Low-Pressure Pipe Systems
LPP systems are found at many residences and small businesses up and down the OBX. These systems increase the volume of waste water that a septic system can handle without significantly increasing the area of the drain field. The majority of solids are removed from the waste water by settling in the septic tank and filter, the waste water is then pumped by 1 or 2 effluent pumps to the drain field. Systems will also have a control panel that contains the wiring for the float switches, pump controls, cycle counters, breakers and other components.
Permit requirements for these systems include an inspection and basic maintenance 2x/year. This inspection will include measuring the depth of solids and scum in the septic tank and pump tank, washing the filter if applicable, flushing solids out of the LPP lines and setting the pressure head for the system. The certified operator will also check for proper pump, float and alarm operation. With each inspection, the operator will report the operating condition of the system to the local environmental health department and inform the owner of any repairs that need to be made to ensure permit compliance and system operation.
Permit requirements for these systems include an inspection and basic maintenance 2x/year. This inspection will include measuring the depth of solids and scum in the septic tank and pump tank, washing the filter if applicable, flushing solids out of the LPP lines and setting the pressure head for the system. The certified operator will also check for proper pump, float and alarm operation. With each inspection, the operator will report the operating condition of the system to the local environmental health department and inform the owner of any repairs that need to be made to ensure permit compliance and system operation.
Peat Systems
These systems are commonly installed on properties that do not have enough land to have an adequate drain field. The peat pods will be filled with a loamy peat that provides a surface for the biological treatment of the wastewater. The number of peat pods a house may have will vary from 2 to 8 pods depending on the type of peat system and the size of the house. These systems may be gravity fed or can be fed by effluent pumps after the wastewater has passed through the septic tank and the filter tank.
Permit Requirements for peat systems generally include an inspection and basic maintenance 2x/year and effluent sampling 1x/year. Inspections of these systems include measuring the depth of solids and scum in the septic tank(s) and pump tank, washing the filter, and assessing the condition of the peat fiber. 1x/year the peat must be raked to help the system treat more efficiently and last longer.
Permit Requirements for peat systems generally include an inspection and basic maintenance 2x/year and effluent sampling 1x/year. Inspections of these systems include measuring the depth of solids and scum in the septic tank(s) and pump tank, washing the filter, and assessing the condition of the peat fiber. 1x/year the peat must be raked to help the system treat more efficiently and last longer.
Aerobic Treatment Units, Bioclere, Advantex, Clearstream etc
Aerobic Treatment Units are designed to treat waste water with varying organic and nutrient concentrations in a fashion similar to a small waste water treatment plant. On the Outer Banks, these systems are primarily found at large homes, restaurants, and hotels. These systems are one of the most advanced types of residential waste water treatment systems and have components that include: septic tanks, filter tanks, pump tanks, dosing pumps, recycle pumps, effluent pumps, and a low-pressure pipe drain field.
Permit Requirements for aerobic treatment units can vary significantly.
Permit Requirements for aerobic treatment units can vary significantly.