Myth Buster Archive
Do septic system additives work? (Spring 2008)
Q: Do septic system additives advertised as cleaners, activators, uncloggers, or restorers really work?
A: The short answer is NO.
At least 1.3 million households in New York State have septic systems. When they are working properly, septic systems keep harmful organisms out of our waters and protect our health.
We've all seen ads that claim adding commercial powders, liquids or granules to septic systems will increase their efficiency, extend their lives, eliminate the need for pumping, or restore failing systems. According the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, these types of products have not been proven effective. Some can actually interfere with the treatment process and contribute to septic system failure.
The life of a properly installed and maintained septic system and drainage field is about 20-30 years. A home septic system is a significant investment, and a failed one is expensive to replace. To get the most out of your investment and extend its life:
- Have the tank pumped and inspected regularly (every five years is recommended)
- Put only biodegradable wastes into the system
- Restrict garbage disposal use
- Conserve water in the home and repair any leaking faucets and toilets
- Don't plan trees or build over the drainage field
Driving faster saves a lot of time (August 2008)
Q: I'd like to drive slower and get money and gas savings but I can't spare the extra time it'll take.
A: Reducing your speed adds only minutes to your travel time and will save you money on gas.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, reducing your highway driving speed is the biggest factor in improving fuel efficiency. Gas mileage usually decreases rapidly at speeds above 60 mph. Each 5 mph you drive over 60 mph is like paying an additional $0.30 per gallon for gas.
But busy schedules and time pressures make us feel we must drive at top speed. What most people don't realize is that time added by driving a little slower is minimal. For example, reducing your speed for a 20-minute drive from 75 mph to 65 mph only adds 3 minutes to the trip-and that's on the highway. In the city or in congested traffic, tiny time differences like that tend to evaporate.
