- Most aerobic treatment units are equipped with a timer to regulate when the pump is allowed to disperse effluent through the sprinklers. This section will walk you through the steps to correctly set the timer. The timer is located in the control panel. Locate the small white triangle in the upper right region of the timer.
How does the timer on a septic system work?
All septic systems with pumps should have a timer installed that controls when the pump can pump waste water into the drain field. Timer systems run the pump in durations at certain times of the day. If too much water comes into the system between pumping cycles, it will have no place to go except into the pump tank.
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).
How long should a septic tank 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.
Why do my septic sprinklers keep going off?
If there is no rain water to raise the water level in your tanks, and your sprayers are going off frequently during the day, this is a sign of overloading or a plumbing problem. If you use too much water for the system to handle, it will spray. SEPTIC SYSTEMS DO NO MAKE WATER.
Why is the alarm going off on my aerobic system?
The cause of an alarm on aerobic systems is either the failure of the aeration device or high water level inside the tank. If you have an in tank aerator, take off the lid of the aeration chamber and see if the aerator is running. If the aerator is not operating or not putting out air, this is the cause of your alarm.
What is a aerobic septic system?
Aerobic septic systems are systems that use mechanical parts to treat wastewater and emit treated wastewater into the absorption field. Aerobic systems use aerobic bacteria that require pumped air to live, versus the oxygen depleted environment required for anaerobic bacteria.
What are the signs that your septic tank is full?
Here are some of the most common warning signs that you have a full septic tank:
- Your Drains Are Taking Forever.
- Standing Water Over Your Septic Tank.
- Bad Smells Coming From Your Yard.
- You Hear Gurgling Water.
- You Have A Sewage Backup.
- How often should you empty your septic tank?
How many loads of laundry a day are safe to do with a septic tank?
Spread Out Laundry Loads These use less water which puts less stress on your septic system. Regardless of the type of appliance you have, you should still spread out your loads. Instead of doing several loads in one day, consider doing 1 load per day or space out 2 loads if you must do more in a single day.
Where do you put chlorine in an aerobic septic system?
Chlorine tablets are added via an access port on the top of your aerobic septic system tanks. Usually there are two access ports, one for the chlorine, and one for accessing the aereation chamber. Depending on the system manufacturer’s model, the ports will either be secured by screw-on caps or latched caps.
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.
Can I use Ridex in my aerobic septic system?
Rid-X is full of helpful bacteria and enzymes that work to break down things like toilet paper and grease. These enzymes will not hurt your aerobic septic system. These enzymes will not hurt your aerobic septic system.
Why is my septic tank beeping?
When the septic alarm sounds, it tells you that there is a problem getting wastewater to the drain field. Several different things may cause this. Most septic tanks have an alert when there’s too much water inside of it and could cause some kind of backup or overflow if not dealt with promptly.
Timer
The majority of aerobic treatment systems are fitted with a timer, which regulates when the pump is permitted to distribute effluent via the sprinklers and when it is not. You will be guided through the process of accurately setting the timer in this section. The timer may be found in the control panel of the computer. Find the little white triangle that appears in the upper right corner of the timer. This triangle corresponds to the outer numbers on the timer and should be set to the right time of day at any given moment.
or P.M.
Each side (between the two sets of 12 numerals) symbolizes either the A.M.
hours, respectively.
Using the timer, locate the 2 on the P.M.
You should utilize the inside circle that symbolizes a clock face and has the minute hand that may be moved in order to specify the time in minutes.
In order to ensure that the timer is set to the right time, Following then, there will be scheduled maintenance.
Do’s and Don’ts of Aerobic System Maintenance
Posted onAlthough aerobic systems are more advanced than regular systems, they still require routine maintenance in order to perform at their best. Posted on Here are some dos and don’ts for keeping your aerobic system in good working order (tips on standard systems here). DEselect a TCEQ-licensed maintenance provider to perform routine maintenance on your system. According to TCEQ regulations, all aerobic systems must be checked every four months, even if your county does not require a maintenance company to perform the service (there is a lot more to servicing your system than simply adding chlorine, not to mention the health risks associated with coming into contact with wastewater).
- When your alarm goes off or your light comes on, contact your maintenance provider immediately and decrease non-essential water consumption.
- DO NOT WAIT a few days before reporting an alarm activation.
- DON’T switch off the system unless absolutely necessary.
- Check out our video on how to unclog your chlorinator.
- Keep clear from any gas or electrical sources.
- If ants begin to mound near any portion of the system, saturate the area with ant killer to eliminate them.
- Only use calcium hypochlorite tablets that are specifically developed for wastewater treatment.
- Allowing plumbers, landscapers, irrigation companies, and other professionals to change anything or touch any element of the system other than providing chlorine and turning off the alarm is strictly prohibited.
- DO use caution before allowing anything into the system.
Aerobic systems are intended solely for the treatment of home wastewater and toilet tissue. The following are examples of things that might be harmful to your system:
- Overuse of garbage disposal
- Fat, grease, and oil
- Too many cleaners
- Too much fabric softener
- Bleach, cigarette butts
- Diaper and wipe waste
- Feminine products waste
- Paper towels waste
- Condom waste
- Q-tip waste
- Paint waste
- Hair combing waste
- Food waste (fruit peels, fruit juice, cola, wine, vinegar, salad oil waste, sugars waste, coffee grounds waste)
- Dental floss waste
- Kitty litter waste
- Unused medicine waste
- And so on.
Items such as these can increase the cost of maintenance and tank cleanings, which can lead to a higher total cost of ownership. DO NOT allow any changes to be made to any aspect of the system or the position of the spray heads. The system becomes out of compliance as a result of the modification, and the property owner may incur additional costs to bring it back into conformity. DOpump your system when your maintenance provider recommends that you do so. Van Delden performs a sludge test on your system every time it is serviced.
- (The average household will require a pumping of the system every 2-5 years.) Planting landscaping around the system or spray heads is not recommended.
- (Only vegetative surfaces can be treated with this spray).
- When it comes to what has to be done when it is pumped, every make and model is different.
- Using water more efficiently helps to keep the system from being overloaded.
- Whenever possible, do not do all of your laundry on the same day.
- Over the course of 80 years, Van Delden Wastewater Systems has proven itself to be the premier Wastewater System provider, supplying San Antonio, Boerne, and the surrounding Texas Hill Country with services you can rely on today and in the future.
- (Boerne).
Common Aerobic System Issues – Septic Tank Pumping – B&B Pumping – Top Rated Septic Cleaning Services
For any owner of an aerobic septic system, the sound of a wailing alarm is likely to be a very familiar sound. This alert does not always indicate that you are having a septic crisis, but it may indicate that one of the many components of your septic system need care. When it comes to dealing with this alarm, there are a variety of issues that you’ll need to look out for. In today’s article, BB Pumping of the Fort Worth region will discuss some typical aerobic system concerns as well as how to identify and diagnose them.
No Power In The System
Clients’ aerobic systems are frequently experiencing this problem, which is likely the most prevalent problem we see. If your alarm has sounded, one of the first actions you should do to resolve the problem is to check your power supply for a short circuit. Ensure that the system’s power switch has not been mistakenly turned off by checking the power indicator light.
You should examine your home’s electric breaker if the switch is turned on but you’re still hearing the alarm or seeing the service light. Make certain that the aerobic system is receiving sufficient electricity.
Check For A Clogged Chlorinator
When you have an aerobic septic system, the wastewater in your tank is broken down and treated with oxygen. Often, once it has been aerobically cleaned, this effluent is returned to the home’s sprinkler system, where it may be used to irrigate a grass. This water is treated with chlorine before it is utilized in the sprinklers to ensure that the wastewater is disinfected. This chlorinator is used extensively throughout the year to treat wastewater, and it can become blocked if you don’t schedule frequent septic tank repair appointments with a professional.
Submersible Pump Doesn’t Work
Most of the time, if the submersible pump is not functioning properly, it is an indication that you require a new pump entirely. A defective float, poor wiring, or any other type of damaged element may, however, render the pump inoperable in some instances, resulting in the pump not functioning at all. Rather than attempting to repair or replace these components on your own, it is advisable to bring in one of our professionals to do some septic tank maintenance on your system for you.
Low Air Pressure
It is essential for the efficient functioning of your aerobic septic system that you maintain a consistent intake of oxygen to help break down your waste. If your system isn’t getting enough air, and the air pressure is low, it’s probable that you need a new aerator, or that a professional will need to rebuild your aerator system from the ground up.
Broken Timer Or Photocell
When all of these components operate together, you can time when water is released from your system and put to use in your sprinklers. If one or both of these components are broken or fail, it can prohibit your system from discharging wastewater through your sprinklers, resulting in an accumulation of water in your system that finally becomes too much.
Common Problems That Occur with Aerobic Septic Systems
6:15 p.m. on June 26, 2019 Use of an aerobic treatment system at Canyon Lake, TX is widespread. Possibly you are in the process of purchasing or relocating to a property that employs an aerobic septic system. In the event that you are unfamiliar with this form of septic system, it is crucial to recognize that they are very different from regular septic systems, and that they come with their own set of possible concerns. As long as you have regular aerobic septic system maintenance performed by an experienced and qualified technician, you will most likely not have any problems with your system.
After all, you can only avoid or correct an issue if you are aware that one exists!
- Having no power: Do not be alarmed if you realize that your aerobic septic system has just ceased operating. First, make sure that the power switch for your aerobic septic system hasn’t been unintentionally switched off, and that the power breaker hasn’t been tripped by another appliance or person. This is frequently the case, and it is one of the most straightforward difficulties to resolve
- Problems with submersible pumps: Is your submersible pump not performing as it should be? Investing in a new submersible pump is sometimes the most cost-effective solution to this problem. However, it is possible that the problem is due to faulty wiring or a faulty float, which may be resolved without the need to replace the complete pump. A low level of air pressure in your aerobic septic system: Have you observed that the level of air pressure in your aerobic septic system is lower than it should be? This has the potential to be a significant problem for the operation of your system. However, it may be resolved by purchasing a new aerator or, if feasible, repairing any problems with your present aerator. The timer or photocell is not functioning properly: The timer and photocell are two extremely crucial components of your aerobic septic system, since they are responsible for retaining the water in the pump tank until it is time to release it into the environment. In the event that this portion of your system isn’t functioning properly, it is possible that one of these components is malfunctioning. A problem with your spray head might be caused by it not rotating properly or not popping down after spraying once it has finished. Unfortunately, a professional will be able to repair or replace this component with relative ease. Failure to perform routine maintenance: In the event that you fail to get your aerobic septic system maintained on a regular basis by a skilled and licensed expert, the likelihood that one of the problems outlined above will occur increases significantly. Stick to a regular maintenance plan and delegate the work to an experienced professional to avoid this destiny
- Or
Do you have a nagging feeling that something is amiss with your septic system but aren’t sure what it may be? We are here to assist you! Make a call to Countryside Construction Inc., and we will dispatch a team to assist you with your aerobic treatment system in Canyon Lake, TX.
Contact us now. We look forward to being of service to you in the near future! Septic Services,Aerobic Treatment Systems,Aerobic Treatment Systems Admin is the author of this blog article.
Septic Solutions – Frequently Asked Questions
Collin County law requires that you retain a valid maintenance contract in existence at all times, and this is a requirement under that legislation. It is possible to be fined up to $500 per infraction for operating your aerobic septic system without a legal contract, with each day being considered a separate crime.
2. Is there a maintenance contract that will cover everthing?
Yes! We provide three different degrees of service. Our services vary from the most basic of minimal coverage to the most comprehensive of all-inclusive coverage.
3. What do you inspect on a maintenance visit?
At each maintenance visit, your septic system is subjected to a thorough 16-point check to verify that it is operating properly. All of your filters and screens are cleaned on a regular basis. After the inspection is complete, a report on the performance of your septic system is posted on your door to keep you informed of the system’s functioning.
4. How do I know if my septic inspection is being performed?
Your maintenance firm should be placing a label in your control box and leaving a door hanger to inform you that they have inspected your system and found nothing wrong. If all of these steps are taken, but you still have a suspicion that your inspection is not being handled properly, place a small rock on the lid of your septic tank that will have to be removed in order for a proper inspection to take place. This will provide you the assurance that you are receiving the service that you deserve.
5. Is my septic system supposed to run all the time?
You are correct in that your aerobic system is meant to function on a continuous basis. Septic Solutions should be contacted if your air pump is not functioning properly.
6 If my septic system runs continually, will I have a large electric bill?
Not at all; the amount of power consumed by an aerobic septic system is comparable to that of a 100 watt incandescent light bulb.
7. Is my septic system supposed to be making a noise?
Your air pump will be making a constant buzzing noise throughout the day. In contrast, if you are hearing a loud, unpleasant buzzing noise, it is likely that your septic alarm is activated. Ensure that electricity is going to your septic system by checking your circuit breakers. If your breakers have not been tripped, call Septic Solutions right away to schedule an inspection.
8. Why does my aerobic system smell?
Aerobic systems emit a distinct odor that some people are more sensitive to than others, depending on their genetic makeup. Septic Solutions should be contacted if you notice a sewage or urine odor in your home.
9. If I have an odor inside my home, ist that septic related?
Septic smells that emanate from within the residence are almost always the consequence of plumbing problems.
10. What can I do if my neighbor’s septic system stinks?
It is possible to file an anonymous complaint with your local Health Department / Development Services if your neighbor has a stinking septic system and shows no sign of wanting to address the problem.
11. What do I do if an alarm and/or alarm light comes on?
Ensure that electricity is going to your septic system by checking your circuit breakers. If your breakers have not been tripped, call Septic Solutions right away to schedule an inspection.
12 Should my alarm and sprinklers activate continually during and/or after rain?
When it rains, the majority of septic systems absorb groundwater.
If your water level rises as a result of this, your high-water alarm and spray heads will be activated. The majority of septic systems will self-correct after the rain has stopped falling. If this is not the case, contact Septic Solutions immediately.
13. How do I mute my alarm?
To mute the alarm, there should be a button clearly indicated on your control panel. Make sure to unmute your alert as soon as your septic problem has been resolved.
14. How often should I have to replace parts?
The cost of replacement parts varies based on the kind of system you have and how well your septic system is kept up and maintained. Some aerobic brands need the repair of parts on a yearly basis. Keeping ants and rodents away from your septic system will help to extend the life of the system’s components. If you find that replacing components is a burden or an inconvenience, you might consider signing up for our Gold Service Plan.
15. Why are the air pump and water pump so expensive?
The pumps are high-end, precision-machined components. They are made and intended to endure harsh external weather conditions for an extended period of time, ensuring a long service life.
16. What should I do if I’m purchasing a home with a septic system?
In the event of a house purchase that includes a septic system, it is highly suggested that you request that the system be cleaned and inspected before closing. Cleaning will help you get started on the right foot, and examining the septic system will guarantee that you know your septic system is in good working order when you move into your new home. You will have the option to request necessary repairs if the system is not up to code or is not working properly during the inspection period prior to closing on the residence.
17. Is the water safe?
If the chlorine is properly maintained and your system is operating properly, the water supply that is sprayed into your lawn is supposed to be safe for children and dogs to walk around on. Humans and pets should never drink from puddles of standing water.
18. Do I have to add chlorine?
The requirement to keep chlorine in an aerobic septic system at all times is a legal requirement in some jurisdictions. Those who violate the law can face fines of up to $2,500 per infraction, with each subsequent day constituting a separate crime.
19. Where can I purchase chlorine?
Chlorine may be purchased in the plumbing department of Home Depot or Lowe’s. It is possible to purchase chlorine from Septic Solutions, either from their office or service van. When compared to the standard retail price offered by home improvement retailers, purchasing chlorine from Septic Solutions will save you roughly $10!
20. Where do I add chlorine?
The position of the chlorine will differ depending on the kind of aerobic system you have installed. Grate pipes are typically 2 3/4″ in diameter, and they are connected to the sewer system. On most systems, you’ll find the pipe protruding from the ground near your tank lids or inside the final lid of your system. If you are having difficulty identifying your chlorinator pipe, call Septic Solutions to talk with a professional who will be able to pinpoint the exact position of your system’s chlorinator for you.
21. How much chlorine am I supposed to add?
The usual guideline is that 1-2 pills per person per week should be used in moderation. Depending on the size of your family and how much water you consume, this will be different for each individual home.
22. Do I have to use tablets or is there a different method?
1-2 pills per person each week is a good rule of thumb to follow.
Depending on the size of your family and how much water you consume, this will differ from home to household.
23. Is there a difference between a dripper and a Smart-Chlor?
Yes, a dripper is often a home-made device that drips continuously, similar to an intravenous drip. Each time your water pump starts, a Smart-Chlor is inserted into your plumbing system and is intended to dose the water with chloride. This solution reduces the need for superfluous chlorine consumption and ensures that the chlorine in your septic system is correctly regulated.
24. How much maintenance is required from me with a Smart-Chlor?
The Smart-Chlor requires little to no maintenance at all! It has a capacity of up to 6 gallons of regular home bleach, according to the manufacturer. Every 2-3 months, pour a gallon or two into the tank and you’re done! Not to mention that it comes with a lifetime warranty!
25. Will my sludge level break down by itself?
No, the sludge that has accumulated at the bottom of your septic tanks must be cleaned by a professional septic cleaning service in order to be effective.
26. How do I know when my septic is ready to be cleaned out?
Septic system cleaning should be performed when the amount of sludge in your system climbs to more than 8 inches. Septic failure might occur if the cleansing process is left unattended for an extended period of time.
27.Do aerobic septic systems have to be cleaned out?
Every three to five years, all septic systems must be cleaned up.
28. Is there a difference between pumping and cleaning the septic?
Yes. Pumping is simply the process of removing water from your septic tanks as well as some of the floating solids. Water and compacted muck that has collected in the bottom of the tanks must be properly removed, and this is accomplished through the process of “cleaning.”
29. How should I prepare for holidays and/or large gatherings?
When you anticipate hosting a big number of guests, cleaning your septic system before to the event will help you prevent an embarrassing septic system breakdown during your gathering.
30.Are there certain things I can not put into the septic?
Most items are fine in moderation; however, things like significant volumes of chemicals, grease, and other such substances are not permitted. See Septic System Do’s and Don’ts for a more in-depth list of what should and should not be put into your septic system. Septic Solutions of Texas retains ownership of the copyright and reserves all rights.
What do I do if My Septic Alarm is Going Off?
In the event that your septic alarm goes off, it may surely create some anxiety and uncertainty; and if you happen to be experiencing this right now, then you’ve arrived to the correct location! Don’t be concerned; it does not necessitate urgent action. Instead, take your time to go through this full essay so that you will be prepared to act now or in the future if the situation arises. What Septic Systems Are and How They Work The alarm works in conjunction with the septic system to alert you when the water level within the pump tank has increased to an unsafe level or has decreased to an unsafe level.
The timer is in charge of regulating the time intervals during which the pump is permitted to pump wastewater into the drainage system.
Thus, during periods of excessive water use, the drain field is kept from getting overflowing, which might cause damage to the drainage system.
A large amount of water is injected into the system in between pumping cycles for whatever cause, and the water has nowhere else to go but back into the system’s pump tank.
Depending on how much water was and continues to be put into the system and how the pump is set up to operate on a timer, it may take many pumping cycles until the water levels are returned to normal. Causes of the alarm going off in the first place
- There is an excessive amount of water being put into the septic system. This is the result of excessive water use, which might be caused by multiple loads of laundry, an excessive quantity of dishwashing, or a disproportionate number of long showers.
- Somehow, groundwater is making its way into the system. If there is an excessive amount of standing water surrounding the septic tanks, whether generated by rain or another source, the water may seep into the tanks and cause the internal water level to rise.
- It’s possible that one of the components of the septic system is malfunctioning. If anything goes wrong with your system — including the pump and floats — the alarm and timer will go off and the septic system will stop working correctly.
The Best Thing to Do If Your Alarm Goes Off Alternatively, if you hear an alert, you should press the red button or turn on the alarm box. The alarm will be turned off as a result of this action. There should be a red light and a green light on the alarm box, which should be situated someplace on the unit. The green light indicates that the alarm is operational and should be left on at all times. It is shown by a red light if the alarm is getting a signal from the pump tank indicating that the water level is increasing above or decreasing below what is expected.
- If the breaker occurs to be tripped, look around the septic tanks to see if there is any standing water.
- It is possible that the red light on the alarm box will go out on its own after allowing the septic system to operate for a couple of pump cycles (which should take approximately 10-15 hours).
- If the red light turns off, it signifies that the system is operating properly and that it only needs to catch up with the extra water that has overflowed into the storage tank.
- To be clear, an alarm signal from the septic system does not always imply that sewage is about to back up into the house right away.
- Do you require septic system repair on a regular basis or emergency service?
- Want to learn more about septic systems?
Aerobic Septic Systems and Water Flows
Aerobic Septic Systems and Water Flows in the Home The majority of home aerobic wastewater systems have a daily capacity of 500 gallons or less (gpd). This may be true in a perfect world, but in real life, don’t put your money on it. Individual systems are examined with regulated flows over a 24-hour period in order to get NSF certification. In the actual world, however, this is not how we employ them. When we use them, we do so across a 12- to 16-hour period, with the majority of our consumption taking place in the morning and evening.
- It indicates that if you put 500 gallons per minute through the system in a single day, there will be difficulties.
- There are two issues that arise as a result of this.
- The bacteria must have enough time to do its task before the sprinklers are activated.
- Solids settle out into the trash tank as wastewater goes through the system, while settable solids settle into the ATU as wastewater moves through the system.
- The intake of the pump is typically 10 inches above the bottom of the pump tank.
- The pump will attempt to transport them via the distribution system if they are not removed.
- So, what can you do to prevent this from happening?
Distribute your water consumption across the day and week.
Tankless water heaters provide virtually endless hot water, but they can result in lengthy showers.
Toilets that are leaking should be repaired quickly.
Slow down the flow of water!
You will save money if your flows are smaller and more constant.
Consider the difference between 20 gallons per hour and 500 gallons per day. The aerobic wastewater system in your home is the most critical appliance in the entire home. If you take good care of it, you will save the needless expense of fixing it. adm1naa3s2017-02-02T03:16:02+00:00
Aerobic Septic Systems
Conventional septic systems and aerobic septic systems are the two types available. Both systems achieve the same end result (sewage breakdown and effluent treatment), but the methods by which each system accomplishes that aim are distinct from one another.
Conventional Septic Systems
The design of conventional septic systems is less complex than that of aerobic systems. Solid waste is introduced into a septic tank and settles at the bottom, resulting in the formation of sludge. Similarly, liquid waste enters the same septic tank and floats to the top of the tank, resulting in the formation of a layer of scum. Anaerobic bacteria in the tank aid in the breakdown of both liquid and solid waste, resulting in wastewater that may need to be treated in a second tank before being discharged to the drain field.
Aerobic Septic Systems
Aerobic septic systems are more complicated and expensive to install. They are divided into three compartments: a waste tank, a treatment plant, and a pump tank, among others. All three compartments can be contained beneath a single unit or fitted as separate units, depending on your preference. Like typical septic systems, liquid and solid waste enters the trash tank and settles into layers, creating a layered structure. The difference comes when wastewater is transported to the treatment facility, where an aerator, which functions similarly to a fish tank pump, pumps oxygen bubbles throughout the effluent.
The additional oxygen is necessary to achieve this goal.
From here, it is deemed ecologically safe enough to be applied to surface vegetation prior to the ultimate phase of treatment, which is absorption into the surrounding soil.
can supply pumping trucks and waste disposal support for your local plumber or septic system service provider for routine cleaning or emergency repair on both conventional and aerobic septic systems, as well as for your home or business.
Aerobic Septic System Odor Diagnosis Causes & Cures for Smells at ATUs
- POSTING a QUESTION or COMMENT concerning odors coming from an aerobic septic system is encouraged.
InspectAPedia does not allow any form of conflict of interest. The sponsors, goods, and services described on this website are not affiliated with us in any way. Diagnosis of an odor problem in an aerobic septic system: Aerobic septic systems, sometimes referred to as aeration septic systems or fine-bubble aerators, are subject to a variety of difficulties, which are discussed in this article series.
Things that cause difficulties with or affect aerobic septic systems are identified and discussed. For this topic, we also have anARTICLE INDEX available, or you may check the top or bottom of the page. Use the SEARCH BOX to discover the information you’re looking for quickly.
OdorSmell Complaints at an Aerobic Septic System ATU
Follow these steps to begin diagnosing the source of smells coming from an aerobic septic system.
- Follow these steps to begin identifying the source of smells coming from an aerobic septic system:
Reader CommentsQ A
If my sewer smells terrible, it is probably because I had it pumped out around 1 1/2 years ago. I have recently added yeast and chorine to the mix, and my air pump is operational.
Reply:
Mark, yeast does not function as part of a typical septic system. Your best bet would be to contact the manufacturer of your system and ask for their recommendations as well as a copy of the device’s instruction manual. Strong, persistent scents, according to some professional sources, suggest that the aerobic septic system is not functioning properly. I agree that a severe odor problem is inappropriate, is not normal, and can be remedied if identified and addressed.
Question:
(10th of August, 2015) Sandy MacDonald expressed herself as follows: What can be done to alleviate the strong scents emanating from an ATU system, if anything? Is it necessary to take chlorine tablets? Any ideas or suggestions would be much appreciated.
Reply:
Sandy You require the services of an aerobic septic system servicing firm to examine your system’s condition. I would not make any changes to the standard disinfection procedure indicated for your particular system design until I have determined the source of the problem. It would be pointless for me to speculate more if I didn’t have any information about your system. Please keep us informed as we may be able to remark on what you’ve been told or make suggestions for questions to ask. Other from the odd faint smell near the air handling unit, there should be no foul odor emanating from the system.
- Concerning the option of operating the aerator just part-time rather than full-time, you may want to consult with the manufacturer to ensure that they believe this is an acceptable step and that it would not interfere with the performance of your water treatment.
- I have a Cajun Aire aerator, which works great.
- Our septic company has been out several times in the last several weeks trying to find out why there is such a strong stench coming from the septic system.
- Our septic system was also vented by the septic firm some years ago.
- According to Ben, if the total amount of wastewater produced each day exceeds the daily limit set into your specific aerobic septic treatment unit, the system may be unable to supply adequate aeration and oxygen to expedite the breakdown of sewage in the aerobic treatment unit tank.
Some aerobic manufacturers specifically recommend that you limit the number of washing machine loads you run per day, but there are also high-efficiency clothes washers and dishwashers available, as well as low-flow toilets, shower and faucet heads, all of which can help you reduce your daily wastewater volume, which is another approach to addressing the ATU odor issue.
WATER QUANTITY AND USE TABLES may be of use in making that comparison.
Finally, investigate if you can trace the source of the stench to a specific fixture drain: insufficient plumbing vents or blocked vents can result in the loss of the water seal in a plumbing trap, which is another source of sewage aromas in the home.
ODORS FROM PLUMBING VENT BLOCKAGEI notice a faint odor in the house, which becomes more noticeable after having a shower or using the washing machine.
You may return to the beginning of this page by clicking on AEROBIC ATU SEPTIC PROBLEMS-home, or you can choose a topic from the closely-related articles listed below, or you can browse the entireARTICLE INDEX. Alternatively, consider the following:
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- AEROBIC SEPTIC MAINTENANCE: Clearstream ATUs
- AEROBIC
AEROBIC ATU SEPTIC MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES SEPTIC SYSTEM ODOR CURES AEROBIC ATU SEPTIC MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES SEPTIC SYSTEM ODOR CURES
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AT INSPECTION, AEROBIC SEPTIC ODORSSMELLS An online encyclopedia of building environmental inspection, testing, diagnosis, repair, and issue preventive information is available at Apedia.com. Alternatively, have a look at this.
INDEX to RELATED ARTICLES:ARTICLE INDEX to SEPTIC SYSTEMS
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