Septic tanks have been around for a long time. They provide an excellent way to dispose of wastewater. However, if the bacteria levels in your septic tank are not sufficient, then you will experience problems with your septic system. Fortunately, there are some easy ways that you can increase the bacterial levels in your septic tank so that it works better!

How Important Is Septic Tank Bacteria

Bad bacteria might be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of “bacteria,” but there are also good ones! There’s one type in particular called “anaerobic” and it helps keep a septic system running smoothly.

The anaerobic bacteria in the septic tank breaks down any waste that isn’t flushed directly into a treatment plant and makes it easier to treat downstream. When there are too few or no bacteria, solids can stick together and form clumps of sludge (called “slime”) which sticks to pipes and gradually blocks them up.

There are two main types of bacteria that can contaminate your septic system:

The first type is aerobic, and the second type is anaerobic. Aerobic organisms require oxygen in order to survive; they need a continuous supply of air from outside sources for these purposes. Anaerobes don’t do well with too much exposure to light or fresh air (like when you flush).

The bacteria in your septic tank are actually the main reason sewage systems work, and it’s important to maintain them. If there is too much sludge buildup or if something blocks their way out of the system (like hair), then your pipes will clog up over time. This can cause problems because you’ll have a backup every time.

What Can You Do To Increase The Good Bacteria In Your Septic Tank?

There are some things that you can do (and avoid doing) and there are also some types of products that you can use to help increase the amount of good bacteria in your septic system.

What To Do

  • Flush 1/2 cup of dry baking yeast down your toilet every 3 months. This will promote the growth of good bacteria.
  • Another natural solution is to put 3 to 4 tomatoes that are past their prime (rotten tomatoes) into your garbage disposal every 3 months.
  • Keep up with proper maintenance of your septic tank. Read more about that here.

What To Avoid

  • Do not use bleach in your toilet or drains or anywhere that will put that bleach into your septic tank. Bleach destroys bacterias in your septic system.
  • Never put non-flushable items (like tampons) down your toilet.
  • Avoid putting these in your garbage disposal: fats, grease, cooking oils, meat of any kind (raw or cooked)

Types Of Products To Use

Septic tank additives are being used to add bacteria to the septic system but not all plumbers agree that this is a good solution. Speak to your plumber about what he/she recommends for your system.

By keeping your septic system bacteria levels high, you will help your septic tank dispose of the sewage in a timely manner.

If you have any questions about your septic system or are having some problems with it, call Atlantis Plumbing today at 770-443-8229. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.