http://www.even-flo.com

  May 2001

Hints to Improve the Life of Your Septic Systems

1. Dilute chemicals used in the home according to manufacturer's directions.
2. Us spray bottles to apply chemicals (disinfectants, etc.), minimizing amount needed
3. Wipe down surfaces before rinsing
4. Change to Alken Enz-Odor (original) for floor cleaning.
5. If you want blue water in the toilet, consider using Alken Treat-A-Loo 2 in a drip bottle. This will help your septic tank by adding useful bacteria, add a non-staining blue color to the water and a mild biodegradable fragrance, while removing toilet ring and preventing algae growth in the water tank.
6. Never add chemical cleaners or disinfectant directly to the toilet bowl, drain or septic line. If you cannot avoid this, let the water run for at least 20 minutes after you dump disinfectant water, so that its hazardous effect can be minimized. Then add fresh bacteria to replenish those that were just killed.

What is REDOX Potential and Why is it Measured?

REDOX potential (or ORP) is a measurement of the level of biological reductions/oxidations. The sediment in the bottom of a lake, sludge in a sewerage works or septic tank will have very low redox potential and will likely be devoid of any oxygen. This sludge or waste water will have a very high concentration of reductive anaerobic bacteria, indeed the bulk of the organic matter may in fact be bacteria. As the concentration of oxygen increases the oxidation potential of the water will increase. A low redox potential or small amount of oxygen is toxic to anaerobic bacteria, therefore as the concentration of oxygen and redox potential increases the bacterial population changes from reductive anaerobic bacteria to oxidative aerobic bacteria. Since desirable bacteria produce enzymes that mediate electron transfer, oxidizing undesirable substances, such as hydrogen sulfide and ammonia, an increase in REDOX potential should serve as an easy measurement of the desired biological activity.