Chlorine tablets in Bethel, OH can be essential accessories for aerobic septic systems. However, if you use the wrong kind, or misuse them completely, you risk poisoning your entire operation. Here are the common questions we receive about chlorine tablets, and the answers you need.
Why does my septic system need chlorine?
Chlorine is used for wastewater in septic systems. It is part of the cleaning process for aerobic systems that disinfects waste so it is safe for transport. Chlorine tablets are not for drinking water or wells.
How should I use it?
Chlorine can harm the helpful bacteria in septic tanks, so it is important to use it correctly. The instructions on most chlorine tablet products recommend one to two tablets inserted into the wastewater tank each month for every person living in the household. If your household is especially busy one month, be careful not to clog the chlorination tube by only inserting five tablets at a time.
While this is the standard, it does not apply to all households. You may have a college student who only stays at home a couple days per month, or your house may be left unoccupied for most of the day on weekdays. You may also have many houseguests one month or use low-water laundry systems. Therefore, you can likely stray from the set guidelines to better serve your situation.
Is it possible to use too many tablets?
Yes. As mentioned, too much chlorination kills good bacteria that break up waste. Also, while chlorination tubes are made for 12 to 15 tablets, it is not possible to release them all at once. Having them sit in the tube too long can swell the lower column of tablets, so the ones on top are never released. It is also possible for tablets to dissolve all at once and leave a gooey mess that does not see the inside of your tank and requires you to clean up. Therefore, despite the capacity potential, never insert more than five tablets at a time.
I maintain a hot tub and/or swimming pool and already keep chlorine tablets on hand. Can I use those for the septic system too?
Never use chlorine used for swimming pools! Made from trichloroisocyanuric acid, they dissolve slowly and do not offer the same degree of disinfection. They can also cause your tank to explode because they release gas that builds up and causes pressure due to having no place to dissipate. Pool chlorine is also not approved by the EPA for wastewater treatment.
What happens if I use the wrong type of chlorine?
You will need to remove the tablets not yet released and clean your chlorination tube. If you have been doing this for a while, you will also have to arrange to have your tank inspected to check for any breaches or damage from gas buildup. In more serious cases, you may need to have the tank flushed out.
What is the right type of chlorine?
Chlorine products made for septic tanks contain calcium hypochlorite. It is approved by the EPA for this purpose, and will kill 99 percent of bacteria within 10 minutes. Read the warnings and follow instructions to ensure safe use.
Gullett Sanitation Services, Inc. offers sewer system services and supplies, including chlorine tablets in Bethel, OH. Call us for a consultation to see if chlorine would benefit your system.