The Dos and Don'ts of Maintaining Your Domestic Wastewater Treatment System (DWWTS)

A well-functioning Domestic Wastewater Treatment System (DWWTS) is essential for any household, particularly those in remote locations where municipal services might not be available. Proper maintenance of your DWWTS ensures it operates efficiently, protects the environment, and prevents costly repairs. Here are some critical dos and don'ts to keep your system in top shape.

Dos

1. Do Schedule Regular Inspections Regular inspections by a professional can identify potential issues before they become significant problems. Aim for an annual check-up to ensure everything is working correctly.

2. Do Perform Routine Maintenance Regular maintenance tasks, such as checking filters, cleaning out aerators, and ensuring pumps are functioning correctly, are crucial. Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule and guidelines.

3. Do Monitor Water Usage Excessive water use can overload your system. Install water-saving fixtures and practice mindful water usage to help your DWWTS function efficiently.

4. Do Use Biodegradable Products Choose biodegradable cleaning products and avoid chemicals that can disrupt the bacteria essential for breaking down waste in your system. Opt for eco-friendly detergents, soaps, and cleaners.

5. Do Dispose of Waste Properly Dispose of cooking grease, oils, and non-biodegradable items in the trash rather than down the drain. These substances can clog your system and hinder its effectiveness.

6. Do Educate Your Household Ensure everyone in your household knows what can and cannot go down the drain. Proper education can prevent misuse and help maintain your system’s efficiency.

Don'ts

1. Don’t Flush Non-Biodegradable Items Items like diapers, sanitary products, wipes, and paper towels should never be flushed. These can cause blockages and damage your system.

2. Don’t Pour Chemicals Down the Drain Avoid disposing of harsh chemicals, paints, solvents, or medications down the drain. These can kill beneficial bacteria in your system and cause environmental damage.

3. Don’t Ignore Signs of Trouble If you notice slow drains, gurgling sounds, foul odors, or soggy spots in your yard, don’t ignore them. These are signs that your system might need immediate attention.

4. Don’t Use Excessive Water Softeners While water softeners are helpful, excessive use can harm your DWWTS by adding too much sodium, which can disrupt the bacterial balance necessary for waste treatment.

5. Don’t Overload the System Be mindful of how much water and waste your system can handle. Avoid running multiple large appliances, like washing machines and dishwashers, simultaneously.

6. Don’t Plant Trees Near the System Tree roots can infiltrate and damage your DWWTS. Ensure that any trees or shrubs are planted well away from the system to avoid root intrusion.

7. Don’t Turn Off the System During Holidays Your DWWTS should operate continuously, 24/7. The air blower and sludge return system maintain the necessary bacteria even during periods of low occupancy. Turning off the system can harm the microorganisms essential for treating wastewater. If these bacteria are destroyed by chemicals or other harmful substances, the system will require de-sludging and cleaning to restart. Avoid discharging substances like harsh chemicals, paints, or non-biodegradable items into sinks or drains as they can kill the beneficial microorganisms.

Conclusion

Maintaining your Domestic Wastewater Treatment System doesn’t have to be daunting. By following these dos and don’ts, you can ensure your system operates smoothly, safeguarding your home, health, and the environment. Regular maintenance and mindful usage are key to preventing issues and extending the life of your DWWTS. For professional maintenance services or to schedule an inspection, get in touch with us today!