| How does an AWTS work? |
|
Wastewater from a household is treated in stages in several separate chambers. The first chamber is similar to a conventional septic tank. The wastewater enters the chamber where the solids settle to the bottom and are retained in the tank forming a sludge layer. Scum collects at the top, and the partially clarified wastewater flows into a second chamber. Here the wastewater is mixed with air to assist bacteria to further treat it. A third chamber allows additional clarification through the setting of solids, which are returned for further treatment to either septic chamber or to the airration chamber. The clarified effluent is disinfected in another chamber (usually by chlorination) before irrigation can take place. Bacteria in the first chamber break down the solid matter in the sludge and scum layers. Material that cannot be fully broken down gradually builds up in the chamber and must be pumped out periodically. How often depends on numbers of persons, water used, etc, and sludge readings should be taken by your service person who will advise. |