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There are a plethora of technologies in use in the state of Washington today. No matter how high or low tech your system there are some basic components they all have in common.

Septic and pump tanks are the first stop for all of the wastewater, or effluent, leaving your home. The tanks give the effluent time to settle and biodegrade. The intent is for all of the organics to break down and the solids settle to the bottom of the tanks. This accomplishes two things:

All of the bacteria needed to accomplish the goal are naturally occurring. No additives are necessary to keep your tank healthy nor should any be added to your tank. The solids will need to be removed periodically as part of the routine maintenance and upkeep of your system.

The tanks will be followed by the main treatment components of your system.

Traditional systems, gravity or pressure distribution drainfields, are made up of gravel lined trenches through which the effluent is filtered prior to entry into the groundwater system.

Many sites require pretreatment of the effluent and employ a secondary component. This second component treats the effluent between the tanks and the drainfield. Common pretreatment components include sandfilters, mounds and aerobic treatment units (ATUs).

Other new technology has come into use in the state of Washington more recently. Systems such as Glendon® Biofilter Technology, Advantex® Packed Bed Filters, drip irrigation and others all have established a good track record. We have found these systems to be of use in working with our more challenging projects.

The fully treated effluent reaches its final destination when it re-enters the groundwater system.