Is adding bacteria or enzymes in a septic tank beneficial?

How do septic systems work?

The Septic system consists of a septic tank and a leach field. The septic tank holds the solid waste matter and the bacteria work on breaking down the organic matter.

A healthy septic system consists of large colonies of bacteria which do the heavy lifting and break down the organic matter present in the wastewater. Bacteria in the septic tank break down the solid particles into liquid and gas. The grease and oils rise and form a layer of scum at the top while the solid material that bacteria cannot break down settles down at the bottom as a layer of sludge.

The effluent (liquid layer) between the scum and sludge flows to the leach field and enters the soil where the nutrients can be absorbed.

How is waste broken down in the septic tank?

• Large colonies of bacteria thrive in the septic tank
• Bacteria produce enzymes that act as a catalyst to break down organic matter into smaller particles
• Bacteria digest the waste particles and allow the liquid to separate and form the effluent

Under normal conditions, the bacteria can thrive on their own and do not need additives.

Should you add bacteria or enzymes to a septic tank?

There's no magic or quick trick which can help your septic system work better. In a healthy tank, the natural bacteria should be enough to operate the septic tank efficiently. However, if you are putting harmful chemicals down the drain, it can kill the bacteria. Without bacteria, organic waste won’t break down and you will have to get the septic tank pumped more frequently.

Just regular maintenance and pumping of the septic system is sufficient to keep the system working. Septic systems already have enough bacteria to treat the wastewater so adding additional bacteria or enzymes won’t really help. If the tank is not functioning properly as it hasn’t been pumped out or you are flushing things that destroy the healthy bacteria, your best option would be to get professional help.

How to maintain your septic system?

Some ways to maximise the life of your septic system include:

• Conserve water - Use less water as excess water usage can put extra load on the system and overload the naturally occurring bacteria.
• Do not flush harmful materials - If you flush chemicals like paints, solvents, bleach, household cleaners, chlorine, and medicines down the drain they will kill the bacteria and also clog up the system. Only flush toilet paper and waste to keep your system in good condition.
• Regular maintenance - Get the septic system inspected annually by a wastewater specialist. It is also recommended to have the tank pumped every 3-5 years

To learn more about maintaining your septic system, check out the following links:

• Do's and don'ts of septic systems
• Why do septic systems fail?

Your Local Septic System Experts in SE Qld

If you need information about your septic system or if it is not working as expected, get in contact with our wastewater experts.

We provide services throughout South-East Queensland. From design to installation, repairs to maintenance, our experienced professionals can help you with cost-effective solutions for your residential or commercial septic system. Complete our online enquiry form or give us a call at 1300 722 517.