Caustic household products and pharmaceuticals can stress septic systems, and may even cause the die-off of beneficial bacteria. And while there’s no substitute for proper maintenance and regular pumping, many believe tank and drainfield additives can help ensure that proper amounts of bacteria are maintained for a free-flowing system. Manufacturers report that additives also can aid in the reduction of clog-forming fats, oils, grease and effluent solids. Here are some of the latest products available:
Bio-Clean
Bio-Clean bacteria waste eliminator, distributed by Statewide Supply Inc., is a combination of natural bacteria and enzymes that digest waste found in septic tanks and drainfields. The organic waste is metabolized down to water and carbon dioxide, providing the bacteria with energy to sustain life. The consumed waste eliminates odors, pollution or clogs. 800/553-5573; www.bio-clean.com.
Bio-Systems International
SK3 septic additive from Bio-Systems and distributed by Chempace Corp. is a concentrated blend of three municipal wastewater treatment formulations, each targeting a specific waste or result: grease degradation, sludge reduction and elimination of paper wastes. The powdered bacteria are packaged in water-soluble pouches inside resealable plastic boxes, or the new outhouse design, with free custom private labeling for either package. 800/232-2847; www.biobugs.com.
One Biotechnology
Bio One drain maintainer from One Biotechnology degrades organic waste buildup in residential drain lines, septic tanks and drainfields and commercial kitchens. The ready-to-use liquid is environmentally friendly, recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Design for the Environment program and contains no harmful chemicals or emulsifiers. 800/951-4246; www.1biotechnology.com.
Walex
Bio-Active septic tank treatment from Walex uses powerful, natural ingredients to destroy and liquefy waste in septic tanks and cesspools. It can be used monthly to overcome the destructive effects of household products, such as bleach, detergents and chemicals. The product helps keep septic tanks and drainfields working efficiently and maximizes tank capacity while aiding in the prevention of clogs. It also helps reduce solids and restores the population of worker bacteria and enzymes, keeping the system healthy between recommended pumping. 800/338-3155; www.walex.com.
Cape Cod Biochemical Co.
The ccls family of septic and drain cleaning products from Cape Cod Biochemical Co. contain micro-organisms, type-specific to the waste being treated. They have been laboratory enhanced to digest the grease, fats, oils, carbohydrates, starches, proteins, cellulose and detergents that commonly build up in plumbing, septic tanks and grease waste systems. Designed to eliminate backups and odors, the products are environmentally safe and approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for residential, commercial, institutional and municipal applications. The ccls liquid formulation is made for residential and commercial septic system maintenance; Bio-Rem E-D is a granular grease trap, sewer and drainline treatment; DrainMaster is a concentrated drain cleaner for grease trap maintenance, and AfterShock is a bioremediation restorative. 800/343-8007; www.septiconline.com.
Lenzyme/Trap-Cleer Inc.
Biological waste treatment products from Lenzyme/Trap Cleer Inc. are designed for residential septic and drain applications, commercial and industrial waste and grease solutions as well as ATU startups and ongoing treatments. 800/223-3083.
Septic Tank Formula
Septic Tank Formula (No. 45049) is an industrial-strength, highly concentrated product from USABlueBook that contains selected strains of bacteria, which consume organic material in septic systems. The product helps eliminate unwanted odors and backups, keeping the entire system clear and free-flowing. It is safe for people, pets and the environment. 800/548-1234; www.usabluebook.com.
Arcan Enterprises
Septic-Scrub drainfield flow restorer from Arcan Enterprises can help restore flow in the soil absorption area by oxidizing bacteria byproducts and adding oxygen to the system. Major causes of soil absorption area failure are hydraulic overloading or biological overloading. Both conditions result in increased anaerobic activity in the absorption area. This activity produces more sulfides, which react with iron in the soil and water to produce iron sulfide, the “black sludge.” The chemical treatment oxidizes sulfides and releases oxygen into the drainfield. The product is environmentally friendly and can also be used to prevent problems from occurring. 888/352-7226; www.arcan.com.
Ecological Laboratories
Pro-Pump/HC (high count) liquid live bacteria from Ecological Laboratories Inc. is designed for a range of onsite wastewater applications, including septic system treatment, absorption system recovery, aerobic system treatment, drain and grease traps, solids reduction and odor control. The additive is made to reduce BOD, COD, total suspended solids, treat phenolic wastes, biodegrade hydrogen sulfide and other various pollutants. 800/326-7867; www.propump.com.
