Should You Buy Septic Tank Additives?

Some products make promises that are too good to be true—”eat while losing weight,” “a lightbulb that won’t burn out for years,” and “helps prevent septic backups.” That last promise can cost you more than just the product itself. Maybe you have heard great things about septic tank additives. Should you buy septic tank additives? Read on, and you be the judge.

What Are the Effects of Septic Tank Additives?

Additives for septic systems often come under scrutiny because their effectiveness and impact on septic system health can be questionable at best, and in some cases, they might even cause harm. Here’s why relying on a professional septic service is generally recommended overusing additives:

Septic Additives Can Disrupt the Balance of Microbial Life

Septic systems work by relying on natural bacteria to break down waste. Some additives claim to boost the system’s efficiency by introducing additional bacteria. However, the septic tank already contains the bacteria necessary to break down waste. Additives can disrupt the balance of microbial life, potentially leading to less effective waste treatment and harming the system in the long run.

Chemical Additives Can Damage Your Septic Tank

Chemical-based additives can corrode septic tank components and piping and kill the beneficial bacteria essential for the waste decomposition process. It can lead to a malfunctioning system, requiring more frequent and costly repairs or even a complete system replacement. In other words, your septic system will back up into your home and must be replaced.

Septic Tank Additives Can Foster a False Sense of Security

Regular use of additives might give homeowners a false sense of security, leading them to neglect necessary maintenance practices like regular pumping and inspections. Over time, solids can build up in the tank, leading to blockages, system failures, or the need for premature system replacement.

Septic Tank Additives May Be Bad for the Environmental

Some additives can cause harm beyond the septic system, affecting groundwater and surrounding ecosystems. Chemicals that leach into the soil can contaminate water sources, harm wildlife, and pose risks to human health.

Septic Systems Regulatory Compliance

Many Central Florida Counties have environmental agencies that govern septic system maintenance and care. Using additives not approved by local health or environmental agencies can result in fines or penalties. Professionals are familiar with these regulations and can ensure your system is compliant.

Count On Expertise and Maintenance

Professional septic services offer expertise and experience. They can conduct thorough inspections, identify issues before they become serious problems, and advise on proper maintenance. Regular pumping, inspections, and maintenance by professionals can extend the life of your septic system, ensure it operates efficiently, and ultimately save money on costly repairs or replacements.

In the big picture, the natural biological processes in a septic tank are sufficient to break down waste, and tampering through additives can disrupt these processes. On the other hand, professional septic services provide the necessary expertise for proper maintenance, ensuring that your system remains effective and compliant with local regulations. This approach helps maintain the longevity and efficiency of your septic system and protects the environment and public health.

Don’t Use Septic Tank Additives, Choose Lakeland Septic

Don’t use questionable septic tank additives to keep your septic system working; choose Lakeland Septic’s expertise instead. If you are in the Lakeland or Polk County areas, call us at 863-738-0504 or use our online contact form. One of our staff will happily schedule our septic technicians to come out and service your septic system.