All You Need to Know About Septic Tank Bacteria

In this article, Rooter Man Plumbing discusses what you should know about septic tank bacteria and why we are the go-to septic company. Whether you’re in need of septic tank installation or septic tank cleaning, we are the septic company you can count on.

What Is The Role Of Septic Tank Bacteria?

The bacteria in a septic tank digest the organic waste that enters the tank, transforming it into harmless byproducts. Without these bacteria, the waste in the tank would not be able to break down and be released into the drainfield. However, they can’t feed on inorganic substances such as baby wipes, cotton swabs, paper towels, and feminine hygiene products. Non-flushable items can reduce the number of septic tank bacteria and lead to septic failure. That’s why you should only flush human waste and toilet paper. Anything else doesn’t belong in your septic tank.

What Happens Without Enough Septic Tank Bacteria?

There are a couple main culprits that can reduce the beneficial bacteria in your septic tank, including harmful chemicals, overloading the system, and flushing inappropriate items. As we’ve already highlighted, septic tank bacteria break down the organic waste in the tank. Low levels of these bacteria would interfere with the proper breakdown of waste and cause several problems.

The solid waste will build up to a level where it blocks the inlet and outlet pipes, resulting in clogs and backups. Moreover, the waste that isn’t broken down properly will start to decompose anaerobically and produce unpleasant odors around your home. You’ll know there’s a problem with waste breakdown if you notice unpleasant smells wafting from your drains.

As solids accumulate due to slow breakdown, they reduce the tank’s capacity, thereby necessitating more frequent septic tank pumping. If the system gets overwhelmed and the waste isn’t treated properly, partially treated effluent can reach the drainfield. This will harm the environment and contaminate water sources. As a homeowner, you don’t want this to happen, so it’s important to ensure there are healthy levels of bacteria in your septic tank.

Signs You Need More Bacteria in Your Septic Tank

• Faster than usual septic tank pumping
• Foul odors around your drains or outside near the septic tank
• Slow-draining toilets, sinks, and tubs
• Backed-up drains
• Sewage alarms
• History of septic tank abuse

If you’re experiencing any of these signs, it means that your septic tank needs to be inspected. Call a reputable septic company to perform a comprehensive inspection and identify the source of the trouble. Experienced septic technicians are equipped with state-of-the-art tools and have the know-how to pinpoint what is reducing the number of bacteria.

How to Increase Bacteria in Septic Tank Naturally

• Add 3-4 rotten tomatoes to your septic tank through garbage disposal.
• Flush ½ a cup of dry baking yeast down your toilet every three months.
• Minimize water usage to avoid overloading your septic system.
• Schedule regular septic tank pumping to remove the excess sludge.
• Reach out to a trusted septic company for septic tank repair when you notice signs of septic trouble.
• Avoid using septic tank additives, as they could disrupt the functioning of your septic tank.

If you’re looking for professional and cost-effective septic services, reach out to Rooter Man Plumbing. We offer a comprehensive range of high-quality services, including septic tank installation, septic tank cleaning, drainfield installation, septic inspections, and many more.