Why Does Your Septic System Need Chlorine?

Why Does Your Septic System Need Chlorine?

Bacteria form complex biofilms in a typical septic system that breaks down sewage and other organic matter. These are the main reason you have little or no problems with drain field backups. However, this bacteria does not necessarily filter out all harmful microorganisms from your septic system. If it fails, chlorine for septic systems may be used to control the growth of pathogens in the effluent that comes from your home's drains and possibly convert them harmlessly into chloride. When you have a septic concern, Metro Septic Pumping can help. With our septic tank maintenance program, you won't have to worry about surprises.

What Is Chlorine and Should You Use It In Your Septic System?

You may have heard that chlorine is harmful to your septic system and shouldn't be used, but what is chlorine, and why should you care? Chlorine is a powerful chemical that kills bacteria, making it useful in medicine and sanitation. However, household bleach (sodium hypochlorite) contains about 5% chlorine by weight and cannot be used in septic systems because it will kill the organisms that digest your waste. Contact your local septic tank company for guidance if you have any questions.

The use of chlorine in septic systems has become prevalent in recent years, especially with the introduction of chlorine tablets that can be added directly into the septic tank or drainfield. Chlorine tablets are easy to use, and they are inexpensive. However, there are some drawbacks associated with using them.

What Is the Purpose of Chlorine?

Chlorine helps prevent the growth of anaerobic bacteria, which produce hydrogen sulfide gas and odor. Hydrogen sulfide gas is highly toxic and can cause death. The presence of anaerobic bacteria can also lead to sludge formation in your septic tank.

Although we think of chlorine as toxic and dangerous, it can be very beneficial when used correctly. Chlorine kills off any harmful bacteria or viruses that might be present in your home's wastewater or rainwater runoff before they have a chance to reach your leach field or drain field. This will keep them from clogging up these areas and causing damage or even failure of your entire septic system.

Where Can You Find Chlorine For Your Septic System?

Chlorine is added to a septic tank by putting tablets into the drain field or liquid chlorine into a leach field with a pump truck. These tablets or liquids have various strengths, but most people use either 5% or 10% chlorine bleach for their systems. If you live in an area with frequent power outages, you may want to consider using 10% bleach since it has more staying power than 5%.

If you are uncertain about the reason for adding chlorine to your septic system and how to apply it safely, contact Metro Septic Pumping. Our licensed, trained technicians will take care of your septic system maintenance so that you don't have to.