I am new to this forum. I inspect aerobic septic systems and wanted to clear something up for all on here.The chlorin tablets do not help control the smell of these systems. THe air from the compressor is what keeps them from haveing a smell.If one has a smell then there is an air problem.

Why is chlorine necessary?

It is used to kill the bacteria.That is why it is very important to keep chlorine in the system at all times

Would grapefruit seed extract not do the same thing? It is an antibacterial, and there are other natural alternatives...

That is a good question. i will have to find that out. The active ingrediant in aerobic chlorine is calcuim hypochlorite but as far as your ? i will have to get back with you.

The purpose of the chlorine in these systems is to kill any waterborne pathogens before the treated water is sprayed on your yard. The term aerobic applies to the type of bacteria that is at work treating the water in this type of system( WHICH REQUIRES AIR TO SURVIVE) supplied by your compressor. This bacteria if established and healthy is what will keep your smell down. The state of Texas requires that you maintain a certain percentage of chlorine in your last tank ( pump chamber) or compartment at any given time and can come test this percentage, although I have never seen them do this myself.

Did you find anything? Maybe some red tape?

Does hydrogen peroxide come in solid tablet form?
Has anyone read Wendell Berry?He has written that the only good solution to a problem is one that does't cause more problems. Mercury pollution is a by-product of chlorine production.Once again,we are substituting chemical poisons for biological pathogens.
Any biologists out there?Can't the old leachfield systems be tweaked with better biology