Problem: Chewonki, an internationally recognized environmental education nonprofit focused on nature-based education and stewardship in Wiscasset, Maine, wanted to reduce or eliminate pumping frequency of its grease interceptor and the downstream septic system while also lessening loading to its leachfields. The grease interceptor was sending significant FOG to the septic system, creating a very thick and hard buildup of biosolids when mixed with the black and grey water, resulting in a thick biomat that was hard to pump out.
Solution: IMET installed two aerobic biological Grease Interceptor Modules directly into the grease interceptor to pretreat the grease interceptor waterbody before discharging to the three-tank septic system. The modules installed also began to seed the downstream septic system with aerobic microorganisms.
Result: Within two days of installation, the thick FOG layer in the grease interceptor was gone, with only translucent milky water remaining. Since installation in 2021, the grease interceptor has sustained no FOG buildup and has not required any pumping. The downstream septic tank, seeded by the IMET system, has had its pumping requirement reduced by 50%. The camp is very happy with the results and is planning to install six IMET modules in the three tank septic system to provide complete treatment before effluent water is discharged to the leachfield. 216-906-1066; www.imet.net
