If you have decided to build a new home far away from a major urban area, you may not have access to a sewer system. If this is the case, you will need to learn about domestic wastewater treatment. Domestic wastewater treatment is the process of preventing contaminants from entering freshwater resources and the environment. This process includes both primary, secondary treatments and tertiary treatments. Read on to find out more about treating wastewater and maintaining a septic tank!
Primary wastewater treatment
Primary wastewater treatment is the first process of removing solid material from wastewater. The wastewater is drained into a large septic tank. While stored in the tank, the waste begins to separate with fats rising to the surface and heavier particles sinking to the bottom.
Secondary wastewater treatment
The secondary stage is where biological treatments are started. The sewage is pumped over a series of tanks filled with friendly bacteria, which digest soluble organic compounds into carbon dioxide gas and water. Sludge settles out in these tanks as solids that need to be removed. The sludge is pumped to an aeration tank where it receives oxygen to break down. When the sludge has broken down, it can be pumped out to be used as fertiliser.
Tertiary wastewater treatments
The tertiary level of treatment is primarily aesthetic and includes a lime softening process to remove the odour from wastewater. The lime acts as a coagulant to attract particles and separate them from water. The lime particles form a sludge that is pumped out.
Steps to maintain your septic tank
The septic tank located in the basement or ground floor of your house can be easily damaged by freezing, so keep the level of solids in the tank down to prevent damage. You should avoid putting grease down your sink and shower drains as this will cause problems for your septic system. Debris like paper, food waste, coffee grounds and plastic will be attracted to the solids in your tank and can clog up your drains. If you do have a leaky septic system, it is vital that you fix this before there is any damage. Get in touch with a reputable drain cleaner so you can have the problem fixed quickly.
If you need more information on domestic wastewater treatment, you should make contact with a local septic service today. A contractor will be happy to answer any questions you may have about the process of treating domestic wastewater.