Unlike chemical cleaners where strong acids and bases destroy microbes and break down grease and scum, enzyme cleaners use proteins created by microorganisms to do many of the same things. Enzyme cleaners often are preferred where strong chemicals can cause too much damage, so are they better for cleaning when your home uses a septic system? Read more to find out.
Why Use Enzyme Cleaners?
Enzyme cleaners present an alternative to strong acids and bases. Vinegar is an acid often used for cleaning, but it can react with materials—like pipes—in undesired ways. Just the same, bleach is a base that corrodes almost everything it touches. Enzymes target organic substances to break them down the way they would in nature, leaving pipes, containers, and other surfaces untouched most of the time.
Enzyme Cleaners are Safe to Use with Septic Systems
Septic system installers will encourage the use of enzyme cleaners, as they are less harmful to the bacterial ecosystem in the septic tank than antibacterial soaps and other strong chemicals. The bacterial ecosystem in your septic tank is what breaks down the waste that gets flushed or washed down your drains. If that bacteria is damaged, your septic system could fail! Use enzyme cleaners instead of chemical cleaners to keep your septic system safe.
Where Can I Find Enzyme Cleaners?
The only downside to enzyme cleaners is their price and availability. Look to big-box hardware stores or department stores to find enzyme cleaners.
What Should I Do if Enzyme Cleaners Aren’t Working?
If your drains are still clogged after using enzyme cleaners, it may be best to agitate clogs away with something like a drain snake or pipe cleaner brush. If all the drains in your home are clogged, you may have a problem with your septic system. A full septic system should be pumped right away, so be sure to call Maui Pumping today to schedule an appointment.