It is important that mechanical components in aerobic systems receive regular inspection and maintenance. For example, air compressors sometimes need to be oiled, and vanes, filters, and seals may need to be replaced. Malfunctions are common during the first few months after installation. In most cases, homeowners do not have the expertise to inspect, repair, and maintain their own systems. If your unit carries the NSF approval, it will include the first two years of service visits with the purchase price and an option to renew the service contract after two years. It is a good idea for homeowners to renew their service agreements after two years, or to find another service organization to take over the job.

In addition to routine maintenance, NSF requires service contractors to stock replacement parts for mechanical components and to be available for emergency servicing. Under the original two-year agreement, failed equipment is replaced at no additional cost to the homeowner. The service contract may or may not cover such problems as damage from power failures, breaking or crushing of pipes leading to and from the system, flooding, fires, homeowner misuse, and other catastrophies beyond the control of the manufacturer.

Service visits will most likely be carried out by the dealer or another independent service organization that has an agreement with the manufacturer. In other cases, health departments will have maintenance management programs, such as sanitary districts, for aerobic systems and other onsite systems in their area.

What to Expect at a Service Visit

The first service visit should be scheduled immediately after the system is installed to make sure that everything is working correctly. The service contractor may also arrange a meeting with the homeowner to go over issues, such as proper operation, what to do in case of emergency, etc. For seasonal properties, homeowners will need to know how to shut the system down in the off season and start it again when needed. After the first visit, the maintenance service contract is issued to the homeowner. The maintenance contract may include at least two service visits per year for the next two years. The number of visits and service performed will differ from unit to unit and location to location depending on manufacturers' recommendations and local regulations.

During a typical visit, the service provider will remove the unit's cover and check its general appearance. He or she will check pipes and the inside of the aeration chamber, and will note the appearance of the wastewater inside the unit and its color and odor. If the unit includes a chlorinator, this too will be checked and may be cleaned. Samples may be taken of the mixed liquor from the aeration chamber, as well as the final treated wastewater. The operator will also check to see that all mechanical parts, alarms, and controls are in working order, and that solids are pumped from the system if needed.

The soil absorption field, sand filter, or other method of final treatment may also be inspected by the
service provider.

It is a good idea for the homeowner or the service provider to keep detailed records about the system and service visits. The state license, the date the system was installed, the type of disinfection, and any modifications to the system should also be recorded. Other important information to keep on hand includes where to contact the owner if nobody is home, where to find a key to the system, and the schedule for service visits. Homeowners should keep their own copies of all records and permits.

Reprinted from Pipeline, Winter 1996; Vol. 7, No. 1.