When it comes to maintaining your septic tank, there are several steps you can take to ensure the longevity of it. While you may be tempted to use an additive in your septic tank, this can actually cause more harm than good. If you’re unsure whether an additive is right for your system, consider the following three reasons you should not include these during maintenance.

3 Reasons to Not Use an Additive in Your Septic System

1. They Kill the Good Bacteria

With correct maintenance, your septic tank develops its own cleansing process, which relies on having the right amount of good bacteria in it. The good bacteria in your system naturally breaks down waste and without it, cannot eliminate this byproduct. When you introduce an additive into your tank, it destroys all the bacteria–including the kind needed to keep your system functioning properly.

2. They Can Erode Your Tank

Before using additives in your septic system, consider the ingredients found in these cleansing products. Most contain harsh chemicals that build up in your system and can be corrosive to the pipes that filter your water and the actual tank. With multiple uses, additives can cause your plumbing and septic tank to crack or break, which significantly reduces the lifespan of your system.  

3. They Are Bad for Your Soil

During the flushing process, your septic tank empties into a drain field. If you use additives to cleanse your system, these will eventually make their way out into the field as well. This means the harsh chemicals they contain will be absorbed by the ground and surrounding waterways. This can pollute or even damage the natural environment around your septic system and will reduce the quality of your drain field.

You rely on your septic tank to keep everything flowing efficiently, which is why individuals in Forsyth, MO, trust S & S Pumping for their maintenance needs. For more than 16 years, they have provided vital septic tank services, from installation to cleaning and pumping. To learn more about how these professionals can help you keep your septic system in optimal shape, visit them online or call (417) 546-2390.