Keeping Your Septic System Healthy Year-Round: The Role of Bacteria

How does a septic system work?

Your septic system consists of two main parts: the septic tank and the drain field.

The septic tank installation is an underground watertight container usually made of concrete, fiberglass, or plastic. Its job is to collect and break down waste and wastewater from your home. This includes everything coming from your toilets, showers, sinks, dishwasher, and washing machine.

Inside the tank, heavier solids settle at the bottom and break down into sludge while lighter materials like oils and grease float to the top as scum. The liquid in the middle – called effluent – flows out into the drain field for further treatment.

Bacteria: The workhorse of your septic tank

Bacteria are naturally present in wastewater and play a vital role in breaking down the waste in your septic tank. They digest and turn organic material into gases, liquid, and a smaller amount of sludge.

Healthy bacteria levels mean your system can handle the waste efficiently. Without enough bacteria, your septic system can’t break down waste properly. This leads to the buildup of solid waste, clogs in the system, unpleasant odors, and potentially expensive septic tank repair.

How to keep your septic system healthy

Since bacteria are integral for your septic system to function, it only makes sense to keep those bacteria alive and well. Here’s how you can maintain a healthy balance:

1. Watch What You Flush: Your toilet is not a trash can, and flushing the wrong items can wreak havoc on your septic system. Only flush pee, poo, and toilet paper.
2. Be Careful with Cleaning Products: Chemical cleaners, bleach, and antibacterial soaps might keep your home spotless, but they can also kill the beneficial bacteria in your septic tank.
3. Use Bacterial Additives (When Necessary): Adding septic-safe bacterial treatments to your system can help replenish beneficial bacteria. Consult a septic professional in Lakeland, FL before using additives.
4. Schedule Regular Inspections and Pumping: Over time, sludge builds up and must be pumped out to prevent it overflowing. A good rule of thumb is to schedule a septic tank pumping once every 3-5 years.

Signs your septic system needs attention

Problems can arise despite your best efforts. Watch for these warning signs that your septic system may need septic tank cleaning or repairs:

1. Slow draining sinks, showers, or toilets.
2. Gurgling noises in your pipes.
3. Unpleasant odors around your tank or drain field.
4. Patches of unusually lush, green grass over your drain field.
5. Backups or sewage overflows in your home.

Call or message Septic Blue if you notice any of these red flags. We can have a septic specialist come out and investigate as soon as possible.