Good Bacteria: How the Microbes in Your Septic System Work

While bacteria are generally associated with an ick factor, septic tanks actually love these little critters. Good bacteria in the septic system are essential to keep your tank balanced and prevent issues like overflow, pungent odors and sewage backup. Septic tanks are home to an abundance of bacterial strains that eat away at waste and help keep your plumbing system running smoothly.

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Why Are There Microbes in My Septic Tank?

Millions and trillions of bacteria strains are naturally present in your septic system. Bacteria exist in decomposing waste, which enters your septic tank when you flush the toilet or put food down the drain via your garbage disposal. The two main types in septic systems are anaerobic bacteria and aerobic bacteria. Anaerobic bacteria help break down solid waste, while aerobic bacteria help break down organic waste. Without a healthy bacterial balance, your septic system would fail to eliminate harmful waste products, leading to buildup and a host of plumbing issues.

Are There Bad Bacteria in My Septic Tank?

In some cases, a potentially "bad" bacteria called E. coli can exist in your septic system. These bacteria are considered harmful and can enter your tank via human and animal feces. If your system has leaking or damaged pipes, it may increase the risk of E. coli reaching surface water sources.

If you're concerned about high levels of E. coli bacteria in the septic system, UV disinfecting systems and chemicals such as chlorine and chloramine may help balance out your tank. Because E. coli can increase the risk of illness, it's best to have your tank treated and flushed by a plumbing professional or septic tank specialist.

Sulfate-reducing bacteria is another type of bacteria that may be harmful to your septic tank. When SRBs are present, you may notice strong odors coming from your tank. High levels of sulfate-reducing bacteria can also lead to pipe corrosion.

Can You Put Too Much Bacteria in the Septic Tank?

While healthy septic tanks should usually have a balanced level of good bacteria at all times, there are situations when higher levels of bacteria occur. This is often due to excess amounts of toxic chemicals from commercial cleaning products, pesticides and even certain types of soap. The chemicals can disrupt the healthy balance and cause the bacteria to overpopulate in the tank.

If you suspect your tank has too much bacteria, it's best to consult a professional plumber or septic tank specialist. They have special chemicals and treatment products to help restore the natural balance of your tank. They can also inspect your tank for other potential issues that may be causing the imbalance.

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• Your Leaky Septic System Is a Hazard. Here's Why

• What Is a Percolation Test?

Can a Septic Tank Have Too Few Bacteria?

It's possible to have too few bacteria in your septic tank. When this happens, the existing enzymes in the tank may not be enough to effectively break down waste. Some signs of low levels of good bacteria in your tank include strong odors coming from your drains and sewage backup in your sinks and tubs. In severe cases, the wastewater from your tank may move into your drainage field too quickly, leading to flooding and standing water.

How Do You Add Good Bacteria Back In?

Try Septic Tank Enzymes

To increase the good bacteria in your septic system, consider using a commercial septic tank treatment solution. These products contain helpful bacteria and enzymes that work to safely eliminate waste and help septic tanks maintain a "good" bacterial balance.

Use DIY Septic Tank Additives

A few DIY options that may help add good bacteria back into your septic system include rotten tomatoes and yeast. Run a few rotten tomatoes down your garbage disposal, or flush a few small chunks down your toilet. The rotten tomatoes contain natural enzymes that break down plant cell walls and aid in natural decomposition.

Active dry yeast works by activating enzymes that promote good bacteria and break down certain types of waste. Home and garden experts recommend flushing approximately 1/4 packet of active dry yeast down the toilet once a month.

Call a Septic Professional For Treatment

While these remedies may all aid in promoting a healthy septic system, it's important to note that they may not break down all the solid waste in your tank. If you're concerned your tank is off-balance, it's always a good idea to consult with a plumbing professional before attempting to treat the issue on your own.