Star Treatment

By Ed Wodalski

Filed Under: Special Feature

May 2007 Issue

Innovations in technology continue to push the onsite industry forward, providing easier, safer and more aesthetic ways to protect the environment. From dual-monitoring alarms, to run-dry pumps, environmentally friendly treatment systems, creative vent filters and labor-saving accessories, manufacturers of onsite products offer new ways to treat waste. Here are some of the many products designed to save time and boost your bottom line:

Orenco Pump Vault Filter Rarely Needs Cleaning

The molded polyethylene Biotube Pump Vault from Orenco can hold one or two high-end effluent pumps and filter cartridge. With approximately 15 square feet of surface area and 4.5 feet of flow area, the cartridge rarely needs cleaning. Standard and custom heights from 48 to 95 inches are available. The vaults can be used in single-compartment tanks with flows up to 40 gpm. For larger flows, a double-compartment septic tank or separate dosing tank is recommended. For more information: 800/348-9843; www.orenco.com.

Septronics Offers Dual Monitoring in One Alarm

The TS150 and TM2 dual monitor alarms from Septronics Inc. offer two warning systems in a single alarm. Applications include sump and sewage alarm, filter and pump alarm, high-level and low-level alarm. It also can operate two units, such as duplex housing. External spade connections and a 120V, six-foot power cord creates an easy, seamless hookup. Standard features include an automatic alarms reset, green power-on LED, red LED for one alarm and yellow LED for a second alarm, horn silence, test alarm, and touch-pad operation. For more information: 888/565-8908; www.septronics inc.com.

ARC Chamber Designed for Straight or Contoured Use

The ARC 36, ARC 36 HC and ARC 24 line of leaching chambers from Advanced Drainage Systems Inc. is designed for straight or contoured applications. The lightweight unit comes in 5-foot lengths for easy transportation and installation. Made of an injection-molded composition, the chamber features a 20-degree integral articulating joint, while its modified post and dome engagement mechanism adds strength at critical connections. For more information: 800/821-6710; www.ads-pipe.com.

Tuf-Tite Risers Available in Four New Sizes

Available in 12x12, 16x12, 20x12 and 24x12 models, Tuf-Tite’s new risers can be screwed together and have been tested to IAPMO and NSF standards. The risers fit all other Tuf-Tite components, including safety pans, tank adaptor rings, safety lids and regular lids. For more information: 800/382-7009; www.tuf-tite.com.

Pipe Stand from Sim/Tech Made to Replace Straps

The STF-BTPS Bow Tie pipe stand from Sim/Tech Filter Inc. is designed for use in chamber systems where the distribution piping is suspended above the soil. A sturdy alternative to straps, the stand is independent of the chamber and can be attached to the pipe prior to placement in the trench using a squeeze and release action. Easily adjusted, the stand enables the pipe to be installed before the squirt test is performed. For more information: 888/999-3290; www.gag-simtech.com.

Sweet Air Vent Filter Tackles Septic Odors

The Sweet Air vent filter from Sweet Septic Systems Inc. is designed to put an end to septic odor flowing through house vents each time a sink, shower, dishwasher or bathtub is drained or toilet is flushed. The 3-inch and 4-inch filtering devices contain a pre-measured amount of activated carbon, stand 11.5 and 15.5 inches tall and include rain cover. The device can be attached to existing 1.5 inch or 2-inch vents with standard plumbing reducers. A 4-inch, 6-inch, 8-inch, 10-inch and 12-inch 90-degree filtering device also is available. For more information: 800/622-8768; www.sweetair.com. SludgeHammer Re-Engineered for Greater Oxygen Transfer Designed to restore biomat-clogged leachfields, the SludgeHammer Aerobic Bacterial Generator from Pirana ABG Inc. has been re-engineered to provide greater reliability, improved oxygen transfer, ease of maintenance and more power for both residential and institutional applications. The retrofit unit also retains its UPC listing with IAPMO. For more information: 800/426-3349; www.sludgehammer.net.

Fume Guard Septic Seal Provides Flexible Odor Barrier

The reusable CS-367 Fume Guard septic seal from Concrete Sealants Inc. provides an odor-trapping, pliable barrier between the manhole cleanout and cover. The airtight seal won’t harden or shrink, providing easy access for cleaning, and installs in minutes. For more information: 800/332-7325; www.conseal.com.

Quanics Interlocking Design Limits Water Intrusion

Quanics Access Systems provide easy access to septic tanks, dosing tanks and basin systems. Made of high-density, non-corrosive polyethylene, the system’s interlocking design and neoprene gaskets reduce water intrusion, while its UV protection prevents deterioration from sunlight. Tamper-resistant fasteners help reduce unauthorized access. Designed to accommodate inlet and outlet pipes up to 4 inches, the system is available in a variety of sizes and is wheel-load tested to withstand 2,500 pounds. Ribs to accept watertight grommets are available. For more information: 877/782-6427; www.quanics.net.

Goulds Pumps Designed for Reliability

Goulds Pumps from ITT Industries Inc. are designed to provide continuous duty and reliable performance in a wide range of applications. Its vertical or submersible sump and utility drainage pumps are available in 1/4- to 1 1/2-hp models, have a maximum head of 66 feet, pump up to 110 gpm and can handle solids up to 3/8 inches. Its line of submersible effluent pumps can handle solids up to 3/4 inch, are available in 1/3- to 2-hp models, can pump up to 140 gpm and have a maximum head of 240 feet, while its submersible sewage pumps, available in 1/3- to 7 1/2-hp models, can handle liquids with 2- to 3-inch solids, can pump up to 600 gpm and offer a maximum head to 82 feet. For more information: www.goulds.com.

NuConSept Tanks Don’t Require Water Ballast

NuConSept polyethylene septic tanks from Snyder Industries Inc. can be buried without the need to add water for ballast and strength. They also can be backfilled with native soils as long as the soil is free of trash and free-flowing. Available in 750-, 900-, 1,050-, 1,250- and 1,500-gallon models, the units can be used as holding tanks. Pump tank versions are available. For more information: 870/358-5119; www.snydernet.com.

EZ-Pull Offers Quick Pump and Float Removal

EZ-Pull Quick Disconnect from Webtrol enables pumps and floats to be removed or installed in a matter of seconds. The two-piece tapered male and female connector locks into place and is available in 1 1/2-inch and 2-inch FPT sizes. Made of injection molded, glass-filled thermoplastic, the unit includes an O-ring for a watertight seal, even under high head conditions. For more information: 800/769-7867; www.webtrol.com.

Ecological Tanks Offers All-in-One Treatment Unit

The all-in-one Aqua Safe TRIO advanced wastewater treatment systems from Ecological Tanks Inc. feature a pretreatment tank, aerobic tank and pump, attached with fiberglass panels for structural support. Available in 25 different models, the units come with 20-inch poly risers and have an aerobic treatment capacity of up to 750 gpd. The compressor and control can be factory mounted atop the tank or onsite. For more information: 800/277-8179; www.etiaquasafe.com.

Jet Media Plant WithstandS Shock Loads

The natural, organic and chemical-free Biologically Accelerated Treatment (BAT) Media Plant from Jet Inc. uses nature’s own resources to reduce wastewater to a clear, odorless liquid in just 24 hours. Using a NSF-certified media process to rapidly collect microorganisms naturally found in wastewater, the unit’s 700+LL aerator supplies the oxygen and the mixing that supports the treatment process. Because the organisms are attached to the media, the system can withstand 100 percent shock loads caused by parties, multiple baths, laundry and other such events without a drop in performance. For more information: 800/321-6960; www.jetcorp.com.

Bio-STEP Designed for Smaller Systems

Designed to transfer raw sewage and treated effluent in small-diameter, decentralized collection systems, the BioSTEP screened pump package from Bio-Microbics Inc. utilizes SaniTEE screening technology to deflect gross solids and promote natural settling, while accepting clarified water from between the sludge and scum layers. For more information: 800/753-3278; www.biomicrobics.com.

Flagg-Air Replaces Most Manufactured Aerators

The Flagg-Air 340 aeration unit from Septic Services Inc. features a fully enclosed, continuous-duty, double-insulated 1/4-hp motor with protective cap. The aspirator and suds restrictor are mounted on a stainless-steel shaft with corrosion-resistant counter shaft. The unit runs on a 4-amp breaker and features powder-coated steel brackets with rubber vibration restrictors. It replaces most manufactured units and has oversized, pre-lubricated and sealed bearings. For more information: 800/536-5564; www.septicserv.com.

Quick4 Chambers Can Withstand 12,000 Pounds

Available in four models, the Quick4 Standard, High Capacity, Equalizer 36 and Equalizer 24 leachfield chambers from Infiltrator Systems Inc. can withstand 12,000 pounds per axle with only 12 inches of cover. Strength certified by IAPMO, the four-foot chambers are designed for optimal installation flexibility and contouring capability in all installation applications. For more information: 800/221-4436; www.infiltratorsystems.com.

Xerxes Tanks Hold Up to 62,000 Gallons

Underground, fiberglass wastewater tanks from Xerxes Corp. are available in sizes up to 62,000 gallons. Designed for use as a pump/holding tank, the units can be used to store waste from short-load hauls until spring, or when rates at waste treatment facilities become more advantageous. The lightweight, watertight and rustproof tanks are easy to install and maintain. For more information: 952/887-1890; www.xerxescorp.com.

FRALO Tanks Feature Seamless Construction

Lightweight, FRALO Plastech blow-molded septic tanks are made of a high-strength resin, utilizing a multi-layer, co-extrusion process for water-tight, corrosion-resistant, seamless construction. Designed to perform under tough conditions, the tanks are CSA, IAPMO and UPC – third-party certified, and suitable for septic or pump tank applications. For more information: 866/943-7256; www.fralo.net.

NPCA Manual Provides Precast Manufacturing Standards

The Precast Concrete On-Site Wastewater Tanks best practices manual from the National Precast Concrete Association provides guidance for manufacturers and installers of precast tanks. The manual outlines each critical step toward attaining a watertight septic tank, including material selection, manufacturing techniques, testing, installation and more. For more information: 800/366-7731; www.precast.org.

Polylok Covers Designed to Fit U.S. and Canadian Pipe

The latest 24-inch riser cover from Polylok Inc. is designed to fit both U.S. and Canadian (IPEX) corrugated pipe. The heavy-duty, watertight covers, tested by an outside laboratory, meet both the 5,000-pound static load standard as well as the center and off-center 150-pound impact load tests. For more information: 888/765-9565; www.polylok.com.

Zoeller Fusion Combines Anaerobic and Aerobic Digestion

The Fusion Treatment System from Zoeller Co. combines the best elements of anaerobic and aerobic digestion. The ZF450 (3 bedrooms), ZF600 (4 bedrooms) and ZF800 (5 bedrooms) units have no media to change or remove. Waste enters the sedimentation chamber, which separates bulk solids and grease, flows into the anaerobic chamber, then into the aeration chamber, where it is backwashed before entering the storage chamber and re-circulated before leaving as effluent. Total volume in gallons ranges from 545 to 1,046, with daily inflow capacity of 450 to 800 gallons. The units measure from 44 to 56 inches wide, 85 to 99 inches long, 62 to 74 inches high and weigh from 463 to 882 pounds. Easily installed, the system requires no septic tank, unless mandated by local regulations. For more information: 800/928-7867; www.zoeller.com.

Septic Lids from RotoSolutions Offer Sand-Fill Option

RotoSolutions Inc. offers 18- and 24-inch septic tank lids with a sand-fill option. Made of lightweight, high-density, UV-blocking polymers, the lids are made to fit standard 18- and 24-inch corrugated pipe, and are sold in boxes of six. Its grease interceptors are available in a variety of sizes, from 7 gpm to 50 gpm and meet all IAPMO and PDI standards. For more information: 800/868-0973; www.rotosolutions.com.

Hedstrom Retrofit System Features Tamper-Proof Screws

The septic tank riser retrofit system from Hedstrom Plastics now features tamper-proof screws and a hex-drive tool bit in its gasket seal hardware pack. The durable poly covers are available in 18- and 24-inch models and sized to securely fasten and seal to installer-supplied 18- or 24-inch double-walled corrugated poly pipe. Tank adaptor plates in 18- and 24-inch sizes are available to complete the seal. For more information: 800/765-9665 (ext. 5501); www.hedstromplastics.com.

Dirty Bird Birdbath Conceals Vent, Filters Odors

The Dirty Bird birdbath from BS Design Corp. acts as a concealment device as well as odor-controlling filter for septic system vents. Featuring a serviceable charcoal filter, the device also can be used as a simple pedestal or with the optional threaded flower pot. For more information: 866/968-9668; www.bsdesigncorp.com.

Hoot-ANR Meets the Test for Nitrogen Reduction

The Hoot-ANR (advanced nitrogen reduction) system from Hoot Aerobic Systems Inc. has been shown to reduce nitrogen levels by 85 percent. In its performance evaluation, the system was dosed and sampled, not only to NSF/ANSI Standard 40, but to the newly adopted NSF Standard 245, the latest test designed to evaluate nitrogen reduction systems. Results for the ANR were below 6, with an influent strength of over 37, an 85 percent reduction on total nitrogen. The system provides a 98 percent reduction on both BOD and TSS. For more information: 877/878-4668; www.hootsystems.com.

Wolverine Filters Designed to Scrub Away Odors

Wolverine active carbon filters from Simple Solutions Distributing LLC are designed to remove waste odors, mercaptans and toxic hydrogen sulfide gases from wastewater systems and holding tanks. The unit mounts atop any septic, sewer or holding tank vent, 1 1/2 to 12 inches, and is available in carbon capacity ranges from 1.25 pounds to 50 pounds. Each unit features all-welded PVC construction, low-profile T-shaped housing to satisfy all rain requirements, perforated disc carbon containment system, and comes in socket, FPT or flange-style couplings. An optional saturation indicator to monitor carbon bed life is available. For more information: 973/846-7817; www.stopsepticodor.com.

Puraflo Peat System Offers Options for Difficult Sites

Designed for sites where conventional systems have failed or are restricted due to high water tables, restrictive layers, poor soil conditions or other concerns, the Puraflo wastewater treatment system from Bord NaMona Environmental Products U.S. Inc. uses a biofibrous peat media to filter wastewater and promote the natural growth of effluent-treating microorganisms. It also provides secondary advanced treatment for domestic strength wastewater, and can be used in decentralized or cluster-type community systems. Treatment performance over a 10-year period has averaged less than 10 mg/L TSS and less than 10 BOD, a 99 percent reduction for fecal conditions and complete elimination of pathogens. For more information: 800/787-2356; www.bnm-us.com.

Fergus Power Lid Built to Support 10,000-pound Load

Like rafters in a home, the Duel Power Lid from Fergus Power Products Inc. is designed to add stability. Built to support a 10,000-pound wheel load, the top of the septic lid is domed to meet compliance throughout the United States. The lid can be installed on concrete or dual-wall plastic risers using a stainless-steel band or lag screws. Available in either insulated or non-insulated models, the lid comes primarily in grass green and desert sand, as well as other colors. Also available is the yellow Duel Power Adaptor Ring for either concrete or plastic systems. For more information: 800/243-7584; www.ferguspowerproducts.com.