Sewerage

Live bacteria for septic tanks

The problem of cleaning cesspools and septic tanks is familiar to all owners of private houses, since this process must not only be effective, but also safe for humans and the environment. If earlier bleach was the most effective remedy for removing unpleasant sewer odors, today you can find live bacteria for septic tanks and cesspools on sale.

In specialized stores, products of domestic and foreign manufacturers are presented, which have different names and are somewhat different in composition. To understand how these tools work, and how they need to be used, you should first understand what they are and in what forms they are produced.

In order not to create inconvenience associated with "aromas" and clouds of insects that fly to these smells to latrines, cesspools and septic tanks are periodically cleaned. However, even an empty hole is quite capable of emitting an unpleasant odor, which is difficult to get rid of. Disinfection with bleach does not give a long-term effect, but during the period of its implementation, the “aroma” of the sewer is mixed with the caustic, nasty, eye-stinging, and, moreover, the smell of chlorine that is dangerous for the respiratory system.

In addition, bleach kills microflora not only in the pit, but also in the soil into which it inevitably falls. As a result of its impact, the decomposition of sewage, which always proceeds naturally, stops, and even weeds stop growing on the beds located close to the outdoor toilet.

Therefore, preparations have been developed that accelerate the decomposition of organic and some inorganic residues. Such compositions are obtained by deep cultivation of soil bacteria, from which those types of microorganisms were selected that are able to process human waste as quickly as possible.

Naturally, the resulting preparations do not include pathogenic bacteria, as well as those that emit methane in the course of their vital activity.

Such biological preparations contain an initial dose of enzymes that help bacterial colonies to undergo the necessary adaptation in the shortest possible time, and in the future to act more efficiently and quickly.

Once in a favorable environment and under the influence of enzymes, microorganisms multiply rapidly, which speeds up their work. If the process of launching them into a cesspool or septic tank is carried out in the warm season, then the results of their activities can be observed in a few days. They consist in clarification of the liquid in the pit, a significant reduction in the saturation of an unpleasant odor, as well as a decrease in the volume of sewage. In some cases, waste processed by microorganisms is suitable as fertilizer, since biological products do not harm the environment and are also safe for humans.

Types of biological products

There are three types of biological products, the main difference between which is in the conditions necessary for their life, development and processing of organic matter. So, on sale you can find strains of anaerobic, aerobic microorganisms, as well as combined formulations called bioactivators.

Anaerobic microorganisms

For the qualitative functioning of anaerobic microbes, oxygen supply from the outside is not required. Therefore, such microorganisms are not particularly suitable for cesspools, but rather are intended to be added to closed chambers of septic tanks, in which they will contribute to the fastest decomposition of waste products.

As a result of the activity of bacteria, organic matter is broken down into insoluble solid waste, which sinks to the bottom of the septic tank, where the process of their further decomposition continues, and the liquid is purified and clarified. When a large amount of sediment accumulates at the bottom, it is removed with the help of a sewage machine (it cannot be used as a fertilizer), but water purified by bacteria, after appropriate settling and post-treatment, is even used by some owners to irrigate the garden.

The disadvantages of biological products containing anaerobic microorganisms include the following:

In the closed space of a septic tank, during the operation of some bacteria, gas is released from the waste - methane, which in itself has a rather unpleasant odor.
When using this group of microorganisms, wastewater is not completely cleaned, but only by 65÷70%.
Mandatory periodic cleaning of the primary chamber of the septic tank is required using specialized equipment.
It is impossible to use recycled waste in full for soil fertilization.

Aerobic microorganisms

For high-quality work of aerobic biological products, unlike anaerobic ones, oxygen is needed, so they can be used both in septic tanks and in cesspools. But, if this type of microorganisms is used to clean the closed container of the septic tank, then it is necessary to install a special deep-seated compressor (aerator) in it, which will enrich the liquid with oxygen.

In the first chamber of the septic tank, anaerobic microorganisms "work", in the second - aerobic microorganisms, for which forced aeration is provided

How does a properly equipped septic tank work?

The design of this treatment plant and its volume must comply with certain requirements. More information about the necessary calculations, about the variety of models and about the rules - in a special publication of our portal.

In the process of their work, aerobic microorganisms usually release carbon dioxide and slightly increase the temperature of their environment. Due to the fact that methane is not a product of waste processing by such bacteria, the unpleasant odor is almost completely eliminated.

This type of bacteriological compositions is able to maximally clean the effluents entering the septic tank or cesspool, leaving a minimum amount of solid sediment. The sediment that accumulates during the processing of wastewater is also periodically removed from the pit or septic tank and, by the way, can be used as fertilizer - it is often dumped into compost pits or heaps.

Bioactivators usually consist of several varieties of microorganisms and enzymes. These preparations can be universal or have a narrow purpose.

For example, starting compositions of bioactivators are used to revive the work of microorganisms previously launched into a septic tank or cesspool after a long break, for example, in a country house at the end of the winter period.

There are special preparations of enhanced action. They are used in cases where the system is heavily contaminated. These bioactivators are used for a limited time, and then again you need to switch to standard formulations.

Preparations for narrowly targeted use are intended for cleaning a septic tank or pit from certain types of contaminants, for example, soap sludge or a large amount of fat accumulated in the pipeline or on the walls of the tank. Such biological products are also used not constantly, but as needed.

Properly selected complex compositions of microorganisms are much more active, show the ability to process not only soft organic waste, but also various fibrous structures, including paper.

Such complex biological products are the most resistant to detergents and other household chemicals, which, as a rule, are present in wastewater. These compounds are environmentally friendly, therefore safe for humans, the environment and for the sewerage system itself.

Bioactivators are able to reduce the amount of solid waste up to 75÷80%. In addition, when used correctly, they improve the patency of sewer pipes, prevent silting of cesspools and septic tanks, and neutralize pathogenic microbes.

The positive results of using bioactivators include the following:

The fastest processes of decomposition of organic and inorganic compounds are provided.
There is almost complete elimination of unpleasant odors.
The volumes of solid insoluble and non-decomposing sediment are significantly reduced.
Not only the septic tank is cleaned, but the entire sewer pipeline.
The development of harmful pathogenic microbes is prevented.
It is possible to use these compositions in almost any sewer and treatment system.
A wide range of various narrowly targeted and universal bioactivators allows you to choose exactly the one that is most needed in a particular case.

Conditions for the effective operation of biological products

An experiment demonstrating the effectiveness of bioactivators in favorable conditions: "A" - the initial state of the waste, "B" - 12 hours after the onset of bacterial activity

When filling sewage tanks with biological products, it is very important to always keep in mind that they contain live microorganisms that can multiply and work effectively only in the right conditions for them. Therefore, in order for them to start acting in the right direction, when they are launched into the masses of waste, certain rules must be followed:

The waste collector must contain a nutrient medium for bacteria, that is, there must be a certain amount of liquid that exceeds the level of the settled mass containing solid fractions. Therefore, it makes no sense to launch biological products into a new or just cleaned waste container.
The septic tank or pit must be regularly maintained, that is, replenished with liquid and waste. If there is not enough nutrient medium for bacteria, they will quickly lose activity and then die.
Toilet cleaners or laundry detergents should not contain chlorine, as it is detrimental to almost all living microorganisms.
Do not allow antibiotics to enter the waste container - they, like chlorine, can kill bacteria colonies.
Such compositions actively function at temperatures from +5 to +50 degrees. The lower the ambient temperature, the slower the process of waste decomposition. In winter, at low temperatures, microorganisms hibernate, but do not die, and when warming and the presence of a favorable "atmosphere" biologics again enter the active phase.

Bacteria will not begin to act effectively if biological products are not prepared for this process. One cannot hope that by throwing tablets or pouring powder into a pit or septic tank, the matter can be considered completed, and the composition will begin to perform its direct functions.

- In order for everything to take place with guaranteed efficiency, the biological product must first be diluted in clean, chlorine-free water. To do this, it is collected in a bucket and left for at least a day to settle.

- Then, the water must be poured into another clean container, since in the first one a sediment from substances harmful to bacteria can form at the bottom.

After that, a biological product is poured into the purified water. In addition to it, it is recommended to add half a liter of kefir, which will become a preliminary feeding for bacteria at the initial stage of their awakening from hibernation.

- The whole mixture is stirred and left to infuse for a couple of hours. And only after that it can be poured into a container with waste.

- After pouring the solution into the sewer or directly into the septic tank, it is not recommended to use the outhouse for 4-5 hours. Therefore, it is best to carry out this “refueling” process late in the evening, so that the microorganisms adapt and acquire the necessary activity overnight.

What should be considered when choosing a biological product?

Microorganisms must break down organic matter into simple constituents such as water, carbon dioxide, solid sediment, etc. Therefore, the choice of bacterial species will directly depend on the conditions of their use. In any case, when purchasing a biological product, it is necessary to carefully study the instructions on its packaging and take into account some factors:

For septic tanks and cesspools, preparations of various compositions can be used.

So, for street toilets, tablets or a dry mixture are used, on the packaging of which there is an indication that it is intended specifically for cesspools. Waste processed by bacteria from such biological products does not pose any environmental threat to the environment.

For septic tanks, compositions are suitable that include live bacteria that can process not only organic waste, but also the remains of household chemicals, and at the same time survive in a fairly aggressive environment.

The higher the concentration of microorganisms in the selected composition, the less often it will have to be added to the waste container.
Since the drugs are sold in packages of various packaging, it is necessary to choose them correctly by weight for a certain volume of collected effluents.
A bioactivator, consisting of several types of microorganisms, will work much more efficiently, processing different types of waste that has fallen into the tank.
It is recommended to choose biological products with a minimum amount of dry residue formed - this indicator (in percent) is usually indicated on the package or in the instructions attached to the composition. Following this recommendation will allow you to clean the septic tank much less frequently.

A brief overview of popular effective biologics for septic tanks

In specialized stores, a considerable number of various complex and narrowly focused biological products are presented. Some of them, which have gained wide popularity and proven their effectiveness, will be discussed below.

"Vodogray"

Bioactivator "Vodogray" of Ukrainian production includes strains of living microorganisms that are in a dormant state. When the necessary conditions for their awakening are created, which are indicated on the package, the bacteria pass to the active phase of life.

Biological preparations brand "Vodogray"

A similar biological product is intended for the processing of feces, paper, fats, vegetable peels and other waste that enters cesspools and septic tanks. It decomposes them into carbon dioxide, oxygen, water and sediment, which is approximately 3÷4% of the total volume of processed content.

Waste products are environmentally friendly and are often used as fertilizers.

The bioactivator prevents the formation of large layers of silt in the bottom of cesspools and septic tanks, which allows you to almost completely abandon the services of specialized equipment for pumping fecal matter. In addition, the action of this drug has a beneficial effect on the operation of the drainage system, cleaning it from the inside of viscous layers that prevent the gradual penetration of water into the soil.

"Vodogray +" - a special composition that has a higher concentration, is aimed at enhanced cleaning of sewerage pipelines from deposits on the walls and accumulated sediments, which often happens in siphon nodes or at bends. It also helps in eliminating unpleasant odors. It absolutely does not damage the inner surfaces of pipes when dissolving organic contaminants accumulated on them.

Application of the drug:

The powdered mixture is taken from the bag with a dry spoon and poured with settled, unfiltered water at room temperature. After insisting the solution for 20 ÷ 25 minutes, it is poured into a waste container - a cesspool or into a septic tank, through a sink or toilet.
For the active work of bacteria, it is necessary to provide air access to the container, and for this, a small hole or slot is made in the sewer manhole cover, unless, of course, a special ventilation pipe was previously provided.

After pouring the drug into a septic tank or cesspool, it is necessary to exclude washing powder or other chemicals from getting into them during the day, otherwise the bacteria may not take root in an aggressive environment. After this time, detergents can be used freely and drained into the sewer in the usual amount.
The effect of the bacteria will be noticeable after about 14 days, and its first sign is usually the disappearance of the unpleasant odor. It is this period that is necessary for the reproduction and the beginning of the active work of microorganisms.
It will take two to four months to completely process the contents of the cesspool. To achieve the expected full-fledged effect, it is necessary to add a small amount of a biological product to the pit every month - the required amount of monthly additions is specified in the instructions, depending on the volume of the tank.
High activity of bacteria is observed at temperatures from +4 to +40 degrees. This factor must also be taken into account when using biocompositions.

Video: the use of a bacterial bioactivator for septic tanks "Vodogray"

"Atmosbio"

"Atmosbio" is a French-made bioactivator, which is made on the basis of enzymes and microorganisms grown in a special way. Suitable for all types of cesspools and septic tanks. Its composition actively and effectively decomposes faeces, eliminates odor, liquefies the crust and bottom sediment formed on the surface, and also significantly reduces the amount of accumulated waste.

French-made bioactivator - "Atmosbio"

In addition, the product, launched through the sink or toilet, simultaneously cleans the sewer pipes from plaque, which also increases the efficiency of the system and helps to reduce the use of water for flushing waste.

Application of the drug:

"Atmosbio" can be launched into the waste container both in a dry and diluted state. When the preparation falls asleep in a toilet bowl or sink in a dry form, it is necessary to wash it off with 12 ÷ 15 liters of water.
Having filled the container with the composition, it is necessary to refrain from using it for 4-5 hours, and not to allow chemicals to enter it for 15-20 hours.
The package "Atmosbio" contains 24 packages with the drug. In a septic tank designed for a family of two or three people, one such package is added about once a week.

"Mikrosim Septi Treat"

Microzyme Septi Treat is a bioactivator produced in Russia, consisting of natural enzymes and living saprophytic microflora containing 12 strains of soil bacteria.

The drug recycles waste, turning it into an environmentally friendly fertilizer, which incorporates beneficial soil bacteria. In addition, such a composition has the property of not only cleaning pipes from accumulations of waste, but also tightening their walls with a film that prevents blockages.

Prices for the drug for septic tanks "Mikrozim Septi Trit"

Microzym Septi Treat

Application of the drug:

For containers with a volume of one or two cubic meters, it is necessary to add 250 grams of this bioactivator once a month until the pit is completely cleaned. Further, it will be possible to switch to 50 ÷ 100 grams per month, and this will be quite enough to keep the septic tank or pit in good condition.

Do not allow the moisture in the container to dry out. If this starts to happen, you need to add a few buckets of water there.
If a biological product is purchased to clean a country toilet, then while keeping the pit wet, it will take only 300 ÷ 500 grams for one, and sometimes even for two seasons.
If the pit has a volume of 3 ÷ 5 cubic meters, then a single dose per month should be 250 ÷ 500 grams until complete cleaning, and 125 ÷ 250 grams per month to keep the tank clean.
For septic tanks, depending on their volume, a biological product will require from 3 to 6 kg per year.

Saneks

"Saneks" - this drug, manufactured by a Polish manufacturer, can be called an achievement of biotechnology. The microorganisms that make up this product are able to produce special enzymes that process organic fibers, fats, and, of course, human waste.

"Sanex" has a highly effective action even on solid and fibrous organic matter

It is suitable for cleaning any kind of sewage tanks, recycles waste to a state that is neutral in chemical composition and odor, and the sediment after their decomposition is only 3% of the total volume.

Prices for the drug "Sanex"

The manufacturer guarantees the sufficiency of one 100-gram package for a toilet used in country conditions for a period of 14 months, and with the second tab - as much as 16 months.

To use this product for cleaning a septic tank with a volume of 1.5÷2 cubic meters, which is used constantly by a family of 3÷4 people, it is necessary to apply a triple monthly dose for the first time. Provided that one 100-gram package is enough for the above volume of the septic tank for 3 months, then the primary triple dose will be about also about 100 grams. Further, a month later, the same weight of the drug is made, but for three months.

"Doctor Robik"

Bioactivator "Doctor Robik"

This US-patented drug is manufactured by domestic manufacturers. It consists of several types of bacteria that are inert to chemicals and biological agents. It breaks down phenols, fats and various organic substances well. Within a month, the unpleasant smell of sewerage is significantly reduced, and then the total volume of the mass in the container decreases.

Some types of dry and liquid concentrated bioactivators of the Doctor Robik product line

Several types of this bioactivator are produced, which have a narrowly focused effect. Their marking differs from each other by a digital designation. For example, you can list some of them:

"Doctor Robik 57" - designed for heavily polluted sewer systems and overfilled cesspools.
"Doctor Robik 87" - this version of the biological product is designed to combat household chemicals that enter the sewerage drains, and to protect microorganisms that decompose organic substances. It should be used in combination with one of the main compositions.
"Doctor Robik 106" is a bioactivator of enhanced action, which has 6 strains of bacteria in its composition. Such a drug is able to process heavily decomposing waste that enters the septic tank and cesspools - paper, fats, detergents and even natural fabrics.
"Doctor Robik 109" - this composition is used for permanent use, after enhanced cleaning of the container.

All biological products of this brand are environmentally friendly, so they are safe for humans and the environment.

In addition to the mixtures mentioned above, other biological products are also on sale that can facilitate the cleaning of sanitary areas at home or summer cottages. In any case, when purchasing such funds, it is necessary to first examine the cesspool or septic tank in order to determine which one, in terms of effectiveness and purpose, will be the most optimal tool. In any case, before purchasing, you must carefully study the packaging and instructions for use.

In summing up, we can conclude that, using such preparations, it is quite possible to achieve high-quality cleaning and splitting of waste products, getting rid of an unpleasant smell on the site, as well as reducing the cost of calling special equipment. In addition, by choosing some of the biological compounds, you can even save on fertilizers for the soil in the garden or vegetable garden. Periodically extracting from the pit the sediment left after the work of microorganisms, it is placed in a compost pit for ripening, and then distributed along with the entire compost mass over the site.