CAN HYDROGEN PEROXIDE IMPROVE THE OPERATION OF A FAILING OR FALTERING SEPTIC SYSTEM?

Over the past 40 years, there have been several studies conducted on septic tank additives; however, there is still some debate on their effectiveness. Part of the problem stems from the number of additives that are marketed and the lack of an established standard testing method for all additives. Complicating this situation is the debate between additives manufacturers and independent researchers regarding which effects are deemed beneficial and which are deemed detrimental. Currently, there is contention as to whether or not increasing the friability, or breakup, of the scum layer or enhancing the anaerobic decomposition process is beneficial in septic systems

Contrary to common belief, septic tanks are not maintenance free. However, properly designed septic tanks installed correctly and not overloaded with water or household grease or solids from garbage disposals normally function well for many years. Typically, septic tanks are made of precast concrete. Some tanks have lids of three or more parts. The baffles (or tees) must be in good condition to keep floating scum and grease from leaving the tank and plugging the soil in the drain field. In addition to the floating scum, the tanks also contain liquid sewage, which eventually flows to the drain field.

Over a period of time, a sludge layer forms in the bottom of the tank. The sludge consists of the solids that remain after the anaerobic bacteria in the tank breaks down the solid wastes. The natural process of anaerobic digestion normally does quite well on its own, so no chemicals, enzymes, yeast or other additives should be routinely fed into the tanks. Normal household chemicals and occasional use of drain cleaners will not significantly affect tank operation. Roots that penetrate porous drain lines can sometimes be controlled by adding copper sulfate crystals.

Contrary to popular belief, yeast, dead chickens, possums, or raw hamburger do not need to be added to the septic tank.

A homeowner does not need to add a stimulator or an enhancer to a septic tank that is designed, operated, and maintained properly-naturally occurring bacteria are already present within human fecal matter. Contrary to popular belief, yeast, dead chickens, possums, or raw hamburger do not need to be added to the septic tank. Chemical additives, such as caustic hydroxides and sulfuric acid, should never be added to a septic system. Adding these products will destroy the bacterial population in the septic tank, change the permeability characteristics of the soil absorption system, and may cause groundwater contamination. Often, manufacturers of biological additives market their use to restore the bacterial balance in a septic tank on a monthly basis as part of a routine maintenance program. This is not necessary because these bacteria already reside in human feces.

Claims made on the effectiveness of additives to either eliminate pumping of a septic tank or restore permeability of the soil absorption system are unsubstantiated. No product, including hydrogen peroxide, will allow a homeowner to escape a regular septic tank pumping and maintenance schedule. The debate on the issue of using an additive can be resolved only through a cooperative research effort from independent/unbiased researchers (such as universities and research centers) and additive manufacturers to determine their true effectiveness and reveal their limitations. Until then, it's best not to use any chemicals that claim to enhance your septic tanks already functioning natural systems.