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An aerobic treatment system (ATS), often called an aerobic septic system, is a small scale sewage treatment system similar to a septic tank system, but which uses an aerobic process for digestion rather than just the anaerobic process used in septic systems.
How does an aerobic septic system 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.
What is the difference between septic tank and aerobic system?
The basic difference between aerobic and anaerobic septic systems is the presence or absence of oxygen. Traditional anaerobic septic systems operate in underground tanks and in the relative absence of oxygen. Aerobic septic systems are thus able to support aerobic forms of bacteria.
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.
Do I need an aerobic septic system?
Even in properties where the soil condition is inadequate for proper wastewater treatment, an aerobic system still performs well. An aerobic septic system is a good option for homes located close to surface water bodies. Surface bodies of water, such as lakes, are sensitive to effluent contamination.
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 an aerobic septic system be pumped?
How Often Should My Aerobic System Be Pumped? There are many variables that affect how often your system needs to be pumped. This is determined by the usage of your system, and the number of people living in your home, we suggest that your system be pumped every three to five years.
How do you care for an aerobic septic system?
Here are the dos: Regularly Inspect Your Septic System. Pump Out Whenever Necessary. Be Water-wise. Use Licensed, Certified Companies. Flush Solids Down the Drains. Pour Harsh Chemicals in Your Toilets. Park Cars or Trucks on Your Drainfield or Reserve Area. Add Septic Tank Additives.
Is aerobic septic better than conventional?
Liquid and solid waste enters the trash tank and settles into layers, just like conventional septic systems. The added oxygen is necessary to provide a stable environment for aerobic microbes, which break down waste faster and more effectively than anaerobic microbes used in the conventional system.
Which septic system is best?
The best choice is a precast concrete septic tank. Precast septic tanks hold many advantages over plastic, steel, or fiberglass tanks. This is why so many cities and towns actually require the use of concrete septic tanks.
Is aerobic system water safe?
Is the water safe? If the chlorine is being correctly maintained and your system is functioning properly, the water supply spraying onto your lawn is designed to be safe for children and pets to walk on.
How big is an aerobic septic system?
Aerobic treatment units are available in a range of sizes, including those able to treat 500, 600, 750, 1,000, and 1,500 gallons per day.
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.
Where are aerobic septic systems used?
Suitable in all Types of Land One of the greatest benefits of aerobic septic systems is that they can be used in all types of land. Other septic systems cannot be used in land with high groundwater. No matter the type of soil you have, an aerobic septic system will be suitable.
Can aerobic septic systems freeze?
Water holds a great deal of heat, and with daily use, septic tanks rarely freeze, even in the coldest weather. However, when the house is vacant for a week or more, water does not enter the tank to keep it warm and it may freeze. Using a snow fence to trap snow over the tank also will help.
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.
Can you use bleach if you have a septic tank?
You might consider bleach to be a great cleaner to use for your septic system. Unfortunately, that mindset is a dangerous one to have because it’s usually recommended to avoid using bleach in your septic system. The chemicals within bleach can kill the bacteria that your septic tank relies on.
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.
What are signs of septic tank problems?
7 Warning Signs Your Septic System Is Failing Gurgling Pipes. They would occur when you run water in the house (e.g. when using the sink or shower) or flush the toilet. Bad Odours. It’s never a pleasant experience when this occurs. Water At Ground Level. Green Grass. Slow Drainage. Blocked Pipes.
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 do I clean my septic tank naturally?
You can mix about a 1/4 cup of baking soda with 1/2 cup of vinegar and 2 tablespoons lemon to make your own natural cleaning agent. The baking soda will fizz up to help get the dirt and grime in your tub and drains. It’s a great cleaner and your septic system will thank you!May 27, 2016.
