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Facilities often focus on visible costs like labor and equipment. However, hidden costs can make the biggest difference for your organization, draining revenue if you don’t account for them. For example, manual septage receiving can cost a facility a lot due to inefficiency if it can’t process it properly. Lakeside Equipment looks into hidden costs like slow disposal and landfill fees that your facility should know, so you can make the best decision for your company on how to manage them. 

What is Manual Septage Receiving? 

Manual septage receiving in the practice of using a truck for septage to be pumped into, leading to a manual process done by a person. It begins with a hauler truck that arrives to pump the septage into it, but what makes this a manual process is that a person receives and handles the septage, not automation. Staff monitor unloading, physically remove debris, and even skim off grease by hand, making it fully manual compared to automated options. Without automation, this labor-intensive process can become a hidden cost for facilities. 

The Hidden Costs of Manual Septage Receiving You Need to Know 

There are many different hidden costs of using a manual septage receiving system. Although this is a common method in the industry, it isn’t efficient or effective for wastewater treatment plants. Here are a few hidden costs of manual septage receiving compared with automated methods. 

Slow Unloading Times 

Manual screening options take a lot of time without automation, so haulers wait longer for fewer loads, which can limit how much revenue a facility can make. These slow unloading times add inefficiency, so it’s important to consider what kind of receiving best fits your organization, since automated systems can unload a 3,000-gallon tank in just under 10 minutes. 

Frequent Maintenance 

Maintenance on machinery is always expected, but frequent maintenance can be time-consuming and inefficient. Debris can clog screens and pumps, which the team must clean manually. From a facility efficiency standpoint, this manual cleaning can take significant time and requires labor and resources. This is especially true for older systems that may need this done more frequently than newer ones, but it’s an inconvenience either way. 

Increased Labor Costs

Labor costs aren’t necessarily “hidden,” but the difference in labor costs between automated and manual systems is huge. Facilities typically plan for labor costs, but the difference between hiring staff to do manual grease skimming and grit removal and investing in an automated system can be significant. Another issue with manual systems is inconsistency, which can lead to bigger problems like faster equipment wear, odor, and disposal issues. 

Disposal and Landfill Costs 

Landfill and disposal costs are typically affected by poorly dewatered screenings. Screenings need to be properly dewatered to avoid wasting money hauling mostly water instead of septage. A proper dewatering system can bring screenings to around 40% solids, which can lead to savings over years by switching to a system built for effective dewatering. 

Compliance and Safety Concerns 

Manual processes also carry higher safety and compliance risks. Those doing the manual labor must stay on top of cleanings, efficiency, and permits, as these can all lead to issues if not considered. Automated tracking and security can help keep your process secure and safe overall. 

The Automated Alternative

If you currently use a manual septage receiving system and want a more efficient alternative, we’ve got the solution for you. Our Raptor Septage Complete Plant is an all-in-one solution that lets you do screening and grit removal in one automated unit. It offers reduced plugging, faster loading, and less manual labor. It’s perfect for above- and below-ground installs and even fits facilities with limited space. If your facility needs something else to help you reach the next level of efficiency and productivity, our Raptor Complete Plant option can help you get there.

Take the Next Step to Automation 

With the hidden costs that can come with manual septage receiving, it’s often not worth the risk for facilities to utilize this method. This is where automation helps facilities keep things moving, avoid compliance and safety issues, and reduce the excess costs that come with manual receiving. If you are a facility operator for a wastewater management facility, we recommend looking into our Raptor Septage Complete Plant option so you can set up automation and avoid the hidden costs of manual septage receiving options. Contact us today to learn more!

Many different types of wastewater treatment equipment are available on the market, which can make it difficult to choose the right one. Choosing the wrong equipment for the job can cost your plant more money than it did to buy the equipment in the first place. Plant managers often spend a lot of time deciding which equipment to choose and evaluating which manufacturers are trustworthy and credible. That’s why we’ve put together this guide on how you can evaluate water treatment manufacturers so plant managers don’t have to think too hard the next time they’re choosing equipment. Continue reading this article to get a step-by-step plan on how you can evaluate these manufacturers to choose the most ideal candidate. 

Start With What Your Plant Needs

Don’t base your decision solely on the manufacturer’s pitch; instead, base it on what your particular plant actually needs. Look into your local, state, and federal guidelines and regulations for your specific discharge and effluent requirements. You should also familiarize yourself with the fines and penalties tied to non-compliance, such as untreated overflow during heavy rain events, so you know what to expect. Define your space, retrofit, or footprint constraints at your facility, as well as capacity needs for both daily flows and peak storm conditions. This information can help you determine what equipment you need to meet the goals and needs of your unique wastewater treatment facility, so you can ensure the equipment you choose will suffice. 

Prioritize Reduced Long-Term Maintenance 

When thinking about the future of your equipment, choose options that reduce long-term maintenance as much as possible. For example, choosing a non-submerged design can drastically reduce maintenance. Submerged designs often increase corrosion, grit exposure, and mineral buildup, leading to more maintenance needs, such as repairs or part replacements. Non-submerged designs like our Lakeside SpiraGrit Vortex Grit Chamber can cut maintenance costs over the equipment’s lifespan. When evaluating equipment, ask manufacturers questions about wear parts, expected service intervals, and bearing exposure so maintenance expectations are clear for both of you. 

Look Into The History of the Manufacturer 

If you are comparing manufacturers, look into their track record and experience to better understand what they provide and how it holds up. You should know everything from how long they’ve been in business to what industry-specific experience they have, and ask for case studies or references to support their claims. Additionally, it can be beneficial to discuss what support will look like in the future, as you may need repairs, replacements, or other support from the manufacturer. 

Look Into Build and Material Quality of Equipment 

Knowing the ins and outs of what the equipment entails and what it’s made of can help you better understand how it’ll hold up over time and what that means for future repair or replacement needs. Stainless steel can be a great option for lower corrosion risk and a longer lifespan than other materials. American-made equipment versus overseas-manufactured equipment may affect lead times, parts availability, and quality control, so choosing the right manufacturer location matters. 

Understanding the Full Product Ecosystem 

You should know and understand how the entire equipment lineup will work, not just one piece of equipment. For example, many wastewater treatment equipment manufacturers, like our team here at Lakeside, offer a variety of different solutions for multiple treatment stages. A single manufacturer may offer equipment for screening, clarification, grit removal, and biological treatment. Sourcing a lineup of equipment with integrated systems from one manufacturer can ensure compatibility and seamlessness as you begin to install and implement the equipment. 

Consider Support, Service, and Availability

There are a few things that you should consider when it comes to choosing a manufacturer that’s able to provide you exactly what you need. You’ll want to look into the manufacturer’s responsiveness for potential emergency repairs or breakdowns, as well as the availability of local reps, engineers, or service teams for support. Familiarize yourself with what they offer within warranty and what they will actually cover, before you need to pay out of pocket. 

Get Multiple Quotes, But Compare Beyond Price 

Comparing quotes comes with the territory of choosing a manufacturer for your treatment plant parts, but it should not be the final decision maker. Although the cheapest option for upfront cost might seem appealing, it’s important to consider that it may cost more in downtime, replacement, and repairs over its lifetime. However, equipment made of better-quality materials can last longer without needing maintenance, but it may have a higher upfront cost. Build a comparison chart so you can review each manufacturer’s details in an organized way and decide what best fits your needs. 

Ask for References and Case Studies 

Asking for references or case studies can help you see what their equipment looks like and how it operates in person. You can talk with current plant managers who have their equipment in place to get a better idea of what to expect if you decide to choose them. Choose references with similar plant sizes and needs to compare, and site visits or demos of equipment in operation can give you a better understanding of what the equipment can do.

Choosing the Right Manufacturer for Your Treatment Plant 

Choosing a wastewater treatment plant manufacturer can be tedious and time-consuming, but knowing what to look for and consider can help you find the right match much faster. A needs assessment can help you evaluate support, quality, and pricing to determine which manufacturer best meets your wastewater treatment plant needs. If you’re in the area and want to learn about the equipment we offer at Lakeside Equipment, contact us today for a free consultation! 

Lift stations are one of the most important parts of wastewater treatment plants, but they come with some challenges. Lift arms are used to help pump water uphill when gravity is working against it (usually for flat terrain areas). One of the biggest pain points is pump clogging and downtime from rags, wipes, and debris building up. Open screw pumps will help to solve this problem with their mechanical design. Ultimately, this device is a necessary part of wastewater treatment plants, and it’s important for maintaining a reliable lift station. Let’s explore more into what this means and how exactly they improve reliability. 

What Is An Open Screw Pump?

Firstly, let’s get into what an open screw pump actually is and how it works. An open screw pump is often called an Archimedes screw pump, which has an ancient design that’s still used today as the main option in wastewater plants. It’s a foolproof design that we’ve continued to adopt, and it’s become a staple part in ensuring the proper function of these systems. It works by having a helical screw on the inside that rotates, tilts, and scoops water up as it turns around. There’s no enclosed housing or tight clearances, making it easily reachable, maneuverable, and maintainable, unlike other options. They are often used in industries that use municipal lift stations, treatment plants, and stormwater stations. It’s an essential part of these systems that need to filter out any debris or solids. Because of its foolproof design, we’ve continued to use this same mechanism for years now, making it an ancient design found in modern machinery. 

Why Conventional Lift Station Pumps Aren’t As Reliable

The conventional lift station pumps we see today are not as reliable as open screw pumps. There are multiple reasons they aren’t as reliable, and why open screw pumps might be a better option for efficiency, cost, and reliability. One issue with conventional pumps is ragging, where wipes or rags wrap around the impeller shafts and cause blockages, halting the process. Efficiency can also be an issue, as grit and sand can erode impeller surfaces over time, leading to damage and inefficiencies. For plants that have more confined spaces, there is also an issue with maintenance access, causing costly, slow, and risky maintenance. Lastly, downtime cost is a huge factor for plants that use this system. With a failed pump, the plant will be inoperable, leading to downtime that increases costs and creates compliance issues and inconveniences. 

What Makes Open Screw Pumps Reliable?

Now that we’ve gone over why conventional pumps aren’t as reliable, we’ll look into the design features of open screw pumps that make them so reliable. Here are a few main features that really support reliability and make this a much more efficient system:

Open Geometry: Because this doesn’t have enclosed housing, and the rags and solids move along the screw instead of trying to fit through a smaller gap, it means more flow and fewer clogs. This is by far one of the biggest reliability advantages of choosing an open screw pump. 

Low Speed: These pumps operate at a low rotational speed, which is under 100 RPM. This results in much less wear and tear, leading to less maintenance and less stress on it. 

No Impeller: This system does not have an impeller, which means that there are no tight clearances or possibilities of getting bound up. 

Self-Regulated Flow: The flow through the open screw pumps is much more naturally regulated, without the need for difficult controls, leading to more efficiency and just an easier process overall. 

What To Consider Before Implementing Open Screw Pumps 

When implementing this system in your wastewater treatment plant, there are a few things to consider. These pumps are a great addition and can support efficiency throughout your plant, but there may be changes that need to be addressed before properly implementing open screw pumps in your process. 

• These pumps often need an open, more inclined installation, meaning an open floor plan would be needed. It’s not an ideal option for urban sites or plants that have tighter spaces. 
• They are best suited for new construction, rather than trying to fit them into existing construction where the sizing and infrastructure style might not accommodate them. 
• It can be more costly upfront, but there is a lower lifecycle cost mostly due to the reduced maintenance and downtime. 
• It’s not always the right fit for some systems, as smaller lift stations or small spaces may not fit this system properly, leaving conventional pumps to be the better option. 

Supporting Reliability With Open Screw Pumps

Open screw pumps are an efficient and effective system to implement into many wastewater treatment plants. It is a system that’s been around for decades and continues to have many pros, but it might not be best for all treatment plants. Some wastewater treatment plants would be better off with conventional pumps, so before making the switch, be sure to go over all of the details regarding implementation into your specific treatment plant. That said, there are still many benefits to having an open screw pump instead, including reduced maintenance, smoother operation, and lower lifetime costs.  With the open concept and self-regulated flow, this can be a great option for plants that are looking to boost efficiency and have supporting infrastructure for open screw pumps. If you are interested in implementing open screw pumps into your wastewater plant, be sure to talk to a professional about what might work for your plant and what recommendations they can give for making the switch. 

Wastewater treatment plants require a lot in operations, as it’s much more than just treating water. There are many different components to the plant, and it takes ongoing investment in new equipment, resources, labor, energy, and maintaining compliance. Overall, construction costs are typically one of the most stressed parts of operating a wastewater treatment plant, but the long-term operating expenses are a significant part of the budget and resources needed. If you are a city or industrial facility looking to understand the process and expenses of running a wastewater treatment plant, it’s important to remember the ongoing and long-term costs that are associated with it. Let’s dive more into the details of the cost behind running a wastewater treatment plant to better prepare for the expenses and process that comes with it. 

Understanding Operating Costs for Wastewater Treatment Plants 

Many times, operators consider only the initial costs associated with building or expanding a plant, but there are also additional upkeep and long-term operational costs that should be considered. Operating expenses are necessary in order to keep the wastewater plant up and running, but this cost can vary greatly based on the plant size, operational needs, location, and local regulations. Managing these costs effectively is key to long-term sustainability, making it critical to consider them long before you start the project of running or building your wastewater treatment plant. 

Daily Operational Expenses 

The daily expenses associated with operations can include everything from costs supporting the treatment process, equipment performance, and ensuring regulatory compliance. Additionally, this can go directly to specific components of the plant like power pumps, aeration systems, control equipment, and other treatment processes. Labor and operator expenses are also something to consider, as the plant will need sufficient staffing in order to maintain operations. All of these expenses are typically regular, but the cost amount can vary, with some being stable and others fluctuating depending on the operations of the plant. 

Fixed vs Variable Costs

Wastewater treatment plants usually have a variety of different costs that can be fixed or variable based on the operations. Forecasting expenses and budget starts with understanding the different costs you’ll have to take on, as well as which ones are fixed and which ones will change. When we look at fixed costs, these typically remain the same, or at least quite similar month to month. These costs can be: 

• Salaries 
• Facility permits or fees
• Property taxes
• Equipment depreciation
• Insurance
• Routine software subscriptions and monitoring systems
• Long-term contracts

Additionally, there are many different costs that change based on the operations happening within the wastewater treatment facility. Seasonal demand, plant flow, weather events, and treatment requirements can all make these costs fluctuate. Here are a few examples of fluctuating costs that you might have: 

• Electricity consumption 
• Fuel costs
• Overtime labor
• Sludge hauling
• Chemical usage
• Emergency repairs and maintenance 
• Replacement parts

Why Is Energy Consumption a Large Expense for Wastewater Plants? 

Wastewater treatment plants rely heavily on electricity to power the entire facility and all of the working components. Aeration systems, pumps, blowers, and other mechanical processes account for quite a large percentage of the plant’s energy usage. As an operational manager of a wastewater treatment plant, maintaining energy efficiency can help reduce operating costs over time, significantly lowering the overall cost associated with this. Energy cost is one of the main areas where these plants can cut costs with energy-efficient upgrades and improvements. 

Preparing For Maintenance and Repairs

With any facility comes the need for maintenance and the occasional repair. These expenses are often random and can vary in cost based on what is needed, but repairs and maintenance are extremely necessary to extend equipment life. Additionally, infrastructure that may be older, in wastewater plants that have been around for years, can require more maintenance and servicing, which should be considered. Some common maintenance costs include pump servicing, replacement parts, mechanical equipment inspections, calibration, and blower maintenance. Preparing for regular maintenance and unexpected repairs can keep your budget tight and allow room for these costly needs.

Regulatory Compliance and Testing

With wastewater treatment plants, there are a lot of different compliance and regulations that must be upheld. These tests and compliance needs can be costly, including reporting, testing, inspections, and requirements like water testing, lab analysis, renewals, and inspections. Not meeting regulatory standards can result in penalties or fines, additional testing needs, and even system improvements depending on what is found. It’s important to prepare for this compliance and testing to ensure you maintain a budget for it and avoid fees, fines, and other problems if your plant is found noncompliant. 

How To Reduce Wastewater Treatment Plant Operating Costs

Although the costs of maintaining a wastewater treatment plant can vary and are necessary, there are many ways that facilities can lower these operating expenses without sacrificing treatment performance. One of the biggest things you can do to achieve this is investing in efficient equipment and proactive maintenance that can keep your facility performing at its best. 

Here are some of the cost-saving strategies that you can implement:

• Upgrade to energy-efficient equipment 
• Optimize chemical usage
• Improve aeration efficiency 
• Preventative maintenance 
• Optimize chemical usage
• Conduct equipment evaluations

These are just a few ways that operational costs can be reduced within a wastewater treatment facility. The main thing to remember when it comes to cost-saving strategies for these facilities is the need to be as efficient as possible with operations, and upgrading equipment can make a huge difference. 

Preparing For The Cost of a Wastewater Treatment Plant 

The cost associated with running a wastewater treatment plant should be considered by municipalities and operational managers that are looking to build or expand their plants. It’s no secret that these plants can be costly because of the amount of work they do and the amount of energy they use, but there are ways to prepare for these costs and even cut them. The biggest thing to remember is to prepare by understanding the costs associated with a wastewater treatment plant, as well as the different ways those costs can be cut. Overall, the best way to prepare to run or build a wastewater treatment facility is to educate yourself on the costs and budget, and invest in efficient equipment from the beginning. 

There is increasing investment in the United States’ water and wastewater infrastructure, funded mainly by federal sources. The Build America, Buy America Act includes regulations on wastewater equipment and projects funded by federal grants. These requirements are changing how wastewater equipment procurement is done as a whole. Municipalities, engineers, contractors, and utilities that are looking to purchase wastewater equipment are all affected by changing requirements within the BABA Act. We’re going to explore more about what the Build America, Buy America Act is, what it affects, and tips for staying compliant with your own wastewater treatment projects. 

What Is The Build America, Buy America Act? 

This Act, enacted in November 2021, states that federally funded infrastructure must use construction materials made in the United States. The reason behind this rule is to support U.S. manufacturers for projects being built here, rather than pouring money into imported materials or equipment. The BABA says that iron and steel products must be produced in the U.S., and manufactured products must meet a domestic-content threshold. It applies to every infrastructure project in the United States, including wastewater treatment. 

Which Wastewater Projects Are Affected By The BABA Act?

To answer this question plainly, U.S.-funded wastewater projects are affected. When we look into the details of this, owners must look into the requirements before a project is officially started. Various types of projects can be affected if they are federally funded, such as: 

• Water reuse projects
• Upgrades for wastewater treatment plants
• Pumping facilities and lift stations
• Sewer collection systems 
• Biosolidshandling

These are just a few of the different types of projects affected by this Act, and verifying the material’s origin is critical for projects that will continue with funding. 

How Will It Affect Equipment Procurement? 

Procuring equipment for wastewater treatment facilities can affect everything from the evaluation process to product selection. Understanding how it may affect your system and processes can help you remain compliant with the BABA Act. 

Longer Evaluation Process: The evaluation process will be longer, as teams will have to verify domestic manufacturing before they’re able to go through with purchase orders. Additionally, extra documentation will be needed to accommodate the proof of manufacturing origin. 

Supplier Qualification: Many organizations will have to ensure that domestic sourcing requirements are met and that certifications and manufacturing records are considered in all procurement decisions. 

Lead Times: Due to domestic sourcing requirements, supplier options may be limited, making early planning necessary. 

Product Selection: The available options may change as engineers may alternate equipment that remains compliant. 

Documentation Is Starting To Become More Important Than Ever

When we look at how Buy America, Build America affects equipment and wastewater projects, one thing to remember is that there is a lot of documentation involved. In procurement, documentation is now a critical factor that can’t be left undone. Incomplete documentation can delay entire projects due to a lack of approval. Here’s a look into what kind of documentation is needed when building infrastructure that’s under the BABA Act: 

• Compliance certificates
• Manufacturer certifications
• Product traceability 
• Material origin documenta
• Procurement records

Challenges Being Faced By Contractors and Utilities

With anything, challenges can arise, especially when trying to stay compliant and keep up with changes. Knowing some of the more common challenges can help you stay prepared and avoid them altogether. Stay aware of these challenges so you can better plan and prepare with them in mind: 

• Staying on top of and understanding federal guidance on these projects 
• Finding compliant manufacturers that can be used on BABA projects
• Managing procurement schedules to stay on track 
• Balancing the cost and compliance of materials 
• Coordination between all the different roles, including contractors, engineers, manufacturers, and agencies that are funding 

Best Practices For a Successful Wastewater Equipment Procurement Under BABA

If you are planning to work on wastewater infrastructure of some sort soon, or maybe you’ve already started, it’s crucial to understand the best ways to run a successful procurement process. These tips and best practices can help you in the decision-making process when planning your procurement: 

• Confirm any funding requirements early on in the project 
• Build in extra time to your projects for procurement, changes, and overall delays 
• Stay present and active with manufacturers during the design process
• Request compliance documentation before putting any money into it
• Work with suppliers who are experienced in projects under the BABA Act 
• Stay organized with records on procurement throughout the process

The Future of BABA’s Impact On The Wastewater Industry 

The Build America, Buy America Act will affect the entire wastewater industry in various ways, especially as the industry continues to expand. We can expect additions and changes in the near future, especially regarding wastewater equipment and treatment. 

Emphasis on Manufacturing Rules: We will see increased emphasis on manufacturing rules to ensure all projects remain compliant and are aware of the requirements. 

Greater Collaboration: We can expect to see more collaboration between the manufacturers and the utilities. 

Standardize Compliance: More standardized compliance processes may be put in place to keep all projects in line and on the same page. 

Expansion of Requirements: As we move forward, we may see expanded or refined domestic content requirements as a result. 

Starting Your BABA Wastewater Project Today

Wastewater projects under the Build America, Buy America Act will continue to surface as these projects become more popular and are shaped by this Act. The procurement process is one of the most important processes in these types of projects, making compliance here much more necessary. To stay compliant and be successful, you must start planning your projects early to find compliant suppliers, stay on top of documentation, and have a clear understanding of the requirements. Review the Act before starting any wastewater procurement for these projects to stay compliant and fully understand what’s needed before any project movement can proceed. 

Wastewater treatment plants are facing pressure from both sides regarding chemical use and tightening discharge limits. When we look at chemical reduction as a goal in this industry, it’s mainly about finding alternatives, monitoring chemical usage, and precision dosing. Cutting corners on treatment quality is not an option, which makes it crucial to strike a balance between compliance issues and costly mistakes. Although the environmental factor is important, it’s not the main reason facilities should reduce chemical use. Regulatory and compliance rules are popping up, and facilities are scrambling to find new ways to avoid using chemicals like chlorine, coagulants, and polymers. Let’s dive into some of the modern ways that you can reduce chemical usage in your wastewater treatment facilities. 

What Causes Chemical Overuse in Wastewater Treatment? 

The main reason to find alternatives to these chemicals is the potential for overuse in wastewater, which can cause machinery issues and health concerns. One of the main reasons chemical overuse occurs is that facilities use a chemical dose for peak or worst-case scenarios, but continue to run that same dosing rate on a regular cadence. 

On the other hand, this may also happen due to choking loads of flow or pollutants from storm surges, which can disrupt the current treatment of wastewater. These surges often can lead to operators having to over-dose on chemicals to get it back to normal. These two reasons are the main causes of chemical overuse in wastewater treatment plants, but other factors can lead to it as well. 

How To Reduce Chemical Usage in Wastewater Treatment 

There are many ways you can reduce chemical use in wastewater treatment, and these methods can help alleviate regulatory pressure on operators to maintain compliance and avoid potential issues. These methods should be chosen based on your plant’s specific needs and the water flow it maintains daily. These methods can be used on their own or in conjunction with others to create an efficient system that uses the fewest chemicals. 

Precise Dosing and Real-Time Monitoring 

Precise dosing refers to shifting from a fixed dosing rate to a more flexible one, with advanced systems integrating real-time feedback for adjustment. This keeps the dosing at optimal limits throughout the cycle, avoiding overdosing. Typically, this is done using sensors that measure pH, turbidity, ORP, and other parameters to determine the optimal dosing. Additionally, equalization tanks can prevent shock loads from adversely affecting the treatment process, which can reduce chemical costs and usage associated with storm surges. Real-time monitoring is the main reason this would be possible, as it could monitor the water consistently and make adjustments as needed. 

Non-Chemical Alternatives 

There are alternatives to the chemicals we currently use in wastewater treatment facilities. For example, US disinfection is one of the main alternatives, in which a special light is used to kill bacteria and germs in the water. The light can damage bacterial and viral DNA in the water and reduce disinfection byproducts by reducing the use of chemicals. UV systems often operate continuously and can handle changes in water flow without fail. Ozone or advanced oxidation can be a great option for harder-to-treat contaminants that may also be present in the wastewater. 

Biological and Membrane-Based Alternatives 

Adding in additional components or opting for components that can handle wastewater treatment without chemicals is another option. For example, moving-bed biofilm reactors maintain higher biomass concentrations, which can sustain treatment performance while using much less space and reducing reliance on chemical oxidants. Bioaugmentation is another option that uses pollutant-degrading microbes instead of chemical treatment. This is usually done initially, killing as many bacteria as possible, then going in with chemical treatment. Doing it this way can eliminate the need for chemical treatment by 25%. 

The last option here would be membrane bioreactors, which combine biological treatment and membrane filtration to reduce the reliance on chemical filtration. All of these methods can be used to eliminate full reliance on chemicals, but implementing them in your plant would depend on your particular needs and the type of wastewater. 

Process and Operational Changes That Can Help

Sometimes, just optimizing your processes can cut down on your excess chemical usage and give you a more efficient treatment without the reliance on chemicals. Optimizing your pH control is a simple task that can help reduce the coagulant usage. Jar testing to recalibrate dosing can also be essential, especially in changing seasons; dosing may also change. Sludge conditioning and dewatering optimization are also methods that can support maximum efficiency and dosing optimization. Overall, chemical reduction is somewhat easy, as there are multiple ways to achieve it, making it a “low-hanging fruit” for plants aiming to reduce chemical reliance. 

Reducing Chemical Usage in Wastewater Treatment Facilities

Reducing chemical use in wastewater treatment can be done in a variety of ways. From alternative options to real-time monitoring and optimization of operations and processes, some options can be feasible for a plant of any size. Realistically, if you’re on a mission to become less reliant on chemicals in wastewater treatment, there are many different options to choose from, making it a somewhat easy switch. Understanding the different options you have for achieving this can help you decide which is best for your plant’s needs, size, and water flow. 

Many wastewater treatment facilities have been around for years, making the infrastructure older and less stable than it once was. The growing population is taking a heavier toll on these older infrastructures than we once imagined, due to increased wastewater demand that these systems can’t handle. Much of the wastewater infrastructure around today is at the end of its lifespan, which means it needs to be replaced with newly built wastewater treatment plants. Continuing to put pressure on the current infrastructure can lead to a variety of issues, such as backups and overflows. Let’s explore how population growth is putting pressure on aging wastewater infrastructure and what that could mean for its future. 

What You Need to Know About Wastewater Infrastructure 

Wastewater infrastructure includes many components, such as sewer lines, lift stations, pump stations, stormwater systems, and wastewater treatment plants. These systems in the United States were built mainly between 40 and 100 years ago, and many cities are relying on very outdated wastewater systems. The older infrastructure is an issue not only because of deteriorating materials, but also because the original materials were not as strong. In contrast, today such infrastructure would be built with sturdier materials. Additionally, many of these systems were designed for smaller populations and haven’t been upgraded to accommodate population growth. All of these issues can cause breakdowns, require maintenance, and even necessitate an overall plan to build new infrastructure, especially when we consider how population growth increases system demand in wastewater treatment plants. 

How Population Growth Affects Wastewater Treatment Infrastructure 

Population growth is one of the leading, rapidly growing issues affecting wastewater treatment plants. New housing developments and expanding industrial activity create greater demand on the water department, leading to additional strain. Population density is also an issue in cities with large populations in small areas, which puts strain on local water systems. More people lead to more water use, which leads to more wastewater production and greater demand on treatment facilities and aging infrastructure. 

• Increased wastewater flow from homes 
• Higher strain on sewer lines 
• Greater risk of sewer backups and overflows 
• Increased demand for treatment plant expansion 
• Higher operating costs
• More wear and tear on the aging pipes

The Risks of an Overloaded Wastewater System 

Wastewater systems play an important role in our water management. If it is experiencing overload, this can lead to various problems that impact the surrounding community.

Sewer Backups and Overflows 

Backups and overflows happen mainly when systems exceed capacity and wastewater has nowhere to go, causing it to back up into homes, streets, and businesses. These sewer backups and overflows can lead to basement flooding, property damage, and public health concerns for those exposed in the area. 

Environmental Issues 

An overloaded wastewater system can lead to environmental consequences when untreated sewage enters rivers, lakes, and coastal waters. It can cause harm to the aquatic ecosystem and lead to contamination of drinking water. Beaches would close, and recreational water usage would be halted or limited. 

Increased Failures

If the wastewater treatment system is overloaded, it can lead to increased failures. For example, collapsed pipes, corrosion, equipment failures, and frequent repairs can result from this. 

The Impact of Climate Change and Extreme Weather 

Climate change and extreme weather events are affecting infrastructure and wastewater systems due to heavy rainfall, drought, and shifts in water usage patterns. When areas receive heavy rainfall, it can overwhelm sewer systems, especially older ones that still use outdated techniques. This could lead to flooded treatment plants, increased I&I, and overflow events during extreme weather. Drought and water usage patterns can affect wastewater flow, as drought restrictions and population shifts require adjustments. These weather events will continue to impact wastewater treatment facilities, making it important to update these systems quickly.

How Are Cities Responding? 

Cities are looking for ways to address the overload at wastewater treatment facilities and are beginning to update their systems. Here are a few of the top ways cities are responding to the potential wastewater-treatment overload in their areas. 

Expansion Projects

The most significant way cities are preparing is by planning expansion projects. Wastewater treatment facilities must be much larger and more up-to-date than the infrastructure built 40 to 100 years ago. The goal is to replace aging sewer lines, expand treatment plant capacity, separate the stormwater and sewage systems, and modernize pump stations for efficiency. 

Smart Technology 

As with anything else nowadays, there are ways cities can incorporate technology into wastewater treatment plants to improve efficiency and stay on top of potential issues. Smart technology can include sensors that detect leaks, predictive maintenance systems, and real-time monitoring systems. 

Challenges The Cities May Face

• Projects are quite expensive, making it difficult to get things rolling because of the high project costs and the intense planning that must go into it 
• Construction disruptions are also an issue that can put the project behind schedule 
• There are shortages in funding that can make it difficult to pay for the project 
• There could be a challenge with keeping up with rapid development and population growth in the area 

Population Growth Is a Hidden Weakness for Wastewater Infrastructure 

Population growth is inevitable, making it crucial to plan for wastewater treatment plant expansion to keep up. Failing to upgrade the infrastructure of these aging plants can lead to a range of issues that affect the entire surrounding city. Wastewater treatment plants are an important part of our water cycle, and many of them operate with outdated systems, crumbling infrastructure, and limited capacity. Cities are looking to plan for expansions, but funding can cause issues and delays in getting things started. Getting familiar with our wastewater plants can help you understand how important they are and how crucial it is for cities to secure funding for expansion projects before breakdowns and shutdowns occur in the facilities. In the future, we can expect more expansion projects, hopefully more funding, and a better-supported industry for wastewater treatment. 

A clarifier, when related to wastewater treatment facilities, is an important part of the process, making it essential to keep up with maintenance to ensure a long lifespan. This component is used to separate solids from liquids, allowing clean water to proceed to the next stage of treatment. If there are issues with the clarifier, this will result in poor effluent quality, system overload, and possible repairs. Clarifiers can last 10 or 30 years; it depends on the maintenance done, which is why it’s crucial to understand how to extend your clarifier’s lifespan. 

How a Clarifier Works

To properly maintain your clarifier and keep it running smoothly, you must first understand how it works. There are two main types of clarifiers: Primary clarifiers and secondary clarifiers. Primary removes the heavier, larger solids early on, while secondary handles the biological solids after aeration. It works hand in hand with other components of the system, like the center drive unit, effluent weirs, and the sludge hopper. Overall, it’s an important part of the process, and it’s something that shouldn’t be skimped on when it comes to maintenance and upkeep. 

What Can Cause Damage to a Clarifier?

Clarifiers are often used in wastewater treatment, making them susceptible to damage and additional wear and tear. Knowing the causes of damage can help you to avoid them, as most are avoidable if they’re caught early. Here are some of the common causes of clarifier damage: 

Buildup of Sludge: One of the most common reasons that a clarifier may become damaged is because of sludge buildup. If the sludge is left behind, it can thicken and overload motors, leading to damage and even more buildup. 

Corrosion: Because these components are submerged in water and exposed to chemicals and hydrogen sulfide, corrosion is more likely to occur. 

Mechanical Wear: Normal wear and tear from use is expected. Bearings, ears, and drive units can be affected here. 

Hydraulic Imbalance: Uneven flow into the clarifier can cause short-circuiting and disrupt settling, causing issues within the clarifier. 

How You Can Extend Clarifier Lifespan

Now that we understand some of the common issues and causes of clarifier damage, we are going to give you our expert tips on how you can extend the lifespan of your clarifier. If you have a wastewater treatment facility, consider these tips, and putting them into practice can help extend its lifespan and keep maintenance up to date. 

Regular Checkups

The main thing that can help keep up with your clarifier maintenance is doing regular maintenance checks. These should be done daily and weekly to monitor for potential issues and assess how the clarifier’s components are performing, helping catch any problems early. 

• Listen for unusual sounds 
• Observe effluent clarity 
• Monitor the sludge blanket 
• Look at components like rake arms 
• Watch for floating solids or scum 

Monthly Maintenance 

Monthly maintenance should become a priority for wastewater treatment facilities to prevent mechanical failure. This goes more in-depth than a daily or weekly check, and a professional often does it. This maintenance keeps your clarifier working properly, protects its components, and ensures essential maintenance is up to date. 

• Look at the drive system torque and load 
• Look for rust, corrosion, and coating damage
• Look for clogging or uneven flow 
• Lubricate bearings, gears, and moving joints 
• Check rake arm alignment 

Quarterly and Annual Maintenance 

Maintenance you should do quarterly or annually is the deeper, more technical kind. It goes much more in-depth and will determine whether your equipment will last or need to be replaced early on. 

• Inspect internal components like shafts and gears 
• Remove hardened sludge and grit 
• Calibrate the sensors 
• Recoat or repaint the corroded surfaces 
• Check the integrity of the tank and the rotating bridge 

How to Monitor Your Clarifier 

Staying on top of regular maintenance will help you keep an eye on all the internal components, but monitoring KPIs can help you notice if something is off. Wastewater treatment facilities often have a variety of indicators you can review to determine whether there are any issues, without necessarily having to visit in person. 

Total Suspended Solids: This will track the amount of suspended solids; a high value indicates poor settling. 

Turbidity: If you are seeing cloudy effluent signals, this indicates inefficiency and may signal a problem. 

Torque Readings: Rising torque can indicate mechanical strain and may signal other issues. 

Sludge Depth: This will show the amount of sludge; if it’s too high, it can signal an overload risk. 

Flow Consistency: Sudden changes in flow can indicate hydraulic issues. 

Keeping Clarifiers Maintained for Longevity and Efficiency 

Clarifiers play an important role in the wastewater treatment process, making it crucial to maintain them. Without clarifiers or with inefficient ones, efficiency may drop, delaying the water treatment process. Doing regular self-checks, inspections, maintenance checks, and preventative maintenance can help extend the lifespan of your component. Clarifiers can last from 10 to 30 years, but how long yours lasts depends solely on the maintenance and care you provide. If you are running a wastewater treatment facility and looking to maintain clarifier performance and longevity, maintenance is key. Train team members and develop a plan to ensure maintenance and quality checks on your components are not left on the back burner. If you need a professional opinion, inspection, or guidance, we’ve got you covered at Lakeside Equipment! 

Aging wastewater infrastructure has been a concern in the United States for decades, but there hasn’t been much funding to combat this until recently. In recent years, concern has grown, leading to increased federal funding to help repair and modernize these wastewater treatment plants. Overall, wastewater treatment is crucial, so ensuring these facilities remain efficient and up to date will help extend their lifespans. Modernization is important for population growth, environmental regulations, and climate regulations. This 2026 infrastructure funding is driving major upgrades to our wastewater treatment facilities and systems. Let’s take a look at how this is expected to change in 2026 and what the future of wastewater treatment facilities could look like as a result. 

What the Current Wastewater Infrastructure Looks Like

To understand what differences are to come with the federal funding, we have to look at what wastewater infrastructure currently looks like. When we look at the current infrastructure, the biggest consideration is that many of these wastewater treatment facilities are decades old. Because of this, it’s vital to have an upgraded system to prevent issues such as leaks, overflows, and inefficiencies that can arise after years of use. The growing population is also a major factor in considering how these facilities can keep up. Increasing demand from this population growth calls for upgraded systems that can handle the increased workload. Locally, many areas are struggling to keep their wastewater facilities up to date and operating efficiently due to financial constraints, which will be addressed through federal funding opportunities. 

What the Federal Infrastructure Funding for 2026 Will Look Like

Major infrastructure legislation passed in the last few years has paved the way for the funding we will receive this year. In the last few years, the federal government has begun paying close attention to and prioritizing water infrastructure, and has declared it a national issue. When we think about funding initiatives behind it, there are two main ones: bipartisan infrastructure efforts and environmental protection programs. Federal agencies are partnering with state and local governments to fund these areas and coordinate large-scale investments, rather than relying on isolated funding. The funds are being split between different areas such as wastewater systems, drinking water improvements, and stormwater management. The key goal here is to invest in a long-term fix to transform our current wastewater system, rather than in short-term fixes that won’t last.

What is Being Modernized Inside Wastewater Treatment Facilities? 

Modernizing these facilities is the main goal of this funding, as many of them use outdated systems that have been around for decades, causing problems over the years. Modernizing these facilities will allow them to work more efficiently and avoid costly maintenance in the future. Here is a look at what will be modernized in these facilities: 

Aging Equipment: Many of these facilities have been around for decades and use the same equipment. Upgrading equipment will make a world of difference in avoiding maintenance and breakdowns and maximizing efficiency. 

Automation: Automation is becoming part of almost every system we have due to advances in technology. Automation will help to alleviate the need for manual labor in many areas while streamlining processes. 

Capacity Expansion: With the increase in population,n there is an increase in demand for water. This places excessive stress on our current wastewater systems, which is why expanding the capacity of these facilities to handle demand is crucial. 

Energy-Efficiency: With energy use and sustainability a top priority across many industries, wastewater facilities are seeking to improve energy efficiency. With these upgrades, the wastewater industry can be much more energy-efficient. 

Improved Technologies: Filtration and treatment technologies will become much more efficient and capable of meeting greater demand. 

Benefits of Modernized Wastewater Systems 

There are many benefits to modernizing our current wastewater systems. These benefits span many areas, including environmental, public health, community, and economic health. Let’s look at them broken down by category: 

Environmental Benefits: 

• Compliance with regulations 
• Improved water quality 
• Reduces pollution 
• Better handling of stormwater and runoff 

Public Health/Community Benefits: 

• Reduced contaminant exposure 
• Improved sanitation 
• Cleaner drinking water
• Prevents sewage overflow 

Economic Benefits: 

• Creates more job opportunities 
• Support local businesses 
• Increases property values 

Potential Challenges with Modernizing Facilities

As with most things, challenges can arise when we consider what modernizing these wastewater treatment facilities might entail. For example, there could be funding gaps even with federal support, which can delay changes or cause financial strain. The rise in construction and material costs must also be considered, as it will heavily affect the overall cost of the project and determine how much funding is needed. Additionally, there could be setbacks in coordination among federal, state, and local agencies. These challenges will not delay the modernization of these facilities, but it’s important to recognize them in planning. 

What Does This Mean for Wastewater Facility Infrastructure? 

When we think about the changes we can expect this year, it’s important to understand their effects on our facilities as a whole. We can first expect to see more federal funding for this area, especially as maintenance needs and upgrades may continue to be needed in the coming years. We will also see a shift in sustainable infrastructure as changes are made and new infrastructure is installed. Innovation will be a driver of future water management, especially for upgrades and improvements down the road. Wastewater treatment facilities will require ongoing maintenance, funding, and continued investment to keep them running efficiently. 

The Future of Wastewater Treatment Facilities in 2026 

The modernization of wastewater treatment facilities is crucial to the industry’s development and to keeping it efficient. Supporting these changes will also support environmental protection, economic growth, and public health with the upgrades we can expect to see. Current systems are not built to last; don’t meet the required demand, and are inefficient in their processes, which is why modernization is vital. To support a sustainable and resilient future, we must support the modernization of wastewater treatment facilities with federal funding.