Three Benefits of the ECOPOD for Residential Advanced Wastewater Treatment
Posted on by Travis Johnson
Oftentimes when faced with the task of designing or installing an onsite wastewater treatment system for a single-family home it’s not always as simple as a conventional septic system that includes a septic tank and drainfield. When a conventional septic system cannot be installed an advanced treatment system like the Infiltrator ECOPOD series will need to be explored.
The ECOPOD for advanced wastewater treatment offers a series of products that are simple in design, easy to install, low maintenance, and highly effective in reducing levels of nitrogen, BOD, and TSS. The ECOPOD can treat 500 to 1,500 gallons per day for residential septic systems.
How does the ECOPOD work?
The ECOPOD unit is designed to be installed within a standard septic tank like one of our IM-Series tanks. The diagram below outlines the treatment process of a ECOPOD unit installed within an IM-1060 septic tank.
A. Wastewater enters the primary tank
B. Nitrification takes place in the aerated area within the media
C. Denitrification takes place after completely mixed in the anoxic area
D. Effluent exits the system through discharge assembly to the dispersal system
Now that we’ve reviewed how the ECOPOD unit works to treat wastewater in a residential septic system let’s review the key benefits of the unit.
Certified: The ECOPOD unit holds NSF 245 certification. This means that it is certified to reduce Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), Total Suspended Solids (TSS), and up to 50% Total Nitrogen. Here are some of the average reductions that have been recognized from testing of the ECOPOD unit:
| BOD | TSS | Total Nitrogen | |
| Influent | 210 | 170 | 43 |
| Effluent | 9 | 8 | 20 |
| Reduction | 96% | 95% | 53% |
Minimal Maintenance: The ECOPOD is easy to maintain which reduces time spent on the site and allows service providers to get more accomplished in their day. There are three basic steps to maintaining the ECOPOD.
- Ensure all mechanical components remain operative
- Keep all air filters, screens, air intakes, and vents clean
- Check the sludge level in the reactor chamber and clean out as necessary
There is also no required monitoring or testing of mixed liquor because the bacteria growth occurs on the fixed media within the unit.
Flexible Tank Options: The ECOPOD can be installed in just about any standard-size septic tank available. Plus, the design of the unit incorporates the clarification chamber within the same tank as the unit which eliminates the need for an extra clarification tank.
Whether you’re faced with a small lot, unsuitable soils, or a homeowner who just wants the best wastewater treatment available, the ECOPOD can be a solution for the job. I would also encourage you to view our recent webinar presentation on the ECOPOD for more details on the benefits and how the system can be installed and maintained.
Learn more about the ECOPOD for residential wastewater treatment, view a recording of our recent webinar.
About the Author
Travis Johnson, Area Sales Representative
Travis Johnson has worked in the Onsite Wastewater industry for 12 years. He spent the first 10 years working for a large full-service septic contractor in Minnesota. During those 10 years, he acquired all the MN SSTS certifications including his advanced designer and inspector certifications. Travis specialized in tight lots and larger flow systems. He currently represents Infiltrator Water Technologies in Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota.