QA

How Aerobic Septic Systems Work

An aerobic system injects oxygen into the treatment tank. The additional oxygen increases natural bacterial activity within the system that then provides additional treatment for nutrients in the effluent.

How much electricity does an aerobic septic system use?

Daily operating electrical usage: 86 Watts/Hr x 24 hrs/day = 2,064 Watt-hours/day. InspectAPedia ® Question? Just ask us! InspectAPedia Encyclopedia of Building & Environmental Construction, Diagnosis, Maintenance & Repair.

Is aerobic septic good?

Aerobic bacteria break down waste solids faster than their anaerobic counterparts. The treated water that flows out of an aerobic septic system is cleaner, making an aerobic system a good choice if your property has a higher water table or other environmental challenges.

How does an aerobic treatment unit work?

Aerobic systems treat wastewater using natural processes that require oxygen. Bacteria that thrive in oxygen-rich environ- ments break down and digest the wastewater inside the aerobic treatment unit as they are sus- pended in the liquid. Like most onsite systems, aerobic systems treat the wastewater in stages.

Do anaerobic septic systems need to be pumped?

If there is a buildup of sludge in your aerobic tank, it can keep the oxygen entering the system from properly breaking down the waste, and will prevent the waste from being sufficiently treated. If there is a high level of sludge in either of these tanks, it’s important that you have the entire system pumped.

Do aerobic septic systems smell?

A common myth is that aerobic systems smell. Well, some do, but they shouldn’t! A smelly septic system is a sign of a problem, one that needs to be fixed sooner instead of later.

How often should septic aerator run?

The aerator should run 24/7 nonstop and should not cost more than 10 dollars a month to run. If you electric bill is high something else is causing it or the system is not correctly hooked up.

Which is better aerobic or anaerobic septic system?

Aerobic bacterial colonies are also better at breaking down human waste than anaerobic bacteria. However, aerobic bacteria are less able to break down inorganic solids, so aerobic systems may become clogged more easily.

How do you maintain an anaerobic septic system?

Do’s Provide ant and insect control around all system components. Keep vegetation around system components, including air compressor, control panel, spray heads etc. Clean your air compressor’s filter every 6 months. Use tablet septic chlorine, approved for wastewater use.

Why is the red light on on my aerobic septic system?

The red light indicates the alarm is receiving a signal from the pump tank that the water level is rising higher or is dropping lower than it should be. Next, check the septic breaker to ensure the system has power. Try to minimize water usage during this time.

What is the difference between aerobic and anaerobic water treatment?

While both rely on a process of microbial decomposition to treat wastewater, the key difference between anaerobic and aerobic treatment is that aerobic systems require oxygen, while anaerobic systems do not. This is a function of the types of microbes used in each type of system.

How do you protect aerobic septic systems in freezing weather?

If you have a septic system that is used infrequently during the winter, place a layer of insulating material at least a foot deep over the tank and extend the layer at least 5 feet past the edges of the tank. Using a snow fence to trap snow over the tank also will help.

How often should aerobic septic sprinklers go off?

All aerobic systems are required to be checked every 4 months per TCEQ regulations, even if your county doesn’t require a maintenance company to perform the service (there’s a lot more to servicing your system than just adding chlorine, not to mention the health risk of coming into contact with wastewater).

What does anaerobic septic system look like?

In an anaerobic system, you’ve got a septic tank with two main pipes. One of these goes to the house, and the other heads out into your yard. That main pipe splits into several pipes that sit just below the surface of your lawn.

Do you pump an aerobic septic system?

Compared to its counterparts, an aerobic septic system breaks down solid wastes faster. As a result, the waste does not accumulate to alarming levels. You will, therefore, not need to pump your septic tank system frequently.

Can you use bleach in an aerobic septic system?

Bleach chlorination systems can be installed on any aerobic septic.

How do I stop my aerobic septic tank from smelling?

How Can I Get Rid of Odor Coming From the Sprinklers of an Aerobic Treatment System? Check the filters, seals and aerator. Add aerobic treatment system chlorine tablets in accordance with the schedule recommended by the installer. Have a technician pump out the aerobic tank. Cut back on your water usage.

Why does my septic tank smell when it rains?

Raining often causes atmospheric pressure changes, which can lead to the air becoming heavy. As such, the methane gases typically found in the septic tank don’t flow through the vent as they normally would. Instead, they stay low to the ground, causing a foul smell similar to rotten eggs.

How do I know if my septic aerator is working?

The surest sign your aerator has failed is an overwhelming unpleasant odor coming from where your system discharges, whether into a secondary treatment system or directly into the environment.

How long do aerator pumps last?

The lifespan of your aerator will vary based on the size of the aerator, the frequency with which it is used, the size of your tank and what elements the aerator is exposed to. Most pumps last anywhere from two to five years before they need to be replaced.

How long do septic air pumps last?

How long does a septic aerator usually last? Most septic air compressors will last about three years before a malfunction occurs. Fortunately, spare parts and rebuild kits are available for all of the major aerator brands. These kits can be far more cost effective than purchasing a new aerator.