
The system basics of a Aerobic Septic system.
Identify and mark the aerobic and black water tank access ports for quick service. Know chlorination requirements when needed and plan quarterly checks plus spare parts on hand.
Learn how a two-tank aerobic septic system works: anaerobic solid tank produces hydrogen sulfide odor, while the aerobic tank digests nutrients with oxygen, with chlorination and venting to sanitize effluent.
Dumping rv wastewater into an aerobic septic system is not allowed; rv tank chemicals sanitize the system, and the typical 200–250 gallon rv load exceeds capacity.
Avoid using supplemental septic tank chemicals in an aerobic system; they are unnecessary and can clog sprinklers or damage the outflow pump. Rely on natural aerobic and anaerobic bacteria.
Explore how big aerobic systems can be, illustrated by a six-person household, and learn to spread laundry and use effluent to water trees.
Learn to protect an aerobic septic system by testing cleaners in a jar, avoid flushing paper towels and fats, and use mild cleaners like Bon Ami and Bar Keeper's Friend.
Know when your aerobic septic system is working by checking the compressor, spray field, vent pipe, and chlorinator, and observe smells and system triggers like laundry or showers.
Learn the essentials of septic plumbing, including p-traps and vent stacks, keeping traps full to avoid odors, using cleanouts, checking for leaks, and avoiding chemicals that damage tank lining.
Regular pumping and maintenance prevent thousands in costs from damaged tanks, clogged aerators, and failed pumps in a three-tank septic system. Without upkeep, fines and costly replacements follow.
Install a pressure relief valve and automatic filter drain valve on your sprinkler system, monitor with gauges and a window, and use a thermometer to prevent freezing.
Explore essential compressor parts for aerobic septic systems, from diaphragms and rebuild kits to air filters, barb fittings, and pressure sensors that connect to pressure gauges.
Weather affects aerobic septic systems, causing freezing sprinklers and overheated compressors. Use ventilated enclosures with thermal protection and monitor temperatures.
Wrap up of the course.
A downloadable Power point and the links to Texas A&M certification course for aerobic systems
I purchased a home with an Aerobic septic system 20 years ago and had no idea how to maintain it. I had to educate myself and I found there were almost no resources, publications, or video courses on it. After 20 years of keeping up with my own system I created this course to help others. This course is set up to help homeowners with Aerobic septic systems understand how they work and what they need to know to keep them working for decades. What you learn can be applied to other simpler septic systems and will teach about what happens to wastewater in general. The learner will get a understanding of the multiple tanks in a Aerobic systems, the pumps, compressors and alarms on the system. The learner will get information on selecting and replacing a compressor when that is needed. The learner will find out how to know the system is working properly and what to check when it is not. The learner will be able to check and clean sprinklers, replace the filter on the compressor and know when the system needs to be pumped out. The learner will also get a basic understanding of system costs. If the learner wants certification the links are provided for for the Texas A&M certification course.