When commercial properties install a wastewater system, the choice typically comes down to a conventional septic system or an aerobic septic system. And in many cases, an aerobic septic system for commercial properties represents the better choice, for several reasons, including:
- Improved effluent quality
- Better compliance with environmental regulations
- Better performance in higher volume applications
- A smaller footprint and compatibility with challenging site conditions
- Better odor control
Aerobic septic systems are able to deliver these benefits because they process wastewater using advanced septic technology that delivers oxygen directly to aerobic bacteria. The oxygen acts like fuel for the bacteria, accelerating the breakdown process.
Why is an Aerobic Septic System a Better Option for Commercial Properties?
Aerobic septic systems aren’t just a good fit for commercial properties. In many applications, they are the preferred option over conventional septic systems. Here’s why:
- Aerobic septic systems output higher quality effluent – Aerobic septic systems process wastewater more efficiently than traditional septic tanks, as they leverage the power of aerobic bacteria to remove organic wastes out of the effluent.
The quality of effluent can be measured in terms of biological oxygen demand (BOD) or total suspended solids (TSS). BOD refers to the number of aerobic bacteria needed to break down the organic wastes in the effluent, and the lower the number, the better. If discharged wastewater has a higher BOD, it will place greater stress on any body of water receiving the waste. In extreme cases, this can deplete oxygen content in those receiving waters and disrupt the ecosystem.
TSS refers to the amount of solid waste discharged from the septic system, and higher numbers mean a higher risk of clogs.
Aerobic septic systems achieve lower BOD and TSS numbers and therefore are cleaner systems that place less stress on any post-processing waste controls. - Aerobic septic systems are better for environmental and regulatory compliance – Local environmental ordinances require commercial properties to maintain a certain level of effluent quality and to minimize their environmental impact on surrounding groundwater. Aerobic septic systems are easier to fit into these environmental regulations and ensure your property is up to standard.
- Aerobic septic systems can handle higher wastewater volumes – Aerobic septic systems are built for larger wastewater volumes and are therefore a better fit for commercial properties where those larger volumes are expected.
- Aerobic septic systems are compatible with smaller, more challenging site conditions – Aerobic septic systems require a smaller physical footprint, compared to traditional septic tanks. They can be installed in areas with a higher water table and on sites with less stable soils. In addition, aerobic septic systems require a smaller drain field, which reduces the system’s footprint further.
- Aerobic septic systems are less likely to produce unpleasant odors – Because they process waste more thoroughly and output lower concentrations of organic wastes, aerobic septic systems are less likely to offgas. People are quick to develop a negative impression of your property if foul odors are present, so avoiding them will improve the impression your company’s makes, even if it’s not immediately obvious.
What Types of Commercial Properties are a Good Fit for Aerobic Septic Systems?
Aerobic septic systems are used with a variety of commercial properties, including:
- Office buildings
- Restaurants
- Retail centers
- Schools
- Churches
- Medical facilities
- Some industrial centers (primarily those with lower wastewater volumes)
Conventional septic systems may be appropriate for some commercial applications, but only for smaller commercial centers and office buildings.
Further, many commercial properties in Houston and along the Gulf Coast are developed on unstable, clay-rich soils sitting on a high water table. These environmental conditions prohibit conventional septic tanks in many instances, so an aerobic septic system may be the only option.
Why Should Commercial Property Owners Partner with an Expert Septic Company for Their Wastewater Needs?
Whether you’re installing a new wastewater system, decommissioning an existing system or just scheduling a round of septic system maintenance, it’s highly recommended that you bring in an expert septic company to manage the job. In fact, it’s typically required by local ordinances.
But beyond those ordinances, it’s just good practice to partner with an expert septic team, especially if your property relies on an aerobic septic system.
Aerobic septic systems provide many advantages, compared to traditional septic tanks. However, they do require additional maintenance to preserve their performance. Aerobic systems feature an electrically powered air pump and controls to function, and these represent additional failure points if not maintained. As such, your aerobic septic system will require periodic inspections and service to ensure everything is working as intended.
If you’re partnered with an experienced septic company to manage that maintenance, it will be done on time and with a detail-oriented approach. And some septic companies can install remote monitoring technology like Septilink to ensure your pump and other components are functioning properly.
Are you developing a commercial property or overhauling its infrastructure? Consult with a trusted septic company to see how an aerobic septic system can better address your commercial wastewater needs.
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