Frequently asked questions

Quick answers to all your root and grease questions.

Learn about our products

Learn how roots and FOG (fats, oils & grease) threaten your drains, find product specifications, and get detailed application how-tos.

RootX FAQs

How do roots grow in sewer pipes?

As trees and plants mature, their underground root system grows and seeks moisture underground. The most consistent source of moisture is sewer and wastewater pipelines. Joints and cracks in those pipes create natural entry points for roots. Roots start to grow into the top of the pipes and spread, constricting or completely blocking pipeflow. Left unchecked, roots can cause more cracks in pipes and, eventually create complete blockage or even break pipes entirely.

Is root intrusion a serious problem?

It certainly can be! According to the EPA, root intrusion is probably the single most destructive element involved in maintaining a wastewater collection system. If roots aren’t removed from pipes (through chemical root control or mechanical cutting), roots will spread, constricting or completely blocking waterflow. Left unchecked, roots can cause more cracks in pipes and, eventually, even break pipes entirely. Root intrusion can ultimately destroy a sewer or septic system, costing thousands of dollars to repair or replace.

What kind of chemicals does RootX use?

RootX kills roots using dichlobenil, a aquatic herbicide that proven to be both effective and has minimal impact on the environment. RootX also contains degreasing agents that strip away the grime on roots, allowing the dichlobenil herbicide to penetrate the root ends. Unlike other root control chemicals, RootX contains no toxic diquat dibromide, copper sulfate, or metam sodium.

What’s the difference between mechanical cutting and chemical root control with RootX?

Mechanical root cutting is like pruning a tree. A root cutter is snaked through the pipe to cut off the roots inside. The process inevitably leaves some roots behind in the pipe. Cutting also stimulates vigorous re-growth in the remaining roots. That means new root growth can fully clog your pipe again in just months. This cycle of cutting roots, regrowth, and cutting again can eventually destroy the structural integrity of the pipe. Mechanical cutting is time-consuming complex, and requires special equipment — many homeowners need to hire a professional to perform the process without damaging their pipes.

Treating pipes with RootX takes less time than mechanical cutting, the results last longer, and the process won’t harm your pipes. RootX kills roots on contact; the dead roots decay over time and are carried out with the flow of the pipe, restoring the pipe to its full capacity. RootX also leaves a barrier on the pipe walls to prevent future root growth. Once you’re on a maintenance program with annual RootX treatments, you should be able to eliminate mechanical root cutting in most cases. Best of all, you can apply RootX yourself or hire a plumber, both of which are more economical than mechanical cutting.

Grease-X FAQs

Does Grease-X use caustic chemicals that could harm my pipes?

No. All Grease-X formulas are free of corrosive or caustic chemicals, and they contain no halogenated solvents such as trichloroethylene or carbon tetrachloride. That means Grease-X will clear away FOG without damaging your pipes, sewer lines, or septic system.

Will Grease-X harm people, animals, or the environment?

No. Grease-X Biozyme uses only natural microorganisms that are harmless to humans, plants, and animals. Grease-X Emulsifier and Grease-X Jet are both non-polluting and biodegradable, which makes them ideal for meeting Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) regulations.

Do Grease-X and RootX work together?

Yes—in fact, they’re the perfect pairing to keep your sewer lines and septic systems free from backups because they attack two different, common problems. Grease-X products break down and digest fats, oils, and grease that can cause clogs, while RootX kills roots that can intrude into pipelines, causing backups and pipe damage. The formulas complement each other, so you can even use both products at the same time.

Where can I buy Grease-X?

You can order Grease-X online or find it at a local dealer. You can also locate a professional in your area to treat your pipes with Grease-X Biozyme, Grease-X Emulsifier or Grease-X Jet. For commercial use and wholesale customers, call us direct or contact your areas RootX Rep.

Find answers based on your particular use

Find answers you need, whether you’re a homeowner treating pipes yourself or using our products for commercial applications.

Homeowners

Where can I buy RootX?

You have multiple options. If you’d like to treat your home’s pipes yourself, you can order RootX online or find it at a local dealer. You can also locate a professional in your area to treat your sewer or septic system with RootX.

How long does it take to apply RootX?

You can complete a RootX treatment in under 10 minutes! Just shake the jar with funnel attached to mix the product’s components, then pour into your cleanout or toilet using the included funnel, and follow it immediately with 10 gallons of water per 2 lbs. of RootX used.

How much water do I apply to the RootX once poured into the cleanout or toilet?

You should apply 10 gallons of water per 2 lbs. of RootX used immediately after pouring in the dry RootX. Waiting to add the water can cause an overflow of foam.

Will RootX harm my trees and plants?

No—RootX is non-systemic and does not affect other roots or above-ground foliage. RootX only kills the roots inside the pipe which it comes in conatct with and prevents their regrowth. Because the RootX foam only flows through the pipe, it has no effect on roots outside the pipe.

How often do I need RootX treatments?

Because RootX leaves a barrier on your pipe walls, it will prevent regrowth for 12 months. Then you’ll just need to treat your sewer lines or septic system once a year to keep them free from root intrusion. If you hire a plumber to apply RootX, ask them to send in a RootX registration card, and we’ll mail you a reminder after 11 months so you never forget your annual RootX treatment.

Can I use part of the RootX jar and save the rest for a later application?

No. RootX is designed and package for single-use applications. Once the product is mixed, it needs to be immediately used for the most effectiveness and the maximum foam expansion in the pipe.

What’s the best location for applying RootX?

Your sewer cleanout is the preferred method for most residential applications because it’s closest to the pipes where roots can cause problems. If there’s no cleanout at your house, you can apply RootX through a toilet instead. To prevent foam overflow outside the pipeline, only use a two-pound jar of RootX in a toilet application.

Is RootX harmful to the environment?

RootX has minimal environmental impact. The RootX formula is non-caustic, non-fumigating, and non-systemic. It’s classified as a General Use product by the EPA and is registered for use in all 50 states (EPA registration #68464-1). In addition, RootX carries the signal word “Caution,” which the lowest chemical hazard rating according to the ISO 3864-2 standard for hazard severity panels.

What equipment do I need to apply RootX?

No special equipment is required — Just use the easy-to-use RootX funnel applicator. You’ll just need 5-gallon buckets to pour 10 gallons of water per 2 lbs. of RootX into your pipe or toilet. Make sure to wear all required personal protective equipement including apron and gloves.

Is RootX hard on pipes or septic systems?

No—the RootX formula is non-caustic and free from chemicals that can damage pipes. RootX also promotes bacterial growth, which is good for septic systems (not for use in septic systems in the state of Florida). By contrast, mechanical root cutting, which cuts and tears at roots that become embedded in the pipe walls, can eventually destroy a pipe’s structural integrity.

Can RootX be used in septic systems?

Yes! You can pour RootX directly into your septic tank and distribution box and drain field lines to kill roots that have intruded into the tank and drain field lines. (Note that RootX is not for use in septic systems in the state of Florida).

How do I apply RootX myself?

Application just takes three simple steps: attach the included funnel to the jar and mix shaking back and forth, then pour the dry RootX formula into your pipe, and then pour the appropriate volume of water down the pipe to activate the RootX foam. Watch a video of RootX application to see exactly how it’s done.

Should I use RootX together with mechanical root cutting?

If you’ve never had your pipes treated or if your pipe is completely blocked, a plumber might clear away the immediate blockage by cutting the roots first. Then they’ll use RootX to kill the remaining roots and leave a barrier on the pipe to prevent regrowth. Make sure your plumber applies RootX within one hour of cutting the roots; to ensure the remaining root structure properly absorbs the RootX herbicide. If you can not apply with in that first hour, then apply after new growth has sprouted, approximately 4 to 6 weeks later.

Will the RootX foam stop or block water flow during application?

No. RootX foams on contact with water, and it uses the natural flow of the line to spread the foam throughout the pipe. Wastewater continues to flow under the foam, so your wastewater system will continue to function without interruption while applying RootX. That said, you should restrict water use for a minimum of 3 to 4 hours after application to allow the RootX foam to fully spread and soak into roots.

How long does it take the RootX foam to dissipate after application?

The fast-acting RootX foam will normally dissipate in less than 15 minutes.

How does Grease-X Biozyme keep my drain pipes, sewer lines, and septic systems free from FOG?

Grease-X Biozyme contains concentrated microorganisms that digest fats, oils, and grease (FOG) — eating away existing deposits to restore your pipeline flow. These harmless microbes then reproduce and form colonies, coating pipe walls and digesting FOG as it passes through the line well after the initial treatment. In addition, this slick coating prevents grease from sticking to and building up on pipe walls. Grease-X Biozyme is a proven solution to prevent FOG buildup and maintain your pipes with regular treatments.

How can Grease-X clear drains that are completely blocked with FOG?

Our Grease-X Emulsifier and Grease-X Jet products emulsify FOG deposits to clear large blockages that are preventing your pipes from draining. These products should be applied by a professional; find a local plumber to treat your pipes.

Once your pipes are cleared, regular treatments with Grease-X Biozyme provide a long-term cure. You can apply Grease-X Biozyme yourself in just a few minutes.

If the microbes in Grease-X Biozyme reproduce, why do I need to reapply it weekly?

Although Grease-X Biozyme microbes do reproduce, they are susceptible to toxins and other chemicals commonly flowing through drain pipes and sewer lines. Regular applications of Grease-X Biozyme ensures a steady supply of grease-digesting microbes to maintain FOG-free pipes and prevent blockages.

Does Grease-X use caustic chemicals that could harm my pipes?

Will Grease-X harm people, animals, or the environment?

Once I’ve started treating lines with Grease-X, how economical is maintenance?

Grease-X Biozyme costs less than two cents per foot, per week. A single application is enough to treat even large pipes with a high volume of grease — plenty of power for any residential application. And regular treatment with Grease-X Biozyme saves you the cost of hiring a plumber regularly to clear backups caused by FOG accumulation.

Do Grease-X and RootX work together?

Where can I buy Grease-X?

You can order Grease-X Biozyme online or find it at a local dealer. You can also locate a professional in your area to treat your pipes with Grease-X Emulsifier or Grease-X Jet.

Property Managers

Where can I buy RootX?

You have multiple options. If you’d like to treat your properties pipes yourself, you can order RootX online or find it at a local dealer. If you want to order RootX or Grease-X by the case contact your area's RootX Representative by calling (800)844-4974. You can also locate a professional in your area to treat your sewer or septic system with RootX.

How quickly can I expect results with RootX?

RootX kills roots on contact and destroys the root structure within the first hour after application. The dead roots will decay and be washed away over time; the exact amount of time it takes depends on the type of plant and the size of the root mass.

How long does it take to apply RootX?

How often do I need RootX treatments?

What equipment do I need to apply RootX?

How do I apply RootX myself?

Is RootX hard on pipes or septic systems?

Will RootX harm my trees and plants?

Is RootX harmful to the environment?

What’s the best location for applying RootX?

How much water do I apply to the RootX once poured into the cleanout or toilet?

You should apply 10 gallons of water per 2 lbs. of RootX used immediately after pouring in the dry RootX. Waiting to add the water can cause an overflow of foam.

How can Grease-X clear drains that are completely blocked with FOG?

If the microbes in Grease-X Biozyme reproduce, why do I need to reapply it weekly?

Does Grease-X use caustic chemicals that could harm my pipes?

Once I’ve started treating lines with Grease-X, how economical is maintenance?

Do Grease-X and RootX work together?

What’s the difference among Grease-X Biozyme, Grease-X Emulsifier, and Grease-X Jet?

Grease-X Biozyme is a highly concentrated microbe and is formulated to treat residential and commercial pipes with FOG buildup as well as maintain them over time. It’s ideal to use on drains that are not fully blocked, and your customers should treat pipes weekly to keep them clear on an ongoing basis.

Grease-X Emulsifier and Grease-X Jet are fast-acting emulsifiers that penetrate and soften heavy FOG buildup on contact. Use them to clear heavily congested or fully blocked pipes. Afterwards, customers should follow up with weekly treatments of Grease-X Biozyme.

Municipalities

What’s the difference between mechanical cutting and chemical root control with RootX?

Mechanical root cutting is like pruning a tree. A root cutter is snaked through the pipe to cut off the roots inside. The process inevitably leaves some roots behind in the pipe. Cutting also stimulates vigorous re-growth in the remaining roots. That means new root growth can fully clog your pipe again in just months. This cycle of cutting roots, regrowth, and cutting again can eventually destroy the structural integrity of the pipe. Mechanical cutting is time-consuming complex, and requires returning to the same section of the pipe multiple times a year to cut out the new root growth..

Treating pipes with RootX takes less time than mechanical cutting, the results last longer, and the process won’t harm your pipes. RootX kills roots on contact; the dead roots decay over time and are carried out with the flow of the pipe, restoring the pipe to its full capacity. RootX also leaves a barrier on the pipe walls to prevent future root growth. Once you’re on a maintenance program with regularl RootX treatments, you should be able to eliminate mechanical root cutting in most cases. Best of all, it will free up your crews to be able to focus their time in area of more importance.

Should I cut the roots out of a line before applying RootX?

You should only need to cust the roots out if the line is running slow or is blocked. RootX works better on actively growing and feeding roots. If you do need to cleanout the roots prior to an application, you need to treat with in the first hour or wait 4-6 weeks to apply the RootX.

Should I use RootX together with mechanical root cutting?

If you’ve never had your pipes treated or if your piepflow is restricted, you will need clear away the immediate blockage by cutting or high pressure jetting the roots first to restore the pipeflow. Then you'll apply RootX to kill the remaining roots and leave a barrier on the pipe walls to prevent regrowth. Make sure you apply RootX within one hour of cutting the roots; to ensure the remaining root structure properly absorbs the RootX herbicide. If you can not apply with in that first hour, then apply after new growth has sprouted, approximately 4 to 6 weeks later.

Can I clean a sewer line with hi pressure jetting after a RootX application?

If you do need to go back and hi-pressire jet a sewer line after a RootX application is done, you will need to re-apply RootX to have that treatment on the inside of the pipes that help prevent re-growth.

How often should RootX be applied?

For 8" and larger lines you should apply RootX at least every 24 months. For 6" and smaller lines we suggest once a year applications.

Does my crew need to be licensed to apply RootX?

RootX is an EPA Registered herbicide (EPA Reg. No. 68464-1) under the "General Use" catagory. You need to check with your state regulators on whether or not you need to be licensed. You can also contact your local RootX Representative for further information.

How long does it take to apply RootX?

Depending on the application method you choose, it could take as little take 5 to 20 minutes to apply RootX!. For municipal pipes you can apply using the FDU 300 Applicator, Vacuum Method or the Direct Pour Method.

Can RootX be used in storm systems?

RootX can only be used in treatment systems where the flow will be captured and treated prior to release.

Can I apply RootX if I do not have any jetting equipment?

Yes! You can use our Direct Pour Method to apply RootX at the upstream manhole and utilize the existing flow and added water to activate the foam and get it to travel down the line.

Can I use RootX with my jetter truck?

Absolutely! We’ve also got you covered for bigger jobs. You can attach our powerful FDU 300 foam dispersal units to your truck’s water hose, allowing you to treat pipes eight inches and larger with your own jetter equipment. The FDU attachment disperses a foam spray throughout the pipe, allowing you to use the same amount of RootX to treat pipes of varying diameters. The FDU 300 is more efficient than the direct pour or vacuum methods, so you can treat more than twice as much pipe with the same amount of chemical.
With the Vacuum Method, you can use the cleaning nozzle at the downstream manhole to create a vacuum that pulls the RootX foam down the line. This allows you to apply RootX with your own crews and equipment instead of spending budget on special contractors.

Do lines have to be cleaned before using Grease-X Biozyme?

If your pipelines and lift stations have a heavy buildup of FOG, it’s a good idea to apply Grease-X Jet or Grease-X Emulsifier first to break it down and prevent backups. Otherwise, you can apply Grease-X Biozyme, and it will begin digesting FOG immediately.

What can be done about build up in lift stations and wet wells?

Grease-X Emulsifier and Grease-X Jet can be applied through a pump sprayer to lift stations and wet wells to soften up the grease. Then after about 15-30 minutes use high pressure water to hose off the softened grease. Either product can be applied to the surfaces in the lift station and wet well to minimize the build-up and make the areas easier to regularly clean with high pressure.

Plumbers

How does RootX help generate business for my company?

Our annual reminder program helps encourage repeat business by reminding your customers to schedule their annual RootX treatment. Simply register your customers for the program (online or with the registration card included in your box/jar of RootX) and they’ll receive a letter in 11 months letting them know it’s time to call you directly for their annual treatment. We’ll also send you a list of customers who are due for another treatment so you can reach out to them directly.

When you order RootX, you’ll also receive free marketing materials that you can use to tell your existing customers about RootX. The homeowners brochures arm you with information you need to help customers understand the benefits of treatments, and are a handy leave-behind you can provide to your customers.

Finally, homeowners can find your business when they search for a local plumber or authorized dealer on our website, funneling new customers to your business. Contact us if you'd like to be listed in our online directories.

What does it cost to participate in the customer registration or online plumber locator programs?

Participation is completely free! It just takes a few minutes to register your customers for the annual reminder program — we take care of the rest. If you’d like to be listed in our online plumber locator, simply let us know.

How can I become an authorized RootX dealer?

If you’d like to sell RootX in your retail location or directly to your customers, apply for our authorized dealer program! You’ll enjoy wholesale case pricing, marketing materials, and support from our experts.

Do lines have to be cleaned before using Grease-X Biozyme?

If your customer’s pipes have a heavy buildup of FOG or are completely blocked, it’s a good idea to apply Grease-X Emulsifier or Grease-X Jet first to break it down and restore proper drainage. Otherwise, you can apply Grease-X Biozyme, and it will begin digesting FOG immediately.