An Aerobic Wastewater Treatment System (AWTS) is an efficient and environmentally friendly method for treating wastewater, commonly used in rural and off-grid areas. It works by using a combination of bacteria and oxygen to break down organic waste into clean water. However, like any system, AWTS units can sometimes attract pests, including bugs and animals, which can compromise their efficiency and, in some cases, cause damage. If not addressed promptly, these pests can even affect the safety and hygiene of the treated water. In this blog post, we will explore ways to deal with bugs and animals in AWTS systems, including how to prevent infestations, fix existing issues, and keep your system in optimal working condition.
Understanding the Attractants
Before diving into the solutions, it’s important to understand why bugs and animals are attracted to AWTS systems in the first place. The core reason is that AWTS units are designed to treat organic waste, which provides food for a variety of pests. Here’s a breakdown of why different bugs and animals might find your system appealing:
Moisture: AWTS systems are often kept moist to facilitate the aerobic processes. This moisture provides an ideal breeding ground for many insects, especially those that thrive in humid conditions.
Organic Waste: The system processes wastewater, which may still contain residual organic matter that can attract pests.
Odors: Though AWTS units are designed to minimize odors, some may still escape, particularly if there are issues with the system, attracting scavengers like rodents or flies.
Given this, it’s crucial to address these attractants in order to prevent infestations and disruptions.
Identifying Common Pests
Several types of bugs and animals may infest an AWTS system. Below are the most common pests:
Insects:
Flies (e.g., Drain Flies, House Flies): These insects thrive in damp, organic environments and are frequently seen around wastewater treatment systems. They are especially prevalent around septic tank vents and effluent drains.
Mosquitoes: Mosquito larvae can grow in stagnant water areas within the system, breeding rapidly if the system has any standing water.
Ants: Certain types of ants are attracted to the organic waste present in the system. While not always harmful, they can disrupt the operation of the system if they establish nests in or around the unit.
Cockroaches: Cockroaches are opportunistic pests that can make their way into AWTS systems, especially if there are cracks or gaps in the structure.
Animals:
Rodents (Mice, Rats): Rodents are often drawn to AWTS units because they provide both food (organic matter) and water. They can chew through plumbing, wires, and insulation, leading to potential system damage.
Raccoons, Possums, and Other Small Mammals: These animals may try to enter the AWTS system or nearby vents to scavenge, nest, or drink water. They may cause damage to components like lids or vents.
Birds: Some birds, like seagulls or crows, may be attracted to the wastewater treatment system, either to drink from it or use it as a place to scavenge for food.
Prevention Measures
The best approach to dealing with pests in an AWTS system is to prevent them from entering in the first place. Implementing preventive measures will reduce the likelihood of infestations and make the system easier to maintain.
Seal Gaps and Vents:
Ensure that the AWTS unit is properly sealed, with no gaps or cracks that could allow pests to enter. Many insects and small animals can squeeze through surprisingly small openings. Check the system’s lids, vents, and any access points for potential gaps, and seal them tightly. Vent covers with mesh or fine mesh screening can be especially useful for keeping out larger pests, like rodents and birds, while allowing the necessary airflow for proper treatment.
Regular Maintenance:
Routine maintenance is essential in preventing the conditions that attract pests. This includes inspecting the system for any signs of wear or damage. Clean the tank regularly to prevent the accumulation of sludge that may attract insects, and inspect all components to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
Keep the Area Clean:
The area around your AWTS system should be kept clean and free of excess vegetation or debris. Overgrown grass or plants provide cover for pests and make it easier for them to hide. Rake leaves, remove weeds, and trim back any overhanging branches that could give animals easy access to your system.
Manage Waste Properly:
One of the major attractants for pests is organic waste. To help mitigate this, make sure the system is appropriately sized and functioning at full capacity. Overloaded systems are more likely to have wastewater sitting stagnant or improperly treated, which can lead to infestations. Additionally, ensure that waste entering the system is properly filtered before entering, as this can help reduce the likelihood of attracting pests.
Install a Mesh or Screen:
If you have a venting system in your AWTS unit, consider installing a fine mesh or screen over the openings. This prevents insects like flies and mosquitoes from entering the system while still allowing air to circulate freely. Additionally, screens can keep larger animals, such as raccoons, from accessing the treatment system.
Mitigation of Existing Pests
If bugs or animals have already infiltrated your AWTS system, the next step is to mitigate the problem before it becomes worse.Use Traps:
For rodents, small animals, or insects, traps can be an effective method of removal. For rats or mice, set up traps near entry points or in areas where you’ve seen signs of activity. For flies or mosquitoes, consider using fly traps or citronella-based solutions to keep them away. Ensure the traps are checked regularly to prevent dead pests from decomposing inside the system.
Apply Natural Repellents:
There are several natural repellents that can help deter pests from your AWTS system. For example, essential oils like eucalyptus, peppermint, or citronella can be effective at repelling insects. You can spray or place these oils near potential entry points or on the vents. Additionally, diatomaceous earth can be sprinkled around the base of the system to keep ants and other insects away.
Call a Professional Exterminator:
In cases of severe infestations or if you’re unable to control the problem on your own, it may be necessary to call in a pest control professional. They can assess the situation and apply the necessary treatments, from pesticide solutions to more extensive wildlife control measures.
Long-Term Solutions: Fixing and Preventing Future Issues
Once you’ve addressed the immediate issue, it’s time to focus on long-term prevention to ensure the system stays pest-free.Upgrade System Components:
Consider upgrading components of your AWTS system to make it more pest-resistant. This may include installing a more robust venting system, replacing damaged parts, or incorporating additional sealing around openings.
Educate Household Members or Occupants:
Make sure that everyone in the household or area understands the importance of proper system maintenance. Educating people on the proper disposal of waste and the risks of overloading the system can help reduce the chances of attracting pests in the future.
Install an Advanced Monitoring System:
Technology can help monitor your AWTS system’s health. Sensors that track water levels, treatment efficiency, and temperature can alert you to issues before they become serious problems. By catching issues early, you can avoid conditions that could attract pests.
Dealing with bugs and animals in an AWTS system can be a frustrating and time-consuming issue, but with the right prevention strategies and regular maintenance, it is entirely manageable. By addressing potential attractants, such as moisture and organic waste, and sealing access points, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of infestations. Additionally, taking swift action to mitigate any existing pest problems and implementing long-term solutions will help keep your AWTS running smoothly. By staying vigilant and proactive, you can ensure that your system continues to function as intended, providing safe, clean water without the interference of pests.
