An aerobic septic system differs from an anaerobic septic system largely in the types of bacteria each respective septic system employs. While anaerobic septic systems use types of bacteria that thrive in environments that have been deprived of air, aerobic septic systems use bacteria that use air in order to break down waste. Often, these aerobic bacteria are more eco-friendly than their anaerobic counterparts.
Once solid waste has been separated out, your wastewater enters into an aeration chamber. Here, the bacteria in the chamber feed on any organic material in the effluent. This process often takes far less time than the analogous process in anaerobic systems. It is also, notably, safer than its anaerobic counterparts. Because the aerobic bacteria are more efficient at breaking down waste, they also disinfect it more readily, meaning that there are fewer chances for the treated effluent coming out of your aerobic septic system to have pathogens, solids, and other pollutants.
Once your wastewater has been treated by the aerobic bacteria, anything that has not been broken down sinks to the bottom as sludge. The remaining effluent is then treated one more time to disinfect it before it is finally released back into the surrounding soil, in an area commonly called a “drain field.”
If you have an aerobic septic tank, or would like one to be installed, we at Lee Kirk & Sons Septic would be thrilled to help you. Our competitive installation pricing, as well as our free estimates, make us one of the best choices in the Lakeland, Florida area for all of your septic tank needs.