Does a Septic System Need Bacteria Added?

In most cases, a septic system does not need additional bacteria added to function properly. A healthy septic tank naturally maintains the right balance of bacteria to break down waste, as long as it’s used correctly and not exposed to harmful chemicals.

How Bacteria Work in a Septic System

Bacteria are essential for breaking down organic matter in the septic tank. They digest solids, reduce sludge buildup, and help clarify the effluent before it flows to the drain field. These bacteria come from the waste that enters the system—mainly from human waste and organic materials flushed down drains.

When Bacteria Additives Are Not Necessary

If your septic system is working properly and you avoid harsh chemicals, the bacteria population will sustain itself naturally. You typically don’t need to add bacteria if:

  • The system is regularly pumped and maintained.
  • You don’t use excessive bleach, disinfectants, or antibacterial cleaners.
  • There are no signs of slow breakdown or odor issues.

When Bacteria Additives Might Help

In some situations, bacterial additives can be beneficial:

  • After pumping, to help reestablish bacterial balance.
  • After using antibiotics or harsh chemicals, which can kill beneficial bacteria.
  • In systems that have been unused for long periods, where bacterial activity may have declined.

If you choose to use an additive, select one that’s approved for septic systems and free of harsh chemicals or enzymes that could harm the system.

What to Avoid

  • Chemical additives that claim to dissolve sludge or unclog systems can damage the tank and drain field.
  • Excessive use of additives can disrupt the natural bacterial balance.
  • Flushing non-biodegradable materials (wipes, grease, feminine products) harms bacterial activity and clogs the system.

Most septic systems do not require added bacteria to function effectively. The natural waste entering the tank provides all the bacteria needed for proper treatment. Additives may help in specific cases, but regular pumping, careful water use, and avoiding harsh chemicals are far more important for keeping your septic system healthy and efficient.

THINGS THAT SHOULD NEVER GO IN YOUR SEPTIC TANK

  • Grease
  • Rags and strings
  • Coffee grounds
  • Paper towels
  • Baby wipes
  • Sanitary napkins and tampons
 
  • Diapers
  • Cigarette butts
  • Antibacterial soaps
  • Trash
  • Condoms
  • Bandages
  • Dental Floss
  • Cat Litter
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Other non-degradable products

REDUCE EMERGENCY SEPTIC SERVICES WITH MAINTENANCE

You can do your part to keep your septic tank healthy and reduce the frequency of septic tank pumping with s septic service plan and preventative maintenance. First, don’t put anything down your septic system that is non-biodegradable, such as cigarette butts, diapers, paper towels, and more. Plus, installing an effluent filter, which helps to decrease the number of solids that leave the tank helps promote your septic tank’s health.

24/7 EMERGENCY SEPTIC SERVICES NEAR YOU

We service the Northern Ohio area; are service area includes Ashland, Lorain, Wayne, Portage, Summit, Stark and Medina Counties. Our family-owned septic company is the one to call for all of your emergency septic tank services, including septic tank pumping. We can work around your schedule when it’s convenient for you, including working on weekends and evenings. Our team offers efficient septic tank pumping, so we take up as little of your time as possible. We take our time to ensure your septic tank looks good and is in good shape for the future. Rest assured, when you partner with our local, family-owned septic company, your Northern Ohio home or business will be well served. Call to get started today!

We Strive to be the Best Septic Cleaning Company!

We aim to be the best septic services and septic cleaning company. Please leave us a review and let us know how we did.