The term “sewage treatment” tends to make people think of underground pipes or big tanks. However these are just two examples of different types of sewage treatment systems and in this article we are going to look at the different types of system available and how they could be appropriate for different people in various circumstances.
Different terms
You may not always see sewage treatment referred to in this way. Another possible term may be “wastewater treatment”. Essentially whatever term is used the central concept is the same.
Essentially sewage is waste that can come from homes, businesses, factories and so forth. This waste is made up of waste liquid that comes from showers, baths, sinks as well as liquid disposed by industries. This can also combine with rainwater, sediment and animal waste (often this is why we have combined systems designed to handle both sewage and anything natural that can be separated from it.
In recent times more waste water has been separated into what we call “grey water”- in effect recycling this liquid so it can be reused again (for example in toilets or watering plants.)
Different types
- Cesspool- A sealed underground tank for storing sewage (Need approval to have one and it needs emptying on a regular basis.)
- Septic tank- Similar to a cesspool with the additional benefit that it can sort some of the waste. Modern designs tend to be bottle shaped and as with cesspools you need approval before installing one.
- Sewage treatment plant- A conventional plant combines a septic tank, a filter bed for biological treatment and a tank to settle out fine solids. These tend not to need electrical power but need to be properly designed with consent from the local authority and environment agency. More recent designs do come with electrical power.
- Reed bed treatment- Similar to the other sewage plant methods but with the addition of a reed bed that naturally purifies sewage.
- Gravity drain- A method of draining waste directly to the main sewers.
- Underground pumping station- Lifting waste upward toward the main sewers with a specially positioned underground pump.
- Agricultural and trade effluents- It is possible to clean and discharge waste from trade and agriculture. However the process requires very specialist advice and a specific effluent consent needs to be granted by the Environment Agency.
Play it safe
As you can see there are a range of methods you can use to clean up waste water, regardless of whether you are looking to clean up liquid in your home or your business. However it is also important to be aware of doing this effectively and safely.
This is why we recommend using the right tools and getting the right advice. For more information please contact us here and we will be happy to discuss the best options to suit your needs.