Wastewater Treatment System Do’s and Dont’s

Do not allow rainwater, groundwater or large volumes of water such as those from swimming pools, Jacuzzi’s into the wastewater treatment plant. Excessive water will increase the flow rate through the plant not allowing sufficient treatment time and may also flush the micro-organisms out.

Do not dispose of nappies, sanitary towels, baby wipes, cosmetic and cleaning wipes or similar, rags or non-bio-degradable material down the toilet as they block the drains and also cause malfunction in the plant.

Do not overuse bleach and disinfectants. These are safe to use in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines and in the minimum necessary concentration.

Do not switch off the plant while going on holidays. The plant should operate 24 hours per day, seven days a week. The air blower and the sludge return system maintain the bacteria during period of low occupancy. If the micro-organisms are destroyed due to the ingress of chemicals (or any of the products listed below) into the plant, the plant will have to be de-sludged and cleaned to restart the population of micro-organisms. The following substances will kill the working micro-organisms in the plant and should not be discharged of into the sinks or drains.

Do not pour neat bleach or disinfectants down the sink or outside drains. Often these are inappropriately used to treat foul odours from sinks and drains. However these foul smells are caused by a build-up of decaying material or a plumbing problem which should be dealt with using an appropriate method.

Don’t allow pesticides, paints, thinners, solvents, gardening chemicals or hazardous substances into the plant.

Do not pour Fats, grease or any oil down the sink or outside drains as this clog the plant.

Do not dispose of medicines down the sink. Dispose of as per the manufacturer’s instructions.

Do not use sink macerators unless the plant is specifically designed to accept this increased organic load. Sink macerators result in additional maintenance.
Some everyday products, such as milk, wine, beer can increase the organic load on the plant and cannot be disposed of down the sink or outside drains.