Aerobic septic systems are a newer and more advanced alternative to traditional septic systems – and they’re now required in many areas of Florida. But, how does an aerobic septic system work? Let’s break down how these innovative systems treat wastewater and why they’re gaining popularity.
You may have heard about aerobic treatment units, (ATUs) in the news or from friends. Known for their eco-friendly qualities, energy efficiency, and effectiveness in challenging soil conditions, these systems are becoming more common across the country. So, how does an aerobic septic system work? Allow the septic professionals from Acme to share more about this modern style septic system’s operation and why it might be the right septic system for your home.
How Does An Aerobic Septic System Work?
Aerobic septic systems are a unique style of septic system that use oxygen to break down bacteria more efficiently than traditional septic systems. Unlike traditional septic systems, ATUs include a pre-treatment chamber and an aeration chamber, which serve separate purposes. Following are some more details on how each compartment of an ATU septic system works:
Pre-treatment chamber – Wastewater from your home flows into this chamber first. Similar to the primary chamber of a traditional septic system, the pre-treatment chamber is where liquid waste rises to the top of the tank while solid waste matter settles on the bottom. The separation of solids in this chamber prepares waste for the second phase of treatment.
Aeration chamber – In this segment of an aerobic septic system, an aerator pump injects air into the chamber, encouraging the growth of aerobic bacteria, which digests and breaks down organic matter faster than traditional waste treatment methods.
Clarifier – Following the process that takes place in the aeration chamber, partially-treated waste moves into a third chamber, where treatment continues. Any remaining solids settle on the bottom of this chamber, while treated wastewater flows on to the next stage.
Disinfection – Not all, but most ATUs include a disinfection stage in the treatment process. This final phase often uses methods that support further clarification and disinfection of partially-treated waste, such as chlorine tablets or UV light, to destroy any remaining pathogens.
Dispersal – Finally, waste has been fully treated and is ready to be distributed into your ATU septic system’s drain field. Because of the improved efficiency of the ATU compared to traditional septic systems, wastewater that reaches the drain field can be distributed much closer to the surface of the ground without the risk of contaminating surrounding groundwater or public water sources.
How Does An Aerobic Septic System Work In Areas With Poor Soil?
While the treatment process of an aerobic septic system is an improvement on the quality of waste treatment as a whole, it’s not just what happens inside the tank that sets ATUs apart from other styles of septic systems. In the mid-1900s, it was observed that many types of septic systems did not operate well in very rocky, sandy, or claylike soil.
Soil types impact your septic system’s ability to filter and treat wastewater in the final stage, which takes place in the drain field. Soil is partially responsible for how well wastewater is treated at this stage. If soil is too rocky or claylike, water is unable to move through it easily enough to allow proper filtration. If soil is too sandy, water moves through it too quickly, reducing the purity of the final wastewater product.
ATU septic systems have become a solution for those who live on properties where the installation of a septic system would otherwise be very expensive or impossible.
How Does An Aerobic Septic System Work For Your Budget?
Long-term cost savings is yet another reason why we consider ATUs to be such a great investment for homeowners. ATUs:
Help you avoid fines associated with environmental and health regulation violations
Break down solids more effectively than traditional septic systems, which helps to prevent clogs, and reduces the need for emergency septic services
Can be installed on properties that would otherwise require expensive workarounds for onsite sewage treatment.
Our Qualified Professionals Are Ready To Help
Although ATUs are popping up all over Florida, the number of companies certified to install and service them is surprisingly low. If you’re wondering where to find a qualified ATU company, look no further – Acme is fully certified and ready to help with all of your ATU needs.
Contact us today for expert-level, trusted ATU service you can always rely on.
