Septic Tank Treatment-Should Additives Be Used?

The beneficial effects of biological additives on a septic system are constantly debated.
However, research conducted by Winneberger suggests that some biological additives may increase the biological activity to the point where excess solids can be carried into the soil absorption system. This occurs when the anaerobic decomposition of solids causes the formation of methane gas. As they rise, bubbles push solids up from the settled portion of the septic tank, ultimately leading to “carryover” to the soil absorption system where clogging can ensue.

Contrary to the ability of enzymatic products to reduce scum, the effects of degradation in the scum layer are believed to be detrimental to a soil absorption system. The scum layer “holds” fats, grease, and floatables, preventing their escape to the soil absorption system. Enzymatic products can “break up” this scum layer and increase its mobility, allowing it to enter the soil absorption system.

Some chemical additivesthat have been used in septic systems include hydrogen peroxide, sulfuric acid, formaldehyde, baking soda, and alum. J. Harkin proposed that hydrogen peroxide could be used to restore the infiltrative capacity of a failed or clogged soil absorption system. However, it was also reported from another study that hydrogen peroxide could agitate soils containing fines (clayey and loamy soil), destroying the soil structure, thereby decreasing the soil’s permeability.

A number of products sold over-the-counter for soil absorption systems and clogged drain pipes contain sulfuric acid, which is highly corrosive in concentrated form. This could affect the microbial population in the septic tank and soil absorption system, and contribute to structural weakness when applied directly to a concrete tank. The use of sulfuric acid might result in severe burns if it comes into contact with human skin.

It should be noted that the federal government does not control the use and disposal of hazardous substances in small quantities purchased from supermarkets. Additives used to control odor by controlling excessive anaerobic growth may contain formaldehyde, par formaldehyde, quaternary ammonium, and zinc sulfate as active ingredients. Although these chemicals are biodegradable with dilution, they are biocidal at full strength.

Organic chemicals used in additives include organic solvents or surfactants that have been reformulated to make the product safe for the environment. Even at these approved safe levels, naphthalene’s, alkenes, and benzenes, sometimes used as ingredients in portable toilet cleaners and deodorizers, are significant pollutants, and should not be added to a septic system.

No Additives Needed…

A homeowner does not need to add a stimulator or an enhancer to a septic tank that is designed, operated, and maintained properly—naturally occurring bacteria are already present within human fecal matter. Contrary to popular belief, yeast, dead chickens, possums, or raw hamburger do not need to be added to the septic tank.
Chemical additives, such as caustic hydroxides and sulfuric acid, should never be added to a septic system. Adding these products will destroy the bacterial population in the septic tank, change the permeability characteristics of the soil absorption system, and may cause groundwater contamination. Often, manufacturers of biological additives market their use to restore the bacterial balance in a septic tank on a monthly basis as part of a routine maintenance program. This is not necessary because these bacteria already reside in human feces.

Conclusion…

Claims made on the effectiveness of additives to either eliminate pumping of a septic tank or restore permeability of the soil absorption system are unsubstantiated. No product will allow a homeowner to escape a regular septic tank pumping and maintenance schedule.

The debate on the issue of using an additive can be resolved only through a cooperative research effort from independent/unbiased researchers (such as universities and research centers) and additive manufacturers to determine their true effectiveness and reveal their limitations.