Organic debris falling into wastewater is a common problem that we see all the time, but with autumn rolling around, this debris is going to increase. As the weather cools down, the leaves fall from trees, and we can often find more twigs, leaves, and other organic material in wastewater, which can mean that keeping wastewater clean can be a little more difficult. We’re going to take a look at why autumn brings more organic debris and how your wastewater facility can prepare and combat this common issue this season. 

Why Does Autumn Bring More Organic Debris?

Organic debris is classified as anything that comes naturally that can fall or make its way into the wastewater system. In Autumn, the temperatures cool and leaves begin to fall off the trees, which can bring an increase in fallen leaves into wastewater. On top of this, there is an increase in weather related activity, such as storms, heavy winds, and rain, which can bring in even more debris from trees, like limbs and twigs. 

Wastewater Treatment Facility Challenges During Autumn

There are specific wastewater treatment facility challenges that arise in the autumn season, but knowing these challenges can help you better prepare for rhythm and ultimately manage them more easily when the autumn season comes in full swing. So let’s look at some of the challenges associated with wastewater treatment facilities that are often seen in this season. 

Higher Risk of Clogging: One thing that you may experience more of is the increased risk of clogging when it comes to pumps, screens, and other equipment. This is due to the increased amount of debris that is falling into the wastewater, and therefore will result in an increase in clogging. 

Increased Strain on Equipment: Because there is an increase in the amount of debris, there is also an increase in the strain on the equipment used to remove this debris. For example, grit removal and screening systems will work a lot harder as they help to remove this debris, which can increase the strain on the equipment. 

Greater Potential for Upkeep Problems: Odors, blockages, and operational slowdowns can be expected as there is an increase in these problems with the increase in debris. Because your equipment is working extra hard, these problems can arise and should be addressed quickly in order to get things back in working order. 

How to Manage Increased Debris in the Autumn Season

Now that we understand a few of the common challenges associated with wastewater treatment facilities and the autumn season, let’s look more into how you can manage the increased debris. Having a plan in place can keep you from experiencing downtime and allow you to get back to full efficiency. 

Pump Station Protection 

Pumps can take on a heavy hit when it comes to debris because of the role that they play in the clearing of it. You can protect your pump station by keeping leaves, rags, and other materials out to avoid damage to these pumps. Use proper screening to ensure that downtime is minimal and issues with the pump station are not causing downtime and low efficiency for the wastewater treatment. 

Enhanced Screening and Grit Removal 

Screening and grit removal are both important parts of wastewater treatment, and it’s important to keep up with these areas, especially in the autumn season. You should have regular inspection and maintenance scheduled to ensure that you are looking out for any problems and can get them addressed promptly. Running into issues with your screening or grit removal processes can lead to downtime and inefficiency in wastewater treatment, causing other issues that could have been avoided with proper maintenance. 

Preventative Maintenance 

It’s important not to wait until there is an issue to get maintenance, but instead to use preventative maintenance to keep up with potential issues and have them fixed before they cause future problems. Preventative maintenance can include getting an inspection done before autumn rolls around to ensure your equipment is working properly, as well as adjusting cleaning schedules to accommodate the increase in debris. 

Educate the Community

Let the community know what issues may arise with the increase in autumn debris in wastewater. You can encourage them to keep leaves and yard waste out of storm drains and educate them on proper disposal methods as well. This can help keep the community involved while having all hands on deck when it comes to wastewater management. 

Lakeside Equipment’s Advanced Equipment Solutions 

When it comes to getting a handle on these potential issues, it’s important to look into solutions that will help you in the long run. At Lakeside Equipment, we have multiple equipment solutions that can help you prepare for the increase in debris in wastewater in Autumn and keep your wastewater management systems running smoothly. We offer grit removal, screening, and solids handling equipment that’s advanced and can keep up with the increase in debris that may affect wastewater treatment and management. Low-maintenance systems are a great way to keep up with the increased production and workflow needed during high debris times like the autumn season, so investing in this type of equipment now is a great way to get that started. You can see benefits such as decreased downtime, less maintenance, improved efficiency, and even environmental benefits when you invest in proactive and advanced equipment for wastewater management. 

Getting Prepared for the Autumn Season 

Waste management treatment facilities can see a huge increase in the work needed during the autumn season. With challenges with overworked systems and equipment due to the increased debris, it’s important to get ahead of the season and begin investing in proactive solutions now. Remember, inspect your systems before autumn is in full swing so that you can ensure your equipment is working efficiently. Consider upgrading to advanced equipment in order to keep up with the increase in workload and to avoid any potential issues with your current equipment. Review your equipment readiness, and if you are in the market to upgrade to advanced equipment, contact us at Lakeside Equipment, and we can install our top of the line options before the autumn season hits, to keep your facility running smoothly