The right dose depends on your tank size, not guesswork. Here's the exact reference table, when to adjust, and the startup protocol for systems that haven't been treated recently.
Find your tank size in the table below. If you don't know your tank capacity, most residential tanks fall between 1,000 and 1,500 gallons — check your installation permit or last pump-out invoice for the exact figure.
| Tank Size | Maintenance Dose (monthly) | Startup Dose (months 1–3) |
|---|---|---|
| 500 gallons | 1 tablet | 2 tablets |
| 750 gallons | 1–2 tablets | 3 tablets |
| 1,000 gallons | 2 tablets | 4 tablets |
| 1,250 gallons | 2–3 tablets | 5 tablets |
| 1,500 gallons | 3 tablets | 6 tablets |
| 2,000 gallons | 4 tablets | 8 tablets |
| 2,500 gallons | 5 tablets | 10 tablets |
Startup dose applies when: the system has active odor, sluggish drains, hasn't been treated in 2+ years, or was just pumped and is starting fresh. After the startup period, drop to the standard maintenance dose.
SEPTIFIX ships in pre-measured tablet form. Multi-month supply packages available.
See SEPTIFIX & Current Pricing →Double the standard dose for months 1–3. Once the symptoms resolve and the system stabilizes, drop back to the maintenance amount. Re-doubling isn't needed unless the system returns to a stressed state.
A freshly pumped tank has its bacterial colony removed along with the sludge. Start at the startup dose for the first month to re-establish the culture faster, then drop to maintenance.
If the system hasn't been treated in 2 or more years, treat it the same as a startup scenario. Use the double dose for the first 2–3 months before switching to maintenance.
For vacation properties closed for extended periods, dose before closing and again when reopening. Use the startup dose for the reopening month to compensate for the dormant period.
| Source | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Installation permit | Filed with local health or building department — lists tank capacity in gallons |
| Pump-out invoice | Most companies note tank size on the service record |
| Home inspection report | Septic section typically includes tank size and material |
| Physical measurement | A septic professional can measure during the next service visit |
| Default assumption | Most US residential tanks: 1,000–1,500 gallons for 3–4 bedroom homes |
Time of day, flush sequence, what to avoid — everything in one place.
Read the Full Usage Guide →More from GetHomeFixed — Septic Systems