Residential wastewater treatment systems are designed to treat wastewater from homes, small businesses, and small recreational areas. These systems are typically used to treat wastewater from sinks, showers, and toilets and are typically sized to accommodate one to four households. Residential wastewater treatment systems are typically comprised of a septic tank, a pump chamber, and a subsurface or above-ground dispersal system. The septic tank serves as the first stage of treatment and primary solids are separated from the wastewater in the tank.
The wastewater then flows into the pump chamber, where it is pumped to the dispersal system. The dispersal system is composed of a network of trenches, mounds, or other systems that allow the wastewater to slowly infiltrate into the soil. The soil then acts as a natural filter and removes contaminants from the wastewater before it enters groundwater or surface water.
These systems can include a range of different technologies such as septic tanks, aerobic treatment units, advanced wastewater treatment, and others. The systems are designed to ensure that wastewater is treated to a level that meets local regulations, while also protecting the environment and public health. A typical residential wastewater treatment system includes a septic tank, which captures and stores wastewater from the home, and then sends it to a drain field where natural processes such as evaporation, filtration, and absorption occur, to reduce the levels of pollutants in the wastewater.
Advanced wastewater treatment systems may also include additional technologies such as aerobic treatment units, which use oxygen to break down contaminants, and ultraviolet light to kill bacteria. Additionally, many residential wastewater treatment systems include an alarm system to alert homeowners if the system is not functioning properly.