Sodium bicarbonate is better than calcium because it adds the alkalinity of the septic tank as opposed to adding the pH. Some chemical additives use sodium bicarbonate as another pH buffering chemical. To make matters worse, the calcium might also become a flocculant which will end up making the solids to suspend in the septic tank and these eventually find their way into the leach field. When the pH levels are raised in the septic tank, it might get too high and that will result in the death of beneficial bacteria. Theoretically, it sounds like a good idea but the problem is that calcium will actually do more harm than good. This is based on the fact that natural bacteria activity lowers the pH levels in the septic tank hence the need for raising it via calcium. The main idea of using calcium as an additive is that it raises the pH levels in the sewage to create a conducive environment for optimal bacterial activity. The following are some of the common components of chemical additivesĬalcium is one of the commonest ingredients in chemical additives. Unfortunately, this is seldom the case especially since most homeowners use products that harm the efficacy of bacteria. The biggest demerit of chemical additives is that they work on the assumption that the septic tank has enough bacteria and enzymes. So, what makes a good additive? Well, let’s look at the main ingredients used in the making of septic tank additives.

The other reason why some people are against additives is a bad experience with some lousy additives that are on the market. Researchers from Purdue University remind every septic system owner to still continuing pumping their tanks every 3-5 years even when using biological additives. While it is true that additives improve the efficiency and longevity of septic systems, the septic system owner must still continue with the regular pumping schedule.

But the biggest reason why people are advised against using additives is the misconceived notion that a septic tank additive completely eliminates the need for pumping or other maintenance procedures. There is a lot of debate raging on the effectiveness of septic tank additives.

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