When septic systems begin to fail, replacing the entire tank isn’t always the smartest—or most economical solution. For installers, an IAPMO/UPC-certified retrofit septic system can rejuvenate, extend the life, and restore the performance of your client’s existing system. SludgeHammer® technology offers a faster, non-invasive, and highly effective alternative that will save you time and money.
With the SludgeHammer Aerobic Bacterial Generator (ABG), you can upgrade almost any existing septic tank into a high-performance treatment system—one that enhances, repairs, and restores without structural modifications.
Innovation Rooted in Biology
SludgeHammer technology was born from Dr. Wickham’s soil microbiology research. While studying how bacteria clean oil-contaminated soils, he developed the SludgeHammer Blend Bacteria—a proprietary mix of organisms designed to digest organic waste, restore soil health, and thrive under extreme conditions.
These specialized bacteria:
- Have a powerful appetite for carbon
- Survive and function in low-oxygen (anaerobic) conditions
- Ferment sugars and mucopolysaccharides for energy
- Remove nitrates and nitrites to extract oxygen
- Operate efficiently at low temperatures
- Form spores with minimal biomass
- Regenerate rapidly for continuous waste treatment
Dr. Wickham discovered that these powerful bacteria could do more than just treat wastewater—they could actually revive failing septic systems. By restoring the function of the disposal field and improving the quality of water released into the environment, they could greatly reduce the need for frequent maintenance and traditional pumping protocols. The key challenge was finding a way to create the ideal conditions inside the tank for the bacteria to thrive.
Enter the SludgeHammer. It uses this biological process to fix septic problems naturally—without digging up yards or replacing tanks. It works quietly inside the tank, powered by an above-ground air blower, and requires no heavy equipment or excavation, so landscaping remains untouched. By restoring the natural balance of bacteria, SludgeHammer eliminates odours, protects the leach field from future failure, and turns the treated water into a valuable resource that can even be reused for sub-surface irrigation. It’s a simple, clean, and sustainable way to repair and maintain septic systems—making it a smarter alternative to costly and disruptive traditional methods.
A Certified Solution to Restore Your Septic System—No Digging Required.
A failing septic system often means only one thing: expensive excavation and replacement. The SludgeHammer system changes that.
SludgeHammer is the only IAPMO/UPC-certified retrofit septic system solution proven to rejuvenate failing septic systems from within the existing tank. This rigorous IAPMO/UPC IGC180-2013 certification confirms that SludgeHammer is approved for safe and effective installation into pre-existing septic tanks.
This unique approval gives homeowners and property managers confidence in the system’s proven ability to:
- Restore Leach Fields: Eliminate your clients’ need for costly, disruptive septic replacements by managing and fully eliminating the restrictive biomat buildup that clogs leach fields.
- Proactive Protection: Address system issues proactively, preventing minor problems from escalating into catastrophic and expensive failures.
- Extend System Life: Provide lasting septic assurance, extending the lifespan of your clients’ systems by decades and ensuring the long-term biological health of their entire system.
Unlike other products that claim to fix biomat issues but lack credible testing, SludgeHammer’s core technology—an advanced, high-performance biological process—is rigorously tested and officially included in the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC). Whether installed as a critical rejuvenation tool or a proactive upgrade, SludgeHammer delivers proven performance, reliability, and long-term peace of mind.
Retrofit Instead of Replace
Unlike conventional systems that require complete tank replacement, the SludgeHammer ABG is designed for simple, non-invasive installation into existing septic infrastructure. There’s no need for excavation, no downtime, and no major system modification—just immediate, measurable results.
Key advantages include:
- Retrofit-Ready: Certified under IAPMO/UPC for approved use in existing tanks
- Compact Design: Modular, scalable, and retrofittable into septic tanks without altering the infrastructure.
- Low Maintenance: The only mechanical component is the above-grade air pump
- Long-Lasting Performance: Extends leach field function for decades
- Versatile: Works with concrete, fiberglass, or plastic tanks—even in high water table areas
Proven in the Field
At a Michigan lakefront RV park, aging septic systems were failing and threatening compliance. Replacing them would have been expensive and disruptive. Instead, the installer retrofitted the tanks with SludgeHammer ABGs.
Within hours, the systems were back online—producing clear effluent, protecting the nearby lake, and saving the client tens of thousands of dollars—all without excavation or structural changes.
Global Reach, Local Confidence
Today, SludgeHammer leads the retrofit wastewater industry with over 500 certified installer partners across 17 countries. Every installation reflects decades of microbiological research, field testing, and engineering expertise.
By choosing SludgeHammer, you’re not just improving septic performance—you’re restoring ecosystems, protecting groundwater, and providing lasting, sustainable results for your clients.
Get Started Today
As environmental regulations tighten, the demand for certified advanced treatment solutions continues to grow. With IAPMO/UPC-certified retrofit septic system solutions, SludgeHammer helps you deliver proven performance, extend system life, and strengthen your professional reputation.
Contact SludgeHammer today to schedule a retrofit evaluation or learn how to become a certified SludgeHammer installer.