Aerator Septic Systems?

[wvpolekat]

Just moved into a house that has one of these. I understand the basics, but looking for some real world feedback on what to lookout for on them. The pump failed on it this morning, but the previous owner is taking care of that. But, I got some good trouble shooting experience in on it.

 

[mostly_gas]

Had one for about twenty years. replace two motors and pumped it out twice. Most of the time there was only 2 of us system was sized for 6-8 people (based on square footage)

 

[Highbeam]

You need power. If the power goes out then you need to think about not flushing waste until you can get the system running again.

These systems in my area require frequent inspections by official people.

The effluent from them is supposedly "clean" and can be disposed of in many ways. Some folks use sprinklers and some use drainfields but the bugs should be dead.

 

[wvpolekat]

Ours is on one of the generator circuits. Now I just need a generator.

Ours goes down to the drainage ditch in front of the house. The water is clear and does not smell, but I wouldn't drink it.

That I know of, the county issues a permit for it, but there are no inspections required.

 

[firedog]

Ours is 17 years old. Just replaced the discharge pump two months ago ($350). While working that issue noticed that the aerator pump was putting out enough pressure (rebuild kit was $100). Thats the first time I've had to make any repairs. (pumped out the first tank while I was at it.)

Keep an eye on the air filters so they don't get plugged up, and maintain the chorine tablets.

 

[plowking]

We have aeration systems in NH. Older versions are the White Knight or Piranha sytems put into existing septic tanks. The newer systems are self contained in three compartment tanks,it has the bio con system put out by a engineering company from Mass. It is used near environmentally sensitive areas,tidal marsh,lakes rivers. Wetlands that are classified floral or fawna may be included in environmetal regulations. Bio Con system can run well over 10-20 thousand dollars. A maintence agreement is required by State of NH between homeowner and installer of system. plowking