Do I need Council approval to install an Aerated Wastewater Treatment System?

Yes. You will need to submit a Site and Soil Evaluation Report to your Council, along with relevant application forms and fees. 

What is a Site and Soil Evaluation Report?

This report provides vital information and determines how the effluent can be safely recycled on your site.  The report will show the design of the Land Application Area.  The Evaluator (or Geotech) recommends the best solution and design for Council approval.

What is a Land Application Area (LAA)?
A Land Application Area is an area designated for wastewater disposal. Depending on the quality of the recycled water will determine whether that water can be Surface Irrigated. Not all Aerated Wastewater Treatment Systems are approved for Surface irrigation. All treatment systems supplied and installed by Ecocycle Wastewater Solutions are approved for Surface & Sub-Surface Irrigation.

What is the difference between Primary, Secondary & Advanced Secondary effluent quality?
The Site and Soil Evaluation Report will specify what is recommended for your site.  An advanced secondary may be required if you are close to a dam or waterway or if there is insufficient depth of soil. The easiest way to explain this is by way of scenario:
The property has a dam or creek. This would mean that the following set back distances would need to be adhered to when planning the location of your Land Application Area.  As indicated by the following setback distances the water quality improves with each type of treatment system.
• Primary Treatment System (e.g. Septic Tank) – 50m
• Secondary System – 30m
• Advanced Secondary System – 10m

What is the size and weight of a treatment system?

EcoCycle supplies a range of Aerated Wastewater Treatment Systems.

Single Concrete Tank: weighs 4.5 tonne, measures 2.5m in diameter, 2.25 in height and comes with electrical control box mounted on the lid.

Twin Poly Tank Unit: comprising of 2 x 3200 litre heavy duty polymer tanks and weighing only 360kg.  This is a popular option for sloping blocks where the delivery of a concrete tank is not possible.

What are the ongoing expenses for the treatment system?

The on-going expenses are:
1. Servicing approximately $250 per year (this includes 3 - 4 services per year)
2. Cost of power - between 35 cents and 45 cents per day

How often should I have my treatment system serviced?
It is recommended that Aerated Wastewater Treatment Systems be serviced 3 – 4 times a year. The reason for this is that there are mechanical and non mechanical components within the system that if left unchecked, can cause costly repairs at a later date. A component costing $2 left unchecked, could lead to the failure of an expensive irrigation pump. We believe, it's a little like checking the oil in your car.  

When will I need to have my treatment system pumped out?
The average system needs to be pumped out between 6-10 years depending on loads put on the Aerated Wastewater Treatment Systems.

What happens to my treatment system in the event of power failure?
In the event of a power failure your treatment plant will have 1500 litres of reserve capacity. An average household with 5 occupants will use approximately 700 litres per day. It is unlikely that power failure would exceed this length of time. In the event that it does the home owner should contact their service contractor.

What is the Warranty on the irrigation pump?
There is a two year manufacturer's warranty on the irrigation pump.

Is the treatment system suitable if I wish to go on holidays, or have extended periods of non-usage?
Yes. The treatment system can be put on a timer or can be turned off for extended periods of non-usage.

Will my treatment system produce an odour?
Your treatment system should not produce any odours. Common causes of odours can be something as minor as the use of a washing powder high in phosphate. If an odour is present you should contact your service provider for advice.

When will I need to have my treatment system pumped out?
The average system needs to be pumped out between 6-10 years depending on loads put on the Aerated Wastewater Treatment Systems.

We are here to help you choose the best wastewater solution for your situation so please feel free to contact us on 5494 8188 or email us if you would like any other questions answered.