Septic tank backups can occur whenever there is a lack of bacteria present. When there is no bacteria to break down the solid waste, the septic tanks will fill up quickly and the drains can become clogged. Use our guide below to naturally increase the amount of bacteria in your septic tank.
Why Should You Increase Bacteria In Your Septic Tank Naturally?
Natural bacteria present in the septic tank will break down solids, ensuring that the tank doesn’t get full too soon. Natural bacteria will also improve your septic tank’s health and balance pH levels.
With a lack of natural bacteria, you are more likely to experience clogging or the need to pump the tank more often than usual.
Signs The Septic Tank Needs More Bacteria
If your septic tank has a lack of bacteria present, you may experience the following:
- A foul smell may be coming from outside the home or the drains.
- Standing water in the yard.
- Backed-up toilets and drains.
- The tank is filling up sooner than every 3-5 years.
- Toilets and sinks drain slowly.
- Fresh green grass surrounding the tank or above the septic lines.
How To Increase Bacteria In A Septic Tank Naturally
There are two main ingredients that can increase the amount of bacteria in your septic tank. These are yeast and rotten tomatoes. Rotten tomatoes typically work better than yeast. The experts suggest avoiding any septic tank additives, as they can harm the system.
Flush Yeast Down The Toilet
Some experts suggest adding yeast to the septic tank in order to increase enzyme health in the tank. Yeast will never harm your system.
Tyr pouring 1/4 ounce of dry baking yeast into the toilet and flushing it. You can do this once every few months or even up to once a month. Avoid adding any extra yeast to the system, as this can cause frothing. The additional gases from the yeast can keep solid waste from settling at the bottom.
Put Rotten Tomatoes Through The Garbage Disposal
Decaying or rotten tomatoes have been known to increase bacteria in a septic tank by breaking down pectin and plant cell walls. Try to add three rotten tomatoes at once.
Put the tomatoes in your garbage disposal one at a time, then run the water while using the disposal. Allow the disposal to process the tomatoes and pass them through completely. You can do this every three months when needed.
Increasing Bacteria DIY Vs Professional Septic Service
You can add yeast and/or rotten tomatoes to increase bacteria without professional help. However, unclogging or pumping the tank is a different story. It’s best to hire local professionals when needing to complete this challenging task. The pros will assess the situation, unclog the tank, and give you tips to prevent any issues in the future.
Septic System Types In The Greater Phoenix Area
Choosing the right septic system for your home or business is a number one priority. Depending on the landscape and surrounding areas, septic system types will differ greatly from one another. Contact A-American Septic Service or call 602-254-5448 today to discuss which type of septic system will work best for your application and help with septic tank design & Installation.
