1. Septic Tank (Anaerobic Treatment):
The septic tank treats raw sewage by fermentation (just like making wine or beer). As such, it is important not to kill the bacteria that carry on this process by using excessive disinfectant in the household.
2. Effluent Filter:
An effluent filter on the septic tank outlet, pioneered by Waterloo Biofilter Systems Inc., screens out large particles ensuring effective treatment by the Biofilter.
3. Waterloo Biofilter (Aerobic Treatment):
The Biofilter consists of a patented absorbent filter medium, contained in a number of different ways and sized according to your daily water use. The Biofilter medium houses beneficial microbes that degrade and oxidize organic pollutants, coliform bacteria, ammonium and other contaminants in septic tank effluent.
4. Disposal or Re-use:
Disposal of the treated water is to a Waterloo Biofilter Area Bed or Shallow Pressure Trench. The Area Bed and Shallow Pressure Trench disposal methods were pioneered by Waterloo Biofilter Systems Inc. for use in the Canadian climate and are now fully approved in the Province of Ontario. With additional treatment such as disinfection and phosphorus removal, other disposal methods are also possible such as surface discharge to a body of water or even re-use in toilets.
The Waterloo Biofilter Treatment System
consists of four steps: