How to clean a septic tank without pumping
If you own a residence, you know that there is no getting around septic pumping service and inspections. It’s recommended that you have your septic tank pumped and inspected every 1 to 2 years, so if it’s been a while, you should really schedule septic service today. But if you end up having issues with the pipes, drains, or the septic system itself, you may have to schedule septic pumping service and inspections much more often. This can end up costing you hundreds of extra dollars not to mention putting too much wear and tear on your septic system. If your septic tank or leach field ends up having to be replaced, it can cost you thousands of dollars!
If you're looking for ways to maintain your septic system in between pumping services, you're in luck. There are many ways to help take care of your septic system and one super easy and affordable way is to simply start using baking soda.
Is baking soda safe for septic tanks?
Baking soda is sometimes suggested as a natural alternative to commercial septic tank treatments. It's believed to help maintain a balanced pH level in septic systems, which can support the growth of beneficial bacteria that break down waste.
While baking soda is generally safe for septic systems in small quantities, it's important to remember that it's not a replacement for regular maintenance and professional care.
Here are some things to consider:
Quantity: If you decide to use baking soda in your septic system, use it sparingly. (See usage instructions below).
Regular Pumping: Regular pumping of the septic tank is essential for its proper functioning. This typically needs to be done every few years, depending on the size of the tank and the number of people in the household.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid pouring harsh chemicals down your drains, as they can disrupt the natural bacterial balance in the septic tank. This includes things like bleach, drain cleaners, and excessive use of antibacterial soaps.
Be Aware: Be mindful of what goes down your drains. Avoid excessive use of chemicals, fats, oils, and non-biodegradable items.
Consult a Professional: If you're unsure about whether to use baking soda or any other treatment in your septic system, it's always best to consult with a professional who specializes in septic systems.
Will baking soda hurt a septic system?
Baking soda and other common household solutions such as vinegar are not harmful to your septic system. What will harm your septic system are harsh chemicals such as bleach and ammonia, which can disrupt the good bacteria in your septic tank and should never be used as part of a septic treatment. Septic system additives play a crucial role in maintaining the health of your tank and should be considered carefully before adding them to your routine maintenance schedule.
How does baking soda help you avoid septic system emergencies?
Using baking soda mixed with other all natural ingredients can be used as an environmentally safe and natural cleaner for your toilet, sinks, tub, and drains. Using baking soda instead of harsh chemical cleaners such as bleach will keep all that important bacteria from being killed off. The good bacteria in your septic system is necessary because it breaks down all the waste that comes through the pipes. Without the good bacteria you will end up with clogs, back-ups, and odors that wear away at your septic tank and eventually cause a septic system emergency.
How much baking soda do I put in my septic tank?
Using baking soda in your septic tank is very easy. You can mix about a 1/4 cup of baking soda with 1/2 cup of vinegar and 2 tablespoons lemon to make your own natural cleaning agent. The baking soda will fizz up to help get the dirt and grime in your tub and drains. It’s a great cleaner and your septic system will thank you!