A sewage treatment plant provides an effective way to manage wastewater when a property is not connected to the main sewer network. Although a well maintained system should operate reliably, mechanical faults, blockages and general wear can affect its performance.
Recognising the signs your sewage treatment plant needs repair can help you act before a minor fault develops into an expensive breakdown. Here are seven warning signs that should be investigated by a professional engineer.
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Warning lights or alarms are active
Modern sewage treatment plants often have warning lights or alarms that activate when the system detects a problem. The cause could be a failed pump, a faulty blower, an electrical issue or an unusually high water level.
Do not ignore an alarm, even if the drainage system appears to be working normally. Continuing to use the plant without investigating the fault could damage important components or allow untreated wastewater to leave the system.
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Persistent unpleasant smells
A properly functioning sewage treatment plant should not produce strong or persistent odours. Unpleasant smells around the plant, drainage field or property may indicate poor treatment performance, blocked ventilation or excessive sludge.
An engineer can inspect the system, identify the source of the smell and recommend the appropriate repair or maintenance work.
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Wastewater is draining slowly
Slow draining toilets, sinks, baths and showers can indicate a blockage in the pipework leading to the treatment plant. It may also mean that the plant is overloaded or unable to discharge treated water correctly.
If several drains are affected at the same time, the problem is likely to be within the main drainage system. A CCTV drain survey can help locate blockages, damaged pipes or displaced joints.
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Wastewater is backing up
Wastewater backing up into toilets, sinks or showers is a serious warning sign that requires prompt attention. It could be caused by a blocked inlet pipe, excessive sludge, pump failure or a problem with the discharge system.
Avoid using unnecessary water until the system has been inspected. Continued use could lead to internal flooding and further contamination.
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Water is collecting around the plant
Standing water or unusually wet ground around the treatment plant may indicate an overflow, damaged pipework or a blocked discharge arrangement. The ground may also appear greener than the surrounding area because it is receiving excessive wastewater.
Keep people and animals away from the affected area and arrange a professional inspection as soon as possible.
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The plant is making unusual noises
Pumps and blowers normally create some operating noise. However, grinding, rattling, buzzing or unusually loud sounds may indicate that a component is worn, obstructed or close to failure.
Early repair may prevent damage to other parts of the system. If the plant becomes completely silent when it would normally be operating, this could also indicate a power or mechanical fault.
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Treatment performance has declined
Cloudy discharge, recurring smells and excessive solids may suggest that the plant is no longer treating wastewater effectively. This can happen when mechanical components fail or when the biological process is disrupted by unsuitable chemicals.
Bleach, solvents, fats, oils, wipes and sanitary products can all interfere with the system. A professional assessment can determine whether repairs, cleaning, desludging or adjustments are required.
Arrange professional sewage treatment plant repairs
Regular servicing can identify developing problems before they cause a complete system failure. It also allows pumps, blowers, filters and controls to be inspected, cleaned and tested.
BSA Environmental provides sewage treatment plant repairs, servicing and maintenance throughout Solihull, Worcestershire, Shropshire and the wider West Midlands.
If you have noticed alarms, odours, slow drainage, standing water or unusual noises, call 01564 784899 or 07538 467 611. You can also email info@bsaenvironmental.co.uk to arrange an inspection.
