|
Our Top Pick 
| 
|
$19.95 ($1.66 / Count)
| ||
Septic systems are crucial when it comes to treating wastewater, but did you know there are septic tank treatments to help maintain them? An underground chamber, their main function is to separate solid waste from liquid waste.
They also contain anaerobic bacteria that help break down and liquefy the organic waste. The partially treated wastewater then goes through an effluent filter, out of the tank, and into the groundwater.
Generally speaking, these watertight containers are located 10 to 25 feet within a home and are installed parallel to the sewer line that extends from the building.
As you can probably guess, they do require regular maintenance. For one thing, they should be emptied every three to five years. That’ll prevent sludge, grime, and scum from building up, all of which can lead to clogs.
Not only that but it’ll also increase the holding capacity of the tank, which in return, will boost its efficiency.
Then there are septic tank treatments. Basically, they’re additives that are designed to prevent backups and overflows; they contain billions of beneficial bacteria and enzymes that are capable of breaking down organic material, grease, oils, fats, and other waste.
And since they’re formulated for septic tanks, you don’t have to worry about them damaging your plumbing system. They’re completely safe for your pipes.
Thinking of giving them a try? Wondering which septic tank treatment you should get? If so, you’re at the right place- we’ll be going over some of the best options in our 2023 best septic tank treatments guide below.
Keep reading to find out what the different products are! That’s right, we’ve compiled everything on this page so you won’t have to do any of the work!
Top 10 Septic Tank Treatments – Our Top Picks For 2023
Without further delay, here are some of the best septic tank treatment products that you can buy in 2023.
- ACTIVE Septic Tank System Treatment Pods
- - Highly effective at neutralizing smells
- - Easy to use
- - Comes with a year's supply
- - Cost effective
- - Those outside of the U.S. will have to pay extra for shipping
- Green Gobbler Septic Tank Treatment Packets
- - Packets are easy to use
- - Made in the USA
- - Biodegradable formula
- - Cost effective
- - Can take a couple of days to work
- Cabin Obsession Septic Tank Treatment
- - Work relatively quickly
- - Chart at the back for easy tracking
- - Comes with a year's supply
- - Packets have a sweet scent that some may find off-putting
- Green Pig Live Septic Tank Treatment
- - Effective at eliminating smells and clogs
- - Can be used to treat up to 1500-gallon tanks
- - Free of harsh chemicals
- - One pack only comes with four packets
- - A bit pricey
- Rid-X Septic Dual Action Septi-Pacs
- - Comes in a childproof bag
- - Effective at eliminating waste and odors
- - Contains dyes
- - QC issues
- Instant Power Septic Shock Treatment
- - Effective at removing clogs and odors
- - Simple to use
- - Made in the USA
- - Liquid requires measuring
- - Have to use one container's worth each time
- Down John Septic Tank Treatment
- - Once-a-year dosing
- - Convenient to use
- - Very expensive
- Bio-Clean Septic Tank Treatment
- - Multi-purpose
- - Removes buildup and odors
- - Works fairly quickly
- - Needs to be mixed with water
- - One jar is only good for one use
- - Expensive
- Pro-Lab One Flush Septic Treatment
- - Easy to use
- - Fairly effective
- - Free of chemical additives
- - Packets are small
- - May need to use more than one packet per treatment
- - Not the cheapest
- Drain Field Cleaner by Dr. Pooper
- - Decent job of eliminating waste and odors
- - Dissolvable tablets are convenient to use
- - Can take a while to see effect
- - Expensive
ACTIVE Septic Tank Treatment contains billions of live bacteria and is designed to prevent unwanted odors and to restore the balance of beneficial bacteria. Professionally formulated, it can be used in conventional and chamber systems, black tanks, RV holding tanks, drip distributions, and both anaerobic and aerobic treatment units. Made in the USA.
You also get your money's worth as one pack comes with an entire year's supply.
Green Gobbler Septic Saver Pods contain natural bacteria that will break down organic material, fats, grease, oils, and other waste. They will also neutralize the effects of harmful chemicals such as bleach and detergents. Odorless and fume-free. Made in the USA and comes with a money-back guarantee.
Keep in mind, however, that it can take up to a couple of days before you notice a difference.
Cabin Obsession Septic Tank Treatment contains billions of active bacteria cultures and is specially formulated to break down organic waste. Each flushable packet is made of all-natural ingredients and does not contain any chemical additives. Safe for home plumbing lines, cesspools, and black water systems.
The only thing is that the packs do have a weirdly sweet scent, which some people may find off-putting.
Green Pig Live Septic Tank Treatment features a concentrated, all-natural formula that is gentle on pipes and is capable of digesting sludge, grease, and solid waste. Can be used to treat 500, 1000, and 1500-gallon tanks, in addition to drain lines and leach lines. Free of formaldehyde and other chemicals.
They can be a bit pricey, however.
Rid-X Dual Action Septi-Pacs contains natural bacteria and advanced enzymes that work quickly to dissolve protein, oils, grease, and paper. The packs feature a concentrated formula and are pre-measured and easy to use. Suitable for tanks up to 1,500 gallons.
The only thing is that it does contain dyes. Some people have also had issues where there's only two packets in a pouch, when there's supposed to be three.
Instant Power Septic Shock Treatment is formulated with beneficial bacteria and enzymes that will dissolve system-clogging matter such as grease, paper, protein, and starches; it'll also open lateral or leach field lines, preventing messy backups. Free from harsh chemicals, caustics, or acids.
The only drawback is that you have to use an entire container's worth of liquid each time so it's not the cheapest option. In some cases, you might even need to use more than one bottle.
Down John Septic Treatment is formulated to eliminate odor and backup. Made of all-natural ingredients, it will bind and remove harmful toxins, including nitrates. It will also clear lateral lines and improve leach field absorption.
Bio-Clean Septic Treatment features a special combination of microbes and enzymes that break down organic waste found in your plumbing system. In addition to that, it'll also remove soap scum, grease, paper, food particles, and other solids that are plugging the pipes. Can also be used for kitchen sinks, bath tubs, showers, and more.
It also requires a bit of preparation as you need to mix the product with water beforehand so it's not the most convenient option out there.
Pro-Lab One Flush Septic Treatment contains 56 billion beneficial bacteria that digest oils, fats, grease, paper, and organic matter to keep your sewer line and septic tank clear. Made in the USA with all-natural, environmentally friendly ingredients without any chemical additives.
The packets, however, are quite small so you only get a little bit of product per application. In other words, you may have to use more than one packet at once if you have a larger septic tank.
Dr. Pooper's Drain Field Cleaner features a patent-pending formula that makes beneficial bacteria grow up to 40 times faster. In doing so, it's able to quickly clear leach fields, septic drains, clogs, and organic sludge. Safe for all systems - aerobic, anaerobic, gravity-fed, ceramic tanks, iron tanks, and aerated systems.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Septic Tank Treatment
Different septic tank treatments contain different ingredients. Given that, it’s not surprising to know that some will be more effective than others.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when you’re choosing a product.
Formulation
Septic tank treatments are available as liquids, dissolvable packets, and tablets. While they’re all effective, they do have their own pros and cons.
For example, packets are usually more convenient to use as they don’t require any measuring- just drop them in and you’re done. Liquids, on the other hand, need to be measured. However, they’re generally cheaper.
At the end of the day, it all comes down to what you prefer.
Deodorizing Power
Ideally, you want to choose a septic treatment that will not only break down waste but will also eliminate odors.
This means choosing a concentrated formula, one that contains active enzymes that will dissolve the odor-causing bio-organic wastes.
Eco-Friendliness
Septic treatments that are made from all-natural, biodegradable ingredients are best. Organic options are also available.
You want to avoid those with chemical additives, including dyes, as they can contaminate the environment. Not to mention that they can also damage your plumbing and septic system.
Versatility
Some septic tank treatments are highly versatile and can also be used to treat other tanks. They may be a good option if you also have an RV or a boat.
Septic Treatment Products – Q&A
Do septic tank treatments really work?
Yes, commercial septic tank treatments contain active bacteria and enzymes that are capable of preventing bulky buildup and clogs by breaking down waste. More specifically, they liquefy solid waste, which can then be pumped out easily.
How do you use septic tank treatment products?
Septic tank treatments are super easy to use in that all you have to do is drop them into the toilet and flush. Depending on the product, however, you may have to do some measuring or mixing beforehand. In some cases, you can also let the product sit overnight before flushing.
How often should you use a septic tank treatment?
Dosing varies from product to product. For example, some are to be used monthly while others can be used yearly. Keep in mind, however, that you still need to pump the septic tank regularly, ideally once every two to five years. If anything, the treatments are only meant to 'tie you over' until the next emptying.
What is the signs of a septic needs cleaning?
If you notice pooling water around your septic tank, chances are it's time for a cleaning. Other tell-tale signs that your septic tank needs to be emptied include foul odors, sewage backup, and slow drains. You may also notice that your toilets are slow to flush. The grass may also appear brown.
What happens if you dont clean the septic tank?
Sludge and scum will accumulate in the septic tank and over time, it can move to the drain field, where it can cause clogs. For example, it can clog the pumps and field lines. Not only will that decrease the capacity of the tank but wastewater will also rise to the surface and contaminate your soil. Rarely, it can also back up into the house.
What bacteria lives in the septic tank?
Three main types of bacteria live in the septic tank- anaerobic, aerobic, and facultative, all of which help break down and liquefy solid waste. To keep them healthy, it's highly recommended that you pump frequently and maintain your drain field. Avoid using bleach, antibacterial soap, and harsh drain cleaners as they can kill the microbes. Use biodegradable ingredients whenever possible instead.
How do you restore good bacteria in a septic tank?
Septic tank treatments are a great way to restore good bacteria in a septic tank. They contain special enzymes that will boost the beneficial bacteria count, which will help with the degradation of organic waste matter.
Is it okay to pour vinegar into septic tank?
Vinegar (e.g. white vinegar, apple cyder vinegar) is 100% safe for your septic system. Not only will it dissolve soap scum but it can also help control the growth of mold and mildew. Keep in mind, however, that it won't be as effective as using a commercial septic tank treatment.
