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Roots in Septic Tank

Septic Tank Root Killer: Effectively Eliminate Roots with RootX

RootX root killer works effectively to kill roots in septic tanks without killing the trees. Getting rid of hair like roots in your septic tank using RootX root killer is an important, safe, inexpensive measure to properly maintain the health of your septic tank. If you have trees near or around your septic tank there is a good chance that you have tree roots growing in your septic tank. These tree roots in your septic tank or drain field can potentially clog the septic system or the leaching capability of your septic system.

The septic tank acts as the “primary treatment” process of the septic system. The septic tank is a watertight underground box traditionally made of concrete where bacteria digest organic materials present in the waste. Wastewater flows into the tank where the heavy solids settle to the bottom (sludge layer) and greases, fats and oils (scum layer) float the top. Between these layers is called the clarified layer or clear water that is the only layer that should flow to the leach field for final treatment.

Using RootX to Eliminate Tree Roots in Septic Tank

To effectively treat roots in septic tank use 8 pounds of RootX in septic tank per 1,000 gallons of septic tank capacity (refer to chart below).

If you are adding RootX tree root killer through a cleanout or a toilet you must factor in the distance of the pipe from the cleanout or toilet to the septic tank. Example: If you are applying the product through cleanout that is 35 feet away from your septic tank and your plumbing pipe is 4” in diameter then you must add 2 pounds to the total amount of RootX required for your septic tank volume (refer to chart below for pipe diameter dose rates).

RootX root killer can also be added directly to the septic tank at a rate of 8 pounds per 1,000 gallons of septic tank capacity.

If you have roots in your leach field system review our guidelines for treating roots in leach field.


Roots in Septic Tank - General Application Instructions

  1. Pour the RootX aquatic herbicide and foaming agent directly from the jar into a small pail and mix the two components together (discard the plastic divider). DO NOT add any water to the pail.
  2. Pour the DRY RootX product directly into the septic tank or into the clean-out that leads to the septic tank. You can also flush (but you must account for the distance from the toilet to the septic tank.
  3. If you are applying through a clean-out pour5 gallons of water per pound of RootX root killer used to activate the root-killing foam.

RootX Root Killer for Tree Roots in Septic Tanks, Leach Fields or Plumbing Pipes (Application Rates)

Visit our How Much RootX Should I Purchase page for more detailed application rates.

Method RootX Amount Pipe Diameter Length
Septic Tanks 8 lb. per 1,000 gals.    
RootX Jars 2 lb. Jar 4 in. 50 ft.
RootX Jars 4 lb. Jar 4 in. 100 ft.
RootX Jars 4 lb. Jar 6 in. 75ft.