How do we ordinary folks prove that these products do not work? But my opinion is that the purchase of these products provides a benefit only to those who make and sell them. I don't think they will harm your septic system. The only harm is to the finances of the purchaser.

march45: Microbes will usually work on a septic system to help the break-down of the waste in the septic tank, they have about a zero chance of clearing a stoppage in a waste line.

If you have probs. with a shower and a toilet you have a stoppage in the main line, it needs to be rodded out, sorry.

There are NO 'benefits' to adding microbes to a septic system.

All the science on the matter has concluded that the naturally occuring bacteria in the septic tank normally just 'eat' any microbes that are introduced to the system so these microbes never get a chance to do anything at all.

But there is also scientific evidence that additives can actually harm septic systems, which is why in many locations using any kind of additive to your septic system is illegal and prohibited by law.

bus_driver has this one 100% correct:

Those trying to sell you any type of septic system additive are only trying to part you from your hard earned money.

Buyer beware.

You really need to discover what the problem is. Your pipes are clogged with something that needs to come out of there.

Your shower drain is probably clogged with hair. Get a "Zipp strip" remove the shower strainer and pull the clog out. Only sure fire way.

Happy New Year!