This is one of the questions we get all the time: “Should I be using septic additives?”
Here’s my honest answer: No, you shouldn’t.
I get why people ask. There’s a lot of marketing out there claiming these products will save you money or keep your septic system running better. Unfortunately, most of those claims are total nonsense. In fact, additives are not only unnecessary—they can actually cause problems.
Let me break down why you don’t need them and what you should be doing instead.
Why You Don’t Need Septic Additives
Your septic tank is already designed to work on its own. The natural bacteria in the tank break down waste just fine without any help from additives.
Adding extra bacteria or enzymes isn’t going to make your tank work better. The system already has everything it needs to do the job it was built for, as long as you’re using it properly and staying on top of regular maintenance.
Let’s Talk About the Myths
Myth #1: Additives will eliminate the need for pumping.
This one is the most common myth I hear, and it’s completely false. Some products claim they’ll break down solids so well that you won’t need to pump your tank anymore. That’s not how septic systems work.
No matter what you put in your tank, solids are still going to build up over time. Pumping is the only way to get rid of them. If you skip pumping because you’re relying on additives, you’re going to end up with clogged pipes, backups, or even system failure.
Pumping your tank is just part of owning a septic system—it’s not optional. Think of it like getting an oil change for your car. You can’t skip it, no matter what kind of fancy product someone tries to sell you.
Myth #2: Additives will make your system run better.
Your tank already has all the bacteria it needs to break down waste naturally. Adding more bacteria or enzymes doesn’t improve anything.
In some cases, additives can actually mess up the natural balance in your tank. Even worse, some products contain chemicals that can kill off the bacteria your system relies on.
Save your money—your tank doesn’t need any extra help to do its job.
Myth #3: Additives prevent clogs and system failures.
This one sounds great in theory, but the truth is, additives can actually create more problems than they solve.
Here’s how:
- Solids can flow into the drain field: Some additives break down solids so much that they move into the drain field, where they don’t belong. This can clog the pipes and ruin the field, which is a nightmare to fix.
- Chemicals can cause damage: Some products use harsh chemicals that corrode your pipes and tank, shortening the life of your system.
If you’re dealing with slow drains or backups, don’t waste your time with a bottle of “magic.” Call a professional and let us figure out what’s really going on.
What You Should Do Instead
Skip the additives and focus on these simple steps to keep your system running smoothly:
- Pump your tank regularly: For most homes, this means every 3-5 years, depending on usage.
- Be careful what you flush: Stick to toilet paper and the basics—no wipes, no grease, no junk.
- Conserve water: Too much water can overwhelm your system, so fix leaks and spread out water-heavy tasks like laundry.
- Get regular inspections: Having a professional check your system can save you from expensive surprises later on.
The Bottom Line
Here’s the deal: your septic system doesn’t need any fancy products to do its job. Regular pumping, proper use, and a little common sense are all it takes to keep things running smoothly.
Additives are just a waste of money. At best, they do nothing, and at worst, they can mess up your system. Save yourself the headache and stick to what works.
If you have questions or it’s time to pump your tank, give us a call. We’re here to help with honest advice and dependable service—no gimmicks, no nonsense.