Do I need to add anything to my septic system to keep it working properly?

No, adding products may actually harm your septic system

• Commercial products that claim to clean septic "tanks" turn organic material into a liquid that goes into a septic "field"
• If a septic system is to fail, it generally fails in the drainfield
• Increased nutrients entering the drainfield can increase the potential for water contamination

Most types of toilet paper are proper to use

How do household cleaners affect my system?

When used as recommended, most will not adversely affect tank operation. Drain cleaners are an exception since a small amount can kill bacteria in the septic tank

Do I need to leave any material in my septic tank to "restart" the biological process?

No

Click here to read about how a septic system works.

Contacts for questions or concerns

Call the Macomb County Health Dept at 586-469-5467

Call the MSU Extension Office at 586-469-5180

Call the National Small Flows Clearinghouse, which is funded by the USEPA, at 1-800-624-8301

Do you have a question that is not listed?
Call us at 586-469-5180. 

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