The Benefits of the SBR (Sequenced Batch Reactor) System Unlike other treatment systems that contain a mechanical

l component that requires constant electrical power, SBR systems treat the wastewater intermittently (in batches) resulting in reduced energy consumption and therefore reduced electricity bills. This intermittent treatment also places less strain on the mechanical components in the system and as such SBRs are typically less susceptible to break-downs and the associated costs. The SBR provides a complete to wastewater treatment solution , as the incoming sewage is clarified and biologically treated in one compact and robust tank. The outgoing effluent is treated to the highest required E.U. standard for Suspended Solids, Nitrates, Ammonia and B.O.D. SBR systems demonstrate great operating flexibility and control, making them ideally suited to dwellings with great seasonal variation in hydraulic loading. An SBR serving a holiday home, for example, can be customised to operate at reduced rate during the Winter months as the system would only be receiving a fraction of the peak hydraulic load experienced during the Summer. All modifications to the operating of an SBR system should be carried out by a suitably qualified technician and should be in compliance with local authority regulations.

Wastewater Treatment Unit vs. Septic Tank The modern septic tank is usually constructed from plastic or concrete and consists of two chambers. Raw sewage enters the first chamber via an inlet pipe. The majority of the heavy solids then settle to the bottom of the tank with the lighter solids forming a scum on top of the liquid layer. Once the settled wastewater reaches a certain level in the primary chamber it travels through an overflow pipe into the secondary chamber. As in the primary chamber, remaining solids will separate out into a sludge and scum layer and the liquid effluent exits the tank through the outflow pipe and travels on to the percolation area. Although effective at removing suspended solids from the sewage, there is not a significant chemical treatment and the effluent may still contain high levels of harmful nitrates and ammonia.

Image courtesy of John Kasawa at FreeDigitalPhotos.net Due to an effort to improve effluent (and subsequently groundwater) quality, most local authorities are strongly biased towards Wastewater Treatment Units that are effective at reducing levels of Ammonia, Nitrogen and BOD (Biochemical Oxygen Demand) in the effluent. In a conventional Treatment Unit the incoming sewage will enter a primary settlement chamber (not unlike that of a septic tank) and then pass on to a secondary chamber where bacteria will feed on and break down the harmful chemicals present. The growth of these bacteria is most commonly stimulated by aerating the sewage with a mechanical air blower, rotating disc or bubbles of compressed air. The treated effluent is then transferred (either by pump of gravity flow) to the piped percolation area. The resultant effluent from the Wastewater Treatment Unit if treated to a much higher standard than that of a Septic Tank. In order to determine whether a site is suitable for a septic tank or Mechanical treatment Unit a site suitability assessment (including a percolation test) must be carried out by an approved site assessor.

Septic Tank Inspection in Ireland In June 2012 the Irish Government launched a septic tank inspection scheme which is designed to improve groundwater quality in Ireland. Under this legislation it is the responsibility of the homeowner to ensure that their septic tank is in correct working order and has been de-sludged regularly. All homeowners with septic tanks or similar systems must register with their local authority who will then schedule a date for inspection. If the tank passes the inspection (which is

carried out by an EPA appointed inspector) then no further action need be taken on the part of the homeowner. Alternatively, if the tank does not meet the required standard, an advisory notice will be dispatched by the local authority detailing whether a system upgrade or maintenance is required. A means tested government grant is available if remedial work needs to be carried out.

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