Is Drano Safe for Septic Systems? The Science vs. The Marketing

Rid-X isn’t a “magical” solution, but it isn’t “snake oil” either. When asking does Rid-X work or the pros and cons of Rid-X it is important to understand that it is a solution that works best under specific conditions.

What does Rid-X do? It is an enzymatic and bacterial supplement designed to aid in waste breakdown. By understanding Rid-X reviews and how the product is being used versus how it should be used to boost the good bacteria in a septic system can help you determine how does Rid-X work and is Rid-X good for septic systems.

What Does Rid-X Do and How Does it Work?

Before purchasing a box, it is helpful to understand exactly how Rid-X works. Rid-X septic is designed to provide a dose of active bacteria into your septic tank. Once the live bacteria has been activated it works to start breaking waste down.

The product contains:

• cellulase (for paper)

• lipase (for fats/grease)

• protease (for protein)

• amylase (for starch)

What does Rid-X do then to help your system? It uses enzymes to help break down the solids by encouraging good bacteria growth that will help reduce sludge levels and sludge buildup.

The Pros of Using Rid-X for Your Septic Tank

We have all made the mistake of panicking when a line appears clogged or have gotten into spring cleaning where you start sanitizing anything and everything from the germ infested winter months. If you found yourself using Drano, bleach or too much of a cleaning product, Rid-X can help jumpstart the colony of bacteria in your septic tank.

It contains enzymes in the product which target specific waste that can deemed difficult to breakdown especially grease and fat which is a common culprit for disrupting the septic system. Once you realize your septic system needs a little assistance Rid-X is easy to find and use compared to industrial-grade professional treatments. You can quickly find the product locally or online and it is easy to add to the septic system.

Natural Bacteria vs. Rid-X: Does Your Tank Already Have What It Needs?

Deciding whether to use Rid-X starts with determining if your system actually needs it. A well maintained and functioning septic system does not need the assistance of Rid-X. Human waste naturally contains the bacteria needed for a septic tank to thrive and function properly.

However, if you find that your system is experiencing thick sludge, unpleasant odor, or you went a little overboard with cleaning products you may find it beneficial to add a dose. Rid-X provides a high concentration of specific enzymes that might be lacking if the household uses many harsh cleaning products. It is important to keep in mind that Rid-X is a supplement, not a replacement for the naturally occurring bacteria.

The Cons: Why Rid-X Isn’t a Substitute for Maintenance

Crucially, Rid-X is never a substitute for proper septic maintenance. People tend to think using Rid-X means they don’t have to pump or maintain their system. This misconception may lead to system failure or costly repairs.

Although Rid-X provides good bacteria to break things down, too much of a good thing is no longer good. Too much good bacteria can cause the breakdown of solids too quickly without allowing them to settle. The small particles can then flow into the drain field and clog the discharge lines. Before adding a dose it is important to ask yourself, should I use Rid-X and will your system benefit or be harmed by the product. You must not view additives as a substitute for maintaining your septic system.

The Rid-X Lawsuit and Efficacy Concerns

It is natural to be skeptical of new additives, especially if you have researched the Rid-X lawsuit. The 2014 class-action lawsuit was filed regarding the claims that it “prevents” backups or avoids the need for pumping. The lawsuit was not about the product being “bad” but about the marketing of the product being “misleading”.

Anytime you use a new product you must understand the true purpose of it and when in doubt contact a septic professional.

Should I use Rid-X? An Expert Recommendation

Rid-X should be viewed as a supplement, not a comprehensive solution. It should never be a replacement for maintaining your septic system or quick and easy fix for heavy sludge and backups.

It is important for homeowners to remember that a healthy septic system does not need a dose of Rid-X. A well functioning tank will make its own bacteria and continue to thrive under normal conditions.

• The EPA (Septic Tank Additives Fact Sheet) also reiterates the fact that “….additives is not recommended for domestic wastewater treatment because there is already a significant presence of bacteria, enzymes, yeasts, fungi, and other microorganisms in onsite wastewater treatment systems.”

• The University of Arizona’s research paper, Antibacterial Products in Septic Systems, also discusses that “a septic system is very dependent on millions of naturally-occurring bacteria throughout the system…..bacteria typically found in wastewater, our bodies, and other waste materials we dispose of via our septic system.”

Beyond the Box: Better Ways to Care for Your Septic Tank

1. Regular Pumping: The only 100% effective way to remove sludge

2. Professional-Grade Enzymes: We often carry a more concentrated version on trucks (similar to Bio-Clean) than what is at the store.

3. Water Conservation: The best “pro” for a septic tank is not overloading it with water.

When in doubt, always call a septic professional such as Double Flush Septic Services for a “bacterial health checkup”. We are happy to stop out and take a look at your septic tank to let you know if your septic system is thriving or in need of some assistance. The EPA (SepticSmart Education Materials | US EPA) also has a website that provides educational materials via videos and brochures for all homeowners to help provide guidance when caring for your septic system.

Common Questions About Rid-X

Is Rid-X a waste of money?

For a perfectly balanced system, yes. For a system stressed by bleach or heavy paper use, it can provide a temporary boost.

Does Rid-X actually break down solids?

It breaks down organic solids, but it cannot dissolve “un-flushables” or inorganic sludge. You still have to pump.

Can Rid-X replace septic pumping?

No. This was central point in the Rid-X lawsuit. No additive removes the need for physical pumping.

Is Rid-X safe for aerobic septic systems?

This is dependent on your situation. If the system is doing its job than it is not needed. Aerobic systems are highly sensitive with controlled bacterial levels. Introducing high volumes of anaerobic bacteria can disrupt the air-driven treatment process. However, if there is heavy thick sludge and little to no good bacteria a dose of Rid-X will not harm the system.

Can I put Rid-X in a cesspool?

It won’t hurt but cesspools usually fail due to soil “glazing,” which bacteria cannot fix.

For additional Q&A please visit the Healthy Gallatin (WWTSadditives.pdf).