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9 Best Septic Tank Treatments in 2024: Reviews & Top Picks

Septic tank waste system

Septic tank waste system

Septic tanks are important fixtures in any home. Since most septic tanks are installed underground, it is not easy to remember their routine maintenance practices. Septic tanks operate daily; therefore, if maintenance is ignored, you can easily end up with a smelly mess in your home.

The best way to ensure your septic tanks are running effectively is to perform regular septic tank treatment. This will boost the bacteria in the tank, allowing it to degrade the household wastes effectively. A regular dose of treatment will also ensure the septic tank works normally and does not wear out prematurely.

This article will highlight some of the best septic tank treatments this year. We will also offer a buying guide to make your purchase decision easier. Read on to learn more.

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A Quick Look at Our Favorites in 2024

Rating Image Product Details
Best Overall
Winner
Cabin Obsession Septic Tank Treatment Cabin Obsession Septic Tank Treatment
  • Offers a full-year treatment
  • Has odor control qualities
  • Eco-friendly and lacks chemical compounds
  • Best Value
    Second place
    Green Gobbler SEPTIC SAVER Bacteria Enzyme Pacs Green Gobbler SEPTIC SAVER Bacteria Enzyme Pacs
  • Features anti-corrosive properties
  • Has odor control capabilities
  • Protects drains, pipes, and tank interior
  • Premium Choice
    Third place
    Walex Bio-Active Septic Tank Treatment Walex Bio-Active Septic Tank Treatment
  • Dissolves solid wastes in the septic tank
  • Retails with one year’s worth of treatments
  • Safe for use with plumbing systems
  • Instant Power 1868 Septic Shock Instant Power 1868 Septic Shock
  • Has odor-eliminating properties
  • It is affordable
  • Digests soap, paper, fats, grease, and human wastes
  • GREEN PIG 53 Live Septic Tank Treatment GREEN PIG 53 Live Septic Tank Treatment
  • Offers two years' supply of treatment
  • Odor eliminating properties
  • Affordable price point
  • The 9 Best Septic Tank Treatments

    1. Cabin Obsession Septic Tank Treatment – Best Overall

    Cabin Obsession Septic Tank Treatment

    Type: Biological additives
    Tank Compatibility: 1,000 gallons
    Lifespan: 1 month per pod

    Cabin Obsession Septic Tank Treatment is one of the most popular septic tank treatments found in most homes. It retails with 12 prepackaged monthly doses that are used with a 1,000-gallon tank.

    This treatment option offers one full year of septic tank protection. A single treatment pod contains billions of bacteria that help break down wastes in scum and sludge layers. It also replaces dead bacteria in the septic tank.

    This treatment is moderately priced and eco-friendly, making it the best overall septic tank treatment. It does not contain any chemical additives, which makes it safe for the environment. It features odor-control qualities that will keep your home smelling fresh and clean after application.

    If your home has four or more occupied rooms or features septic tanks that exceed 100 gallons, consider using two pods per month instead of one.

    Pros
    • Offers a full-year treatment
    • Has odor control qualities
    • Eco-friendly and lacks chemical compounds
    • Moderately affordable
    Cons
    • Large households may need more than one pod for the treatment to be effective
    • The monthly treatments have a shorter lifespan than other treatment options

    2. Green Gobbler SEPTIC SAVER Bacteria Enzyme Pacs – Best Value

    Green Gobbler SEPTIC SAVER Bacteria Enzyme Pacs

    Type: Biological additives
    Tank Compatibility: 1,500 gallons
    Lifespan: 1 month per pod

    If you are looking for the best septic tank treatment for the money, look no further than Green Gobbler SEPTIC SAVER Bacteria Enzyme Pacs. This product guarantees a six months treatment plan and uses biodegradable compounds that are safe for the environment.

    The product features a powerful enzyme mixture and bacteria sold in a pod. The bacteria can effectively break down fats, oils, grease, paper, and other clogging compounds in household waste.

    Green Gobbler Septic Saver pods are very affordable (a fraction of the cost of other septic tank treatment options), which is why it is surprising that the product comes with anti-corrosive additives and odor-elimination features. It not only breaks down household wastes, but it also helps protect pipes, drains, and the septic tank interior.

    Pros
    • Features anti-corrosive properties
    • Has odor control capabilities
    • Protects drains, pipes, and tank interior
    • Retails with a 6 months treatments supply
    • Degrades grease, fats, oils, clogs, grease, and more
    Cons
    • Features fewer pods than other treatment options
    • Does not degrade hair

    3. Walex Bio-Active Septic Tank Treatment – Premium Choice

    Walex Bio-Active Septic Tank Treatment

    Type: Bacteria additives
    Tank Compatibility: 1,500 gallons
    Lifespan: 1 month per pod

    Like Cabin Obsession Septic tank treatment, Walex Bio-Active Septic Tank Treatment is also an effective septic tank treatment option that retails in 12 moderately priced monthly doses. This treatment formula can effectively treat a 1,500-gallon septic tank with ease.

    It features pre-measured pods with billions of beneficial bacteria that replace dead bacteria in the tank that harmful cleaning products might have killed when dumped down toilets and sinks. The pods in Walex Bio-Active Septic Tank Treatment are also eco-friendly because they dissolve wastes in a way that does not harm the environment.

    This treatment option relies on septic tank-specific enzymes to break down proteins, fats, paper, and other solid wastes that bacteria inside the septic tank cannot digest. Furthermore, the affluence released from the septic tank helps reduce soil nitrates and encourages the growth of greener grass in your yard.

    However, this treatment product may leave some residue on the toilet interior after use. Therefore, consider using it before cleaning the toilet to avoid repeatedly scrubbing the toilet bowl. Also, once you remove a pod from the package, ensure that you reseal it for future use.

    Furthermore, remember to store this treatment product in a cool and dry place.

    Pros
    • Dissolves solid wastes in the septic tank
    • Retails with one year’s worth of treatments
    • Safe for use with plumbing systems
    • Easy to use
    • Great for all plumbing applications
    • Prevents bad smells and sludge buildup
    Cons
    • Some residue may be left on the toilet after use

    4. Instant Power 1868 Septic Shock

    Instant Power 1868 Septic Shock

    Type: Organic solvent
    Tank Compatibility: 1,500 gallons
    Lifespan: Use as needed

    If you are experiencing clogging issues in your septic tank drain, Instant Power 1868 Septic Shock is the most suitable treatment option. Using this product could not be any easier; you simply need to pour the entire bottle contents into your toilet and flush it to push it down to the septic tank.

    Once in the septic tank, the product works instantly, where it eliminates enzymes to prevent nasty orders from permeating your home.

    Instant Power 1868 Septic Shock is also an eco-friendly treatment option because it uses protease, lipase, alpha-amylase, cellulose, and other powerful enzymes to degrade household wastes. This product is effective at digesting paper, soap, grease, and fats at a cheap price.

    Despite being an effective unclogging option, you should avoid using this product for regular maintenance treatment because it is engineered specifically to handle clogging issues. If used regularly, it can easily overpower a functional septic system.

    Pros
    • Has odor-eliminating properties
    • It is affordable
    • Digests soap, paper, fats, grease, and human wastes
    Cons
    • Unsuitable for frequent use

    5. GREEN PIG 53 Live Septic Tank Treatment

    GREEN PIG 53 Live Septic Tank Treatment

    Type: Bacteria additives
    Tank Compatibility: 500 to 1,500 gallons
    Lifespan: 3 to 4 months

    If you are looking for a bulk treatment option, the GREEN PIG 53 Live Septic Tank Treatment comes with pre-measured pods for use after every three months. The product comes with eight pods in one purchase, ensuring your septic tank is protected with two years’ worth of treatment.

    This treatment formula is suitable for use with tanks of 1,500 gallons in size. However, smaller tanks can also utilize the same pod but with less frequency.

    The GREEN PIG 53 Live Septic Tank Treatment pods are eco-friendly due to the septic-specific enzymes and bacteria that help digest sludge, paper, grease, and other organic wastes.

    Furthermore, it is cheap and features odor-eliminating enzymes that protect your household occupants from the rancid smells produced when breaking down wastes in your septic system.

    Unfortunately, GREEN PIG 53 Live Septic Tank Treatment does not work well with households that use excessive toilet paper. Therefore, it is not ideal for large families with young children.

    Pros
    • Offers two years’ supply of treatment
    • Odor eliminating properties
    • Affordable price point
    • Digests paper, grease, sludge, and human wastes
    Cons
    • Unsuitable for households with high toilet paper consumption

    6. Down John Septic Tank Treatment

    Down John Septic Tank Treatment

    Type: 100% non-corrosive and non-toxic treatment formula
    Tank Compatibility: 1,000 gallons
    Lifespan: One year

    The Down John Septic Tank Treatment is a popular septic tank treatment option in many households because of its reasonable price tag and performance. It is a worthwhile investment guaranteed to give you good value for its price because it comes with a pack of three units.

    To use this treatment product, you simply need to set aside one minute of your time for three consecutive days to clean and maintain your septic system. Furthermore, a single package is enough to protect your septic tank for a whole year, great value for the time and money invested.

    This product is also easy to use. You only need to empty the activated charcoal pack down your toilet and let it sit for a while before flushing the contents down the drain. On the second day of treatment, flush the liquid blend of bacteria down the drain, and on the third day, add the highly activated enzymes. By sparing 3 minutes for three days, you will be able to create a clog-free and powerful system in your septic tank.

    The digestive enzymes and bacteria will help unclog the drain pipes and break down any clogs while ensuring no odor permeates your home. Furthermore, this product is eco-friendly and non-toxic, making it safe for the environment. It is also safe for your children and pets because all the ingredients used are thoroughly tested and proven safe.

    Pros
    • Can protect your tank for one whole year
    • Digests chemicals and household grease that would have otherwise killed beneficial bacteria in the septic tank
    • Improved efficiency
    • Reduces greenhouse gasses and eliminates nitrates
    Cons
    • Not effective at dissolving hard sludge

    7. Bio-Clean Drain Septic Bacteria

    Bio-Clean Drain Septic Bacteria

    Type: Bacteria additives
    Tank Compatibility: 2 lbs per 1,000 gallons
    Lifespan: 1 to 3 months

    This is a worthwhile septic treatment product because it delivers what it promises. As promised in its packaging, the Bio-Clean Drain Septic Bacteria is a uniquely formulated microbial formula that can remove clogs in your septic system, leaving the septic tank 100% clean. The formula can even effectively break down human fecal matter.

    This product features enzyme-producing bacteria that can digest household wastes, including strong and stubborn sludge. Not only that, but the formula also helps prevent chock-ups in the septic system, thus minimizing sludge buildup in the drainpipes.

    This treatment option is also multipurpose and can be used to clear up clogs in the plumbing system. Therefore, even if you have a clogged sink or toilet, you can still use this powdery formula for unclogging.

    Furthermore, the highly potent ingredients used in the formula are non-poisonous and environmentally safe. It does not produce fumes and heat commonly associated with other septic tank treatment options. Therefore, it is an eco-friendly option to go for.

    If you have a 1,000-gallon septic tank at home, you will need to use at least 2 lbs. formula containers to effectively clear up any clogs. Simply mix the powdery formula with water and let the enzymes do their job.

    Pros
    • Odor eliminating properties
    • Friendly price tag
    • 100% safe treatment formula
    • Can effectively dissolve grease, household wastes, and fecal matter
    Cons
    • May need more than one application because the results are not long-lasting

    8. Rid-X Septic Tank Treatment Enzymes

    Rid-X Septic Tank Treatment Enzymes

    Type: Bacteria additives
    Tank Compatibility: 700 to 1,500 gallons
    Lifespan: 1 month

    Rid-X Septic Tank Treatment Enzymes is a popular treatment choice for septic professionals because of its higher efficiency at preventing costly septic tank chock-ups.

    It features healthy enzymes and active bacteria that dissolve sludge including household chemicals, protein, and toilet paper that notoriously clog septic tanks. The bacteria also neutralize harmful compounds in the septic tank to keep your septic system running smoothly.

    Unlike other septic tank treatment options that retail in powder form, Rid-X Septic Tank Treatment Enzymes comes with 2 or 3 components in one pack. It is also straightforward to use. Simply pour the formula down the toilet bowl and it will immediately start working.

    If you just want to maintain your septic system or tank with this formula, you can skip steps 2 and 3 and you do not necessarily have to add water. Furthermore, experts suggest applying this treatment option at least once a month to avoid septic system failure.

    Another noteworthy feature of this product is that it is safe and natural. The active enzymes and bacteria will be gentle on drain pipes and other plumbing accessories. Therefore, you can use these treatment options without worrying about any side effects.

    Pros
    • Prevents septic tank backup issues
    • Has an easy application that only requires flushing
    • Multipurpose product that can be used in toilets, sinks, and kitchen drains
    • USDA approved
    Cons
    • Not ideal for beginners because the directions for use on the packaging are not cleared

    9. Black Diamond Stoneworks GET SERIOUS Grease Trap Treatment

    Black Diamond Stoneworks GET SERIOUS Grease Trap Treatment

    Type: Bacteria additives
    Tank Compatibility: 1,000 gallons
    Lifespan: 3 to 4 months

    Though not a popular septic tank treatment option in many households, the Black Diamond brand has recently been making waves by producing one of the best-in-class GET SERIOUS septic tank treatment products. This product is popular among professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

    The product features commercial-grade septic treatment enzymes that have raised the standards for toilet treatment with their GET SERIOUS product range. You can rely on this treatment product to get rid of sludge from your drain pipes and clean stubborn grease.

    Despite being a high-end septic treatment product, it also offers great value for its price. It guarantees commercial-level septic tank treatment that has a longer lifespan than other treatment products at its price range. This solution is especially ideal for slow-draining lines and sinks in your household.

    Furthermore, it does not interfere with the longevity of the drain pipes in the long run, like other products. It also cleans the pipes to prevent the buildup of grease on the surface.

    The formula has odor control properties, which block rancid smells emanating from the pipes from the clogging. Unfortunately, it is a bit more expensive than the average option and does not offer quality assurance, which is a major drawback in the septic tank treatment market.

    Pros
    • Effective at cleaning sewage pipes
    • Removes the intolerable septic tank smell
    • Consists of millions of beneficial bacteria
    • Trusted by septic tank cleaning professionals
    Cons
    • Expensive price tag

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    Buyers Guide: Choosing the Best Septic Tank Treatments

    Factors to Consider

    Several septic tank treatment products are retailing in the market. This tends to create choice paralysis, especially for people using these products for the first time. To help you make an informed purchase decision, read the considerations below.

    Tank Compatibility

    Before you buy any sort of septic tank treatment, the first—if not the most important—thing you should do is find out the size of your septic tank.

    For instance, if you purchase a treatment formula intended for a 1,000-gallon tank, but your tank can only handle 500 gallons, the formula might overpower the ecosystem of the bacteria inside the tank and possibly alter the enzyme balance.

    On the other hand, if the treatment you purchase is not strong enough for your tank size, it will be rendered ineffective at maintaining the septic tank’s health. Therefore, ensure that you know the exact size of your tank in gallons to avoid these issues. Once you know the exact value, refer to the size whenever purchasing treatment options.

    Format

    Septic tank treatments are sold in various forms, which are meant to make the products easier to use and more effective. They usually retail in tablets, powders, pods, and liquids.

    • Pods. This is one of the most popular formats for septic tank treatments. Similar to dishwashing detergent pods, septic treatment Pods feature a water-soluble cover that makes them easier to handle. You simply need to drop the pod into your toilet and flush. The pod casing will dissolve and release the treatment into the septic tank. It is one of the easiest formats to use because it does not require measuring, is not messy, and has a delayed time release.
    • Tablets. Tablets may be used with the same methodology as pods but they do not have a water-soluble protective casing. Instead, the tablet must first dissolve in the tank to dissolve sludge, which takes longer than a pod. Tablets are also easy-to-use treatment options because they are sold in measured doses.
    • Powder. Powder treatments are slightly more complicated to use than tablets and pods because they require one to measure the exact dose before carefully powering the powder down the toilet. Before triggering the flush mechanism, you have to let the powder dissolve into the water. Failure to, the powder will be blown into the air when flushing.

     Since powder treatments are already broken down, they start degrading household wastes immediately after they get into the septic tank. Furthermore, powders can be used with a tank of any volume, unlike tablets and pods that are pre-measured for specific tank volumes. Just make sure you pour out the exact dosage.

    • Liquids. Just like powders, liquids have to be measured before application, and they begin working immediately after they enter the tank. Usually, liquid treatments are used for unclogging blockages in the septic system. So, liquid treatments are rarely used for septic tank maintenance when compared to other formats.
    four inch suction pipe siphoning waste out of a full home septic tank
    Image Credit: Kinek00, Shutterstock

    Eco-Friendly Assets

    For septic tanks to work, they rely on the ecosystem around them to naturally dissolve household wastes and return them to the groundwater and soil.

    Therefore, when shopping for septic tank treatments, look for an eco-friendly model to ensure the functionality and proper health of your groundwater, active bacteria ecosystem, and drain field soil. Moreover, the natural system inside your septic tank will work better with eco-friendly treatment products.

    You do not have to sacrifice the efficacy of the system to be ecologically conscientious. So, look for organic compounds that do not have formaldehyde or phosphates. These chemical compounds are harmful to the septic tank ecosystem.

    Lifespan

    The lifespan of a septic tank treatment essentially determines how long it will remain effective after application. Usually, most treatments come with once-a-month doses. However, some varieties retail in 3-, 4-, 6-, and 12-month treatment plans. You can also get single-use treatments meant for treating clogs in the septic system.

    If you cannot remember to treat your septic tanks every month, it is better to purchase a treatment option that coincides with holidays or significant events. For instance, if your treatment product has a three-month lifespan, you can utilize quarterly events, such as Easter, Christmas, New Year, and Labor Day as reminders to treat the tank.

    Odor

    You need to dissolve and treat clogs in the septic system as soon as they occur to prevent the continued build of solid wastes in drain pipes and damage. Breaking down clogs in the drain pipes will also prevent unpleasant scents from permeating the walls and floors of your home.

    As the clog disintegrates, the odor from your pipes may get worse and can linger in your pipes even after the clog has cleared. To reduce the rancid smell, consider a septic tank treatment option that dissolves the clog but also with odor reduction and control features.

    cleaning septic tank
    Image Credit: M G White, Shutterstock

    Active Ingredients

    Septic tanks rely on the health of the bacteria ecosystem, a functional plumbing infrastructure, and the soil content of the drain field. Without these components, a septic tank is nothing more than a hole in the ground where you dump household wastes.

    To ensure that your septic system remains healthy, make a habit of reviewing the active ingredients in the treatment option before purchasing the product. It is wise to check the number of bacteria in the product, the enzymes included, and the presence of inorganic matter or harmful chemicals.

    Moreover, ensure that you have accurate information about the product before adding any additives to your septic tank. This way, your septic system will get the best treatments without harming it.

    Cost

    The cost of septic tank treatments should always be a factor worth considering because it also determines the quality of your treatment product.

    Most septic tank treatments are not expensive. Their price ranges from $8 to $12 for a product with a one-month lifespan. Moderately priced tank treatments will set you back $15 to $35 and can last for 3 to four months. High-end tank treatments usually range from $40 to $80 and can last for a full year.

    The expensive options also happen to be the most effective.

    While shopping for a tank treatment product, look for one with discounts and unbeatable offers. Furthermore, look for brands that package their products in a way that can last you longer. For instance, the Green Gobbler Septic saver is a single package and can last you for two years. It features four packets with six months of monthly treatment in each.

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    Conclusion

    If you’re looking for an effective way of maintaining your septic system and tanks, there are several treatment options retailing in the market. Most of these treatment options are eco-friendly, effective, and safe for pets and children.

    Our best overall tank treatment option is the Cabin Obsession treatment option which comes with chemical-free and eco-friendly biological additives. It is safe for use, has odor-control features, and offers a one-year supply of treatments. Alternatively, you can opt to use the Green Gobbler treatment, which is pre-measured for a 1,500-gallon tank and is offered in a 6-month supply.

    Generally, before choosing a septic treatment product, be sure to check our buying guide to be sure you are getting the right product for your specific case.


    Featured Image Credit By: Snap Happy, Shutterstock

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