anything down the drain that can harm the bacteria inside the tank. Additionally, you should get it inspected on a regular basis and serviced after a few years. Failure to do so can lead to:
- Backup of sewage or drain water in your toilets: If you neglect your septic tank too long, it may not be able to break down all of the waste coming in. This can cause an overflow that backs up into your home’s drains and toilets.
- Excessive flooding in your yard: No one wants to deal with a flooded yard. If your septic tank is not functioning properly, it can cause the system’s water to overflow and end up in your lawn or driveway.
- Contaminated groundwater: If the septic system is not properly maintained, untreated sewage can leach out from its tanks and affect local groundwater or even your well water.
- Bad sewage odors: Holding your nose is not the solution. If you smell bad odors coming from your septic tank, it’s a sign that the system is not working as it should and needs to be serviced.
- Damage to your property: Your home is a major investment that should be protected. Sadly, even a minor septic system failure can cause significant damage to your property and cost you thousands of dollars in repairs. You shouldn’t let that happen.
With regular care, you can be sure that your septic system will continue to run effectively for years
What Are The Benefits of Septic Tank Maintenance?
Here are some of the reasons why it’s important to keep your septic tank maintained:
Protects Your Health
Lack of maintenance can lead to sewage backup in your house and yard. This can expose you and your family to health risks due to exposure to untreated waste. If you have a well, it could also be contaminated with bacteria and other pollutants from untreated sewage.
Protects The Environment
A malfunctioning septic system can cause contamination of nearby streams, rivers, and groundwater supplies. This can lead to a public health hazard that affects everyone in the community. By keeping your septic tank maintained, you help protect the environment from this risk.
Saves Money
Septic tank maintenance is much cheaper than dealing with repairs or septic tank replacement due to clogs, leaks, or other issues. Regular maintenance will help prolong the life of your septic tank and save you money in the long run.
Improves The Value of Your Property
A well-maintained septic tank adds value to your property. Some buyers insist on a septic tank inspection and proof of maintenance before they purchase a home. If your septic tank is not functioning properly, it could become a deal-breaker for potential buyers.
Septic tank maintenance is essential for a safe and healthy home environment. With the right care and regular maintenance, you can ensure that your septic system will continue to do its job properly and safely. Adding enzymes to your septic system helps keep it operating optimally by supporting the bacteria inside the tank.
Septic System Service in New Haven And Fairfield Counties
If you have any questions about adding enzymes to your septic system or need service on your septic tank, call the professionals at Rick’s Plumbing. We’ve been serving Milford and surrounding areas since 1992. Call us today at 203-874-6629.