The population is on the rise, and as a result, the rural communities have found it necessary to look for decentralised ways of treating the wastewater which they produce in their homes. The systems are amazing because they offer a long-term solution to waste management. However, not many people follow the proper processes in managing the systems, which means that they break down a lot. When the systems break down, your license could be revoked.
Build-up of hair, fibres and large solids in the system
When installing a water treatment plant, the first thing you need to think about is screening systems which remove large and non-biodegradable solids from the system. Some of the solids which block the systems include rags, water, plastic bags, containers and pieces of wood. Screening is done at two levels, coarse screening and fine screening. Screens can be cleaned manually or mechanically. Additionally, there are cleaning products which add to the effectiveness of the screen cleaning systems.
Effluent failure to meet total nitrogen target
To determine whether your treatment plant is meeting the stipulated nitrogen targets, you need to test for ammonia, nitrite and nitrate concentration. Lack of a proper balance reduces the effectiveness of the waste treatment system. When the ammonia levels are high, the overall TN levels will be high. To remove ammonia from the system, you will need guidance from an expert. The expert will ensure that your system has enough oxygen to facilitate nitrification of ammonia and reduction of nitrates into nitrogen. Note that when the nitrification of ammonia is not happening properly, reduction also fails.
Too much odour emanating from the system
When you have too many complaints about odours emanating from your system, it is an indication that your system has excessive levels of hydrogen sulphide. Hydrogen sulphide is has a strong and pungent odour, and is highly corrosive and can ruin downstream equipment. When you have a problem with odours, check the influent pump station and ensure that the raw wastewater is not getting exposed to oxygen during the initial clarifier stage.
These are three of the most common problems which affect home wastewater treatment systems. The most essential thing to do is to ensure that the entire system is getting regular maintenance and repairs at all times. If there are problems, consult an expert about the maintenance and repairs which will get the systems up and running again.
For more information, contact a company like Econocycle.