Frequently Asked Questions Do I need to add anything to my septic system to keep it working properly? While many products on the market claim to help septic systems work better, the truth is there is no magic potion to cure an ailing system. In fact, most engineers and sanitation professionals believe that commercial septic system additives are, at best, useless; and at worst, potentially harmful to a system. There are two types of septic system additives: biological (like bacteria, enzymes, and yeast) and chemical. Most biological additives are harmless, but some chemical additives can potentially harm the soil in the drainage field and contaminate the groundwater. While there has not been extensive study on the effectiveness of these products, the general consensus among septic system experts is that septic system additives are unnecessary. Return to FAQ's