What to Use for Septic Blockage

Tools

• Septic backup can be tackled with a variety of tools, and if the blockage is located in your plumbing, rather than in the septic tank itself, this tools may clear the blockage. A plunger may be the most common tool; use it first before springing for additional equipment. A pipe snake can be inserted into a kitchen drain that is clogged and may remove any physical clogs from the system.

Chemicals

• A variety of commercial products are available that can help to clear septic blockages, or break down solids in the septic tank itself. Drano or similar drain clearer can be used to clear kitchen blockages from your garbage disposal, but look for a toilet-specific clog buster if you plan to flush a chemical-based product. Your local supermarket clerk or home improvement store employee can assist you.

All-Natural or Organic Alternatives

• Certain septic tank products contain bacteria or microbial additives that aid in the breakdown of waste solids in the septic tank. Over time, the use of too many chemical-based septic tank products can reduce the tank's ability to break down its own waste as too many bacteria are killed off from the chemicals. Look for products that can reintroduce bacteria to your septic system and restart the bacterial composition within.

  You can also apply equal parts baking soda and white vinegar to the area that is clogged, and flush the mixture down the pipes with water. The foaming action can break up clogs and is environmentally friendly.

When to Call a Professional

• You should make a habit of calling in professionals to pump our your septic tank on a regular basis. The duration between such pumping appointments will depend on the size of your septic tank as well as whether your home contains a garbage disposal. Most home septic tanks should be pumped every three years, but if your home has a garbage disposal, you should have it pumped once per year.

  Also call in a professional to clear your septic system if you experience blockage after flooding in your area. You may need to have your tank pumped earlier than planned if excess water or flood solids (like mud) entered your tank.