Eco sewer treatment refers to on-site systems that treat household or commercial wastewater to a defined standard, rather than discharging it untreated or trucking it away. It is used where connecting to a municipal sewer is impractical or unavailable.
The basic process
- Primary stage — solids settle out of the incoming wastewater
- Biological stage — micro-organisms break down dissolved organic material, usually with aeration
- Clarification — remaining solids separate from the treated water
- Final treatment — disinfection or additional polishing depending on the system and requirements
- Discharge or reuse — treated effluent is disposed of or used in permitted applications
Where it applies
Rural properties and smallholdings, estates and developments where sewer capacity is constrained, commercial sites with fluctuating occupancy, and any property outside a serviced area.
Environmental considerations
The point of on-site treatment is to prevent untreated wastewater reaching groundwater or surface water. Distance from boreholes, watercourses and boundaries matters, as does the soil and groundwater depth. These systems reduce impact — they do not eliminate it. They consume electricity and require servicing.
Maintenance is not optional
A treatment plant contains a living biological process plus mechanical components. Overloading it, neglecting servicing or flushing unsuitable substances will degrade performance. Expect scheduled inspections, servicing of blowers and pumps, and periodic desludging. Any supplier describing such a system as maintenance-free should be treated with caution.