Onsite wastewater treatment systems are built around natural processes, but there are times when, because of abuse or site-specific conditions, nature needs a little help.
Producers of additives offer products that are designed to keep septic tanks functioning properly, enhance drainfield performance, and even help revive drainfields that are failing. Here is a sampling of such products, ranging from chemical additives to complex bacterial and enzyme formulations that installers — especially those who also perform system maintenance — may want to keep in mind.
Bioremediation treatment
Septic Scrub Plus from Lenzyme is a bacterial formulation that attacks biomat buildup in drainfields. The product consists of sodium carbonate peroxyhydrate and a blend of bacteria designed to re-establish lost bacteria. The blended bacteria also help to break down paper fibers, grease, pectins and other organic substances that may be left in the field. The material is applied to laterals by pouring the powder in and adding water to flush it into the field lines. The material reacts with the biomat and sulfides that build up on the top of the soil bed. This mild reaction causes the biomat to break apart and restore percolation to the soil bed. For information: 800/223-3083; www.lenzyme.com.
Natural drain cleaning
Bio-Clean bacteria and enzyme formulation from Statewide Supply helps homeowners keep drain and sewer pipes clear of blockages. The product is non-poisonous; it creates no heat, fumes or boiling. It does not attack live tissue or inorganic materials, only organic wastes like grease, hair, food particles, paper, cotton and sewage.
The product turns the waste particles into water, carbon dioxide and mineral ash that run harmlessly out of the waste system. Within an hour after the product is poured into the drain, the bacteria begin to consume the waste on the sides and top of the drainpipe. The material is suited for multiple residential and commercial applications. For information: 608/850-5555; www. bio-clean.com.
Septic tank maintenance
BIOBUG SEP from Bio-Systems International helps septic systems overcome problems such as overuse of disinfectants, bleaches and detergents, and very hot or cold conditions. The product replenishes and boosts the supply of microorganisms and allows natural activity to continue.
The user simply drops pre-packaged and pre-measured pouches into the toilet bowl. The initial application restores the biological process and increases existing biological activity. Regular monthly applications keep the septic tank working effectively and prevents emergencies. The product contains no corrosive chemicals, caustic or acids. It will not damage metal, ceramic, or plastic components. For information: 800/232-2847; www.biobugs.com.
Tablet formulation
BIO-TAB from Century Chemical Corp. is a highly concentrated tablet of bacteria (aerobic and anaerobic) and enzymes that acts as a biological activator for septic tanks. The product comes in tablet form for ease of use and storage. One jar contains a year’s supply. It is a safe, non-toxic, non-corrosive and non-poisonous product, and will not harm plumbing or septic systems. For information: 800/348-3505; www.century chemical.com.
Drainfield restoration
BIO-REM E-D granular and BIO-GEL gelpac grease trap and sewer and drain line treatments from Cape Cod Biochemical Co. have uses that include restoring septic system drainfields. The product breaks down grease, digests waste and eliminates odors.
The product contains at least seven strains of living aerobic and anaerobic organisms, as well as enzymes that help break down starch, protein, grease and cellulose. Organisms also are present to degrade detergent and hydrocarbons and reduce sulfides.
Both products become active in liquid. The enzymes break down organic waste into food for the bacteria, which multiply and produce more enzymes. The cycle continues until the waste has been completely digested. The products are non-hazardous, give off no odors or toxic fumes, will not harm skin, and contain no acids, caustics, chloride, or organic solvents. For information: 800/343-8007; www. septiconline.com.
Waste liquefier
bioFORCE from Chempace Corp. is a specialized bacteria product that liquefies organic waste solids and grease, reduces odors, and keeps septic systems functioning properly between pumping. Regular injections are recommended to maintain peak effectiveness. The product is available in packet, granular and liquid forms. For information: 419/535-0101; www. chempace.com.
Natural septic treatment
Drainbo Natural Septic System Treatment has a seven-strain bacteria formula and uses natural biological decomposition to break down organic waste matter. The treatment, with a lemon scent, can be used to maintain septic systems, without potentially harmful chemicals. The product digests waste, grease and proteins, and controls odors in drains, septic tanks, cesspools and other facilities. For information: 877/372-4626; www.drainbo.com.
Control for roots in lines
ProClean Root Destroyer from Duracable Manufacturing Inc. helps retard the growth of roots in drain lines. Users pour the recommended dosage into the toilet bowl and flush to kill the roots growing in the sewer line. The product does not affect the rest of the tree’s root system. For information: 800/ 247-4081; www.duracable.com.
Remediation kits
PRO-PUMP remediation kits from Ecological Laboratories Inc. help restore performance in sluggish and failed soil absorption systems. The company has tested the product in numerous states, soil types and wastewater system designs. The kit includes microbial enhancement technology that speeds the breakdown of stubborn organic matter and uses organic bio-stimulants and oxygen sources to accelerate biological activity. For information: 516/379-3441; www.propump.com.
Aid to treatment
BIO JET-7 from Jet Inc. breaks down and digests grease, fats, soap, scum and other colloidals and dissolves organic materials in both anaerobic and aerobic wastewater treatment systems. The product keeps household systems operating properly. Approved for waste-related applications by the USDA, the product is non-toxic and will not damage equipment. By re-establishing and enhancing biological activity, it stops organic odors for as long as a maintenance program is followed.
The product contributes to lower effluent BOD and suspended solids, and helps systems recover from shock loading. It also helps break down the clogging mat in leachfields to restore drainage and eliminate the need to replace the field. For information: 800/321-6960; www.jetincorp.com.
Pre-measured product
BioOne 64-ounce from One Biotechnology is designed for use in residential drain systems and septic tanks. A pre-measured cap makes it easy to introduce the product in conjunction with manual drain cleaning. Active microbes colonize in the drainline and eat the waste and slime that cables leave behind. For information: 800/951- 4246; www.1biotechnology.com.
For large systems
ROETECH 104 from Roebic Laboratories Inc. is a highly concentrated spore mixture of four bacillus bacteria with high enzyme-producing ability. It is designed for use in large onsite wastewater systems associated with resorts, country clubs, universities, apartment complexes and factories. It can be formulated into consumer drain cleaners and septic tank treatment products. The bacteria produce protease, lipase, amylase, urease, cellulase and nitrate reductase enzymes. For information: 203/ 795-1283; www.roebic.com.
Benign tank treatment
SepTech 2000ST tank treatment from Septech Industries Inc. is a user-friendly liquid that breaks down the starches, greases, proteins and other organic materials that can clog septic tanks, drainfields and cesspools. It is a high-potency formulation of cultured bacteria that is safe for the environment, contains no solvents, and will not cause problems at municipal wastewater treatment plants. For information: 561/586-9442; www.septech2000.com.
Soil improvement formula
Septic Seep system soil improver from Drayner helps failing drainfields recover by dispersing greases and scum that clog soil passages, and releasing sodium-bonded clays to reopen soil, restoring passages for air and water. The product contains calcium polysulphide, a soil amendment that helps relieve hardpan conditions typically caused by high levels of sodium in wastewater. For information: 800/372-9637; www. drayner.com.
