What is an aerobic septic system?
Aerobic septic systems are similar to conventional septic tanks, but they employ an aerobic process for digestion instead of an anaerobic process. Aerobic is with air whereas anaerobic is without air. An aerobic (with air) system doesn’t need a drainage field otherwise known as a leach field. This type of septic system can be more easily installed on a smaller property or on property close to a creek or waterway. In fact, since November 1, 2020, Oklahoma state law requires all new systems within 1,330 feet from a waterway must be an aerobic system. Furthermore, if the creek is less than 300 feet from your home, you’ll need to have a nitrogen reduction aerobic system installed. Don’t worry, JT Septic has you covered!
Another main difference between a conventional septic system and aerobic system is that the effluent, or treated water, is of higher quality in an aerobic system. That means, the treated water that goes into your soil is of better quality which then requires smaller leach fields. In fact, aerobic septic systems are more popular in the state of Oklahoma.
How does the aerobic system work?
With an aerobic system, there are a few more tanks compared to the conventional septic tanks. The aerobic system typically has a septic tank, an aeration chamber, and a clarifier in addition to equipment necessary for the system to function. The aeration chamber is where air is introduced. The injected air creates bacteria which helps treat the content within the tank. Once the water becomes treated, it moves through the clarifier. Only treated water flows through either the spray irrigation or drip system.
Spray Irrigation System vs. Drip System
Disinfected effluent (which is treated water) can be used to spray irrigation fields. The water is pumped to a sprinkler system and timed to spray in the middle of the night. Depending on how much land area is available and the type of soil absorption will determine if this is the best route to go with.
Drip irrigation lines are installed less than 10 inches below ground surface. Treated effluent does not need to be disinfected before this disbursement of water because the soil acts as a natural filter. The size of the drip irrigation field is determined by the soil on your land.
What should you be mindful of if you have an aerobic septic system?
Let’s go over some important tips to keep in mind if you have an aerobic septic system or if you are in the market for one. Firstly, the homeowner and residents should be mindful of how much water they are using.
- Avoid running multiple showers simultaneously or catching up on loads of laundry in one day.
Be mindful of what goes down the drain. Anything you can drink can go down the drain. Even if you have a garbage disposal that can handle different items, it doesn’t mean your pipes or septic systems can. - Any access covers should be safely secured.
- Monitor water usage during power outages. Because your system works with electricity, it’s important to moderate your water usage until your power comes back on. Once the power comes back on, it should recover and get back to working order.
- Avoid using commonly marketed septic treatment products. Aerobic systems are not the same as conventional systems!
Aerobic System Maintenance
JT Septic Co. can get you started with the installation process and schedule maintenance to make sure your aerobic system runs efficiently and to prolong its life. JT Septic has you covered! They provide two years of septic maintenance when installing systems. Licensed professionals at JT Septic Co. are happy to chat more about the best options for you and your home. Contact us today!
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