No independent study or University has found that additives (chemical or biological) are beneficial to your septic system. Some may even do harm. Your septic tank, and waste going into the tank, contains plenty of bacteria (and nutrients to feed that bacteria). To find out more about septic tanks at my website
http://www.septicdesign.com/septic-lingo/septic-tank/ I suppose there are so many additives on the market because people buy them. Apparently, there’s a lot of money to be made inventing and selling these products.
Your tank needs to be pumped (cleaned) every three to five years. The sludge level in your tank should be measured prior to regular pumping.
This can be done with a Sludge Judge. The pumper, using the “Judge”, can then estimate how often your tank needs to be cleaned.
The life of your septic absorption field is a function of the amount and strength of the wastewater that you put into it. Have your tank cleaned as needed and reduce your flow by using water saving devices (i.e. low flow shower heads, front load washing machines, etc.). Also, forgo garbage disposals (or use them as rarely as needed).
Don’t use antibacterial products (but alcohol based products aren’t too bad).
These are the best ways to keep your new or existing system up and running. All septic absorption fields have a life span but with proper care, you can be sure to get the longest life possible out of your system.
http://www.septicdesign.com/homeowners/septic-care/
