The main question every homeowner should ask before purchasing a septic additive is; do I need an additive, or should I hire a professional for septic tank repair? Different types of additives are used for various reasons, and using the wrong one can compromise the quality of your unit. At Charlotte Septic Pros, we have an experienced and well-trained team of experts ready to provide pertinent information to help you make informed decisions about your septic system.

What Are Septic Tank Additives

All the waste from your home is collected in the septic tank, where solid waste sinks to the bottom and grease rises to the top allowing wastewater to flow to the drain field. If the solid waste can't be broken down, it sinks to the bottom until it is time to pump it out. However, inorganic waste that can't be broken down can build up, causing clogs and other septic-related issues that require professional septic tank repair.

Septic tank additives are used to break down inorganic waste, preventing blockages and water damage caused by the accumulation of solid sludge in the system. Homeowners should keep an eye on the things they flush down the toilet or drains to prevent the buildup of solid waste that bacteria can't break down.

Biological Vs Chemical Septic Additives

There are thousands of different additive products in the market, but they all fall into two categories: chemical and biological chemical additives. While most additives will resolve the problem fast, regular use can cause long-term damage to your septic system. A professional technician from a reputable septic company can help you make the right choice for your septic tank without affecting your health and efficiency.

Chemical additives commonly used to deal with clogs include hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and sulfuric acid. However, most of these additives compromise the structural integrity of your septic system, preventing it from operating at full capacity. If you suspect a clog in the soil absorption system, it is crucial to do more research before introducing chemical additives to your septic system to improve permeability. 

On the other hand, biological additives include yeast, bacteria, and enzymes used to reduce the accumulation of oil, grease, and solid effluents in the septic tank. A significant downside to these products is that some allow solid waste to escape the tank, clogging the drain field. Biological additives can also affect the balance of natural bacteria in the septic tank, affecting the breakdown process that's vital for waste management.

If you detect trouble with your septic system, don't rush to your local store for an additive. Contact us at Charlotte Septic Pros and schedule a consultation with our representatives. We guarantee quality septic tank repair and maintenance at competitive market rates.