INFORMATION FOR THE OWNER OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE
The operation of a SHAW PEAT SYSTEM is the same as for any conventional on-site wastewater treatment system. There are three areas where the actions of the home owner can have an effect on the system:
(1) MATERIALS DISPOSED OF THROUGH THE HOUSEHOLD PLUMBING FIXTURES - The use of garbage disposal units is not recommended because their use increases the amount of suspended particulate matter in the septic tank effluent. The suspended particles can be carried over into the peat tanks where they can cause premature failure. Where a garbage disposal is installed additional septic tank retention is required such as a two compartment septic tank, or two tanks in series. Filters should be used on the effluent line from the septic tank to prevent carry over of excessive solids. Filters require regular maintenance by the owner.
The use of normal household cleaning chemicals such as bleach, detergents, and cleaning agents will not cause problems in the system if they are used according to directions and not in excessive amounts. Other chemicals used around the house such as paint, paint thinners, glue, furniture strippers, oils and commercial greases, and darkroom chemicals must not be disposed of via the household plumbing. Large quantities of grease and oil used in frying must be disposed of with the solid waste and not dumped down the drain.
Only readily biodegradable materials may be disposed of in the system. Disposable diapers, condoms, sanitary napkins and tampons, kitty litter, facial tissues, paper towels, coffee grounds, coffee filters, and similar products must be disposed of with the solid waste. Introducing them into a septic system may cause relatively rapid failure of the system.
(2) THE SEPTIC TANK - The purpose of a treatment tank, commonly called a septic tank, is to remove solids, greases and oils from the wastewater. The use of septic tank starters or additives is not recommended or necessary. Septic tanks must be pumped out on a periodic basis to prevent carry-over of solids to the peat modules.
(3) THE SHAW PEAT SYSTEM MODULES - As the septic tank effluent passes through the peat in the SHAW PEAT SYSTEM modules, the pollutant concentrations are greatly reduced.
As with any on-site wastewater disposal system no vehicular traffic should be allowed on the surface of the system. The back-flush from a water treatment system should not be disposed of in any on-site wastewater treatment system. If the surface of the peat in the SHAW PEAT SYSTEM modules is planted to grasses it may be mowed during the growing season with a power mower, but not with a riding mower. If the surface is planted to shallow rooted vegetation and not mowed, it should be weeded at least once every 2 years to remove deep rooted vegetation that may start growing in the peat.
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