Can Septic Tank Systems Have Too Much Bacteria?

Can Septic Tank Systems Have Too Much Bacteria?

It’s no surprise that we all associate the word ‘bacteria’ with negative thoughts. We were all raised to think bacteria in anything was bad for us, and we wanted to avoid coming into contact with bacteria. Which is most cases, that is 100% true and we do want to stay away from bacteria, but when it comes to our septic tanks, you want to see bacteria present. Here at Metro Septic Plumbing, we want to help you understand what happens in your septic tanks, how you can maintain them on your own, and how bacteria in them is a good thing. We offer reliable septic tank system cleaning & pumping services in The Metro Atlanta area.

Why is bacteria good in your septic system?

Septic systems aren’t typically the cleanest place in your home, but the bacteria in your system actually helps to balance out your system and keep it functioning properly. Whether you want to believe us or not, using too many chemical cleaners in your septic system doesn’t help your system at all, it can actually ruin the balance of bacteria in your system. Don’t worry, we’ll discuss this further later in this blog. 

The different forms of bacteria
When it comes to the bacteria that live in your septic tank, there are two main ones that work and live together to keep your septic system working as it should. Let’s dive right in to the two different kinds of bacteria found in your septic system.
1.    Aerobic 
This type of bacteria needs an oxygen-rich environment to do its job in your septic system. This bacteria is the more active of the two, making it the more effective bacteria for breaking down the solid waste that ends up in your septic system. Aerobic bacteria is also a lot more sensitive to climate changes which is why it lives in the upper, rougher part of your septic tanks. 

2.    Anaerobic
This kind of bacteria prefers an oxygen-free environment, which is why this typically lives in the lower parts of your septic tank. This type of bacteria is much slower than aerobic and while it isn’t any good at breaking down solid waste, it’s best at breaking down the sludge and scum that builds up on your tanks over time. 

Is there such a thing a too much bacteria?

While the two types of bacteria that live in your septic system work together to keep your septic tank running, having too much of one kind is bad for your system. 
Your septic system relies on an equal balance of the two bacteria, and having too much of one can overpower the other. So if you have too much anaerobic bacteria, the solid waste can build up since there is a lack of aerobic bacteria and vice versa. 

Choose Metro Septic Plumbing!

By choosing Metro Septic Plumbing, we will always make sure your septic tank system is working as it should. Having to deal with septic tank issues is a nightmare and we know that. That’s why we offer every plumbing service you can imagine – we put our clients first and we want your house to function as it should.
Give Metro Septic Plumbing a call today!