Although your septic tank may appear to be just a quiet, underground system, something is very vital going on inside-the action of bacteria, significant in the decomposition process. It’s essential to understand the role those beneficial bacteria perform so that your septic tank may be taken care of properly and prevent any problems from arising costlier.

In this article, Rooter Man Plumbing will explain what septic tank bacteria do, why they are so important, and most importantly, how you can keep them happy and healthy in your system. Installation of a septic tank to septic tank cleaning, there’s many ways that Rooter Man Plumbing can help with your septic system.

What Do Septic Tank Bacteria Do?

The bacteria in the septic tank break down the organic waste into harmless byproducts that are easily discharged into the drainfield. If not for the bacteria, the wastes would not be degraded as they ought to and the system would fail. They cannot, however, handle inorganic materials, which also include baby wipes, paper towels, and feminine hygiene products; all these decrease bacteria count and clog your system. Only human waste and toilet paper should be flushed to maintain a properly operating septic tank.

What If There Aren’t Sufficient Septic Tank Bacteria?

When bacteria are killed by toxic chemicals, hydraulic overloading, or incorrect disposal, waste cannot be adequately decomposed, and a host of problems results:

Blockages and Backups: Solid wastes accumulate and block intake and outlet pipes.

Nasty Odors: Inadequately decomposed waste generates odors.

More Frequent Pumping: The tank becomes less effective as it fills with solids and requires more frequent septic tank pumping.

Environmental Damage: Wastewater that is not treated will end up in the drainfield and contaminate water supplies, causing damage to the environment.

Signs You Need More Bacteria in Your Septic Tank

If your system is low on bacteria, you may have the following:

More frequent septic tank pumping than usual

Severe odors emanating from drains or around the tank

Toilets, sinks, and tubs draining at a notably slower rate

Back-ups in the drains

Sewage alarms or other warning signals

If you see any of these signs, then it is time to call for an inspection by a professional septic company.

How to Naturally Increase Bacteria in Your Septic Tank

To be able to increase the number of good bacteria inside your septic tank:

Throw 3-4 rotten tomatoes via your garbage disposal.

Pour down a half cup of dry baking yeast down your toilet every quarter.

Be careful not to overload your system by trying not to use too much water.

Schedule regular pumping of a septic tank to remove excessive sludge build-up.

Do not use additives for septic tanks since these disturb the natural functioning of the system.

Rooter-Man Plumbing for Professional Septic Services

If you are experiencing some sort of issue with your septic system, or if you would like to take the necessary steps to ensure that it continues operating in optimal condition, then Rooter Man Plumbing is where you need to turn to for the professional help you require. We can install a septic tank, clean your septic system, install a drainfield system, and perform septic inspections to name a few. Let us help you keep your septic tank functioning at its best.