Sewage treatment units generally work by combining air with a large surface area on which micro-organisms can grow. These micro-organisms remove harmful pollutants from the waste stream which would if they reached a water course cause pollution and damage to the aquatic plant and animal life.
At Wilkinson’s we have a broad practical and theoretical knowledge which allows us to understand that there are many factors that can upset the treatment process.
- One of the most common problems experienced is water ingress from either the surface or ground. Excessive volumes of water above the design parameters of the system prevent full treatment taking place. It is important that any cracked or broken foul drains are repaired. Rain water entering foul drains through guttering or ill fitting manhole covers also needs to be diverted.
- The size of an existing unit needs to be checked. Houses and commercial premises can expand over time above and beyond the design capacity of the original unit affecting the quality of effluent being discharge.
- Treatment may also suffer from reduced efficiency or even fail if household cleaning products are used in excessive amounts. Fats, oils and grease are common causes of treatment failure as these film the media preventing micro-organisms from sticking to the media or suffocating those already attached.
- We will use our experience to provide you with advice regarding the frequency of emptying; it is possible to use the manufacturer’s recommendations but it can alter depending on the loadings.
