Questions & Answers
Frequently Asked Questions
What water should be purified?
The water that needs to be purified depends on its origin and intended use. Here are some common types of water that typically require purification: Tap water: In many parts of the world, tap water is treated to make it drinkable. However, there may be one-time contaminations or water quality issues that require additional purification, including home filtration and disinfection. Well water: If you have a private well, the water drawn from it may contain bacteria, viruses, dissolved minerals or other contaminants that require purification. A water treatment system may be necessary to make this water drinkable. Rainwater: Rainwater is usually pure when collected, but it can become contaminated during storage or use. Purification may be necessary to make it suitable for human consumption or other uses, particularly if stored in leaky tanks or used for cooking and drinking. Surface Water: Surface water sources such as rivers, lakes and ponds can contain various pollutants from human activities and local flora and fauna. Surface water often needs to be treated before consumption. Travel or Camping Water: When traveling or camping, water you find in nature may need purification to prevent waterborne illness. Purification tablets, portable filters and UV sterilization systems are commonly used for this type of water. Sea or brackish water: Sea water and brackish water must be desalinated to make them potable or suitable for other uses. This can be achieved by techniques such as reverse osmosis or distillation. Water for industrial or agricultural uses: In certain industrial or agricultural applications, the water used must be purified to meet quality standards specific to industry or agriculture. It is essential to know the source and quality of the water you use and take appropriate purification measures if necessary to ensure its safety and quality for its intended use. Water purification methods include filtration, chemical disinfection, UV sterilization, distillation, reverse osmosis, among others. The specific methods depend on the contaminants present and the water quality standards applicable to your region or use.
What products cannot be flushed down the toilet?
It is essential not to flush certain products down the toilet, as this can lead to plumbing and wastewater treatment problems and cause environmental damage. In addition, if you are in individual sanitation (pit or micro station) this can lead to system malfunctions or even irreparable damage. Here is a list of common products that should not be flushed down the toilet: Toilet paper: Only toilet paper designed specifically for use in toilets should be flushed down the toilet. Other types of paper, such as paper towels, paper towels, paper wipes, and newspaper, do not dissolve as easily and can clog drains. Wet Wipes: Baby wipes, disinfecting wipes, cleaning wipes and other cloth wipes do not disintegrate well in water and can cause serious blockages in drains. Cotton swabs and tampons: Cotton swabs, tampons, tampon applicators and sanitary napkins should not be flushed down the toilet. They can build up and cause blockages. Medications: Expired or unused medications should not be flushed down the toilet, as they can contaminate water sources. Check with your local pharmacy or drug take-back programs for proper disposal. Household chemicals: Household chemicals, such as cleaning products, solvents, paints and oils, should not be flushed down the toilet. They can contaminate groundwater and wastewater treatment systems. Disposable plastic and plastic products: Plastic items, such as toys, wrappers, bottle caps, straws, etc., should not be flushed down the toilet. They do not break down in water and can cause blockages. Solid Food Products: Food scraps, egg shells and other solid food waste should not be flushed down the toilet. They can also cause blockages. Hair: Hair easily gets tangled around pipes and can cause blockages. It is best to throw them in the trash. Tissues and paper towels: Although these products are made of paper, they are stronger than toilet paper and should not be flushed down the toilet. Cigarettes: Cigarette butts should not be flushed down the toilet, as they can mix with other waste down the drain. It is important to dispose of these products properly by throwing them in a trash can or using proper recycling or disposal methods to avoid plumbing problems and protect the environment. By following these best practices, you help avoid costly blockages and wastewater treatment problems.
How to determine the size of an individual sanitation?
How to determine the size of an individual sanitation? The size of an individual sewerage system, also called an on-site sewerage system or septic tank, is determined based on several factors, including wastewater treatment needs, the capacity of the soil to absorb the wastewater, the local regulations and the specific needs of the residence or business. Here are the main factors to take into account when determining the size of an individual sewerage: The number of people or dwellings served: The first consideration is the capacity required to treat the wastewater produced by the number of people or dwellings that will be served by the system. The more people or housing there are, the greater the processing capacity required. Wastewater Flow Rates: It is essential to determine the average or maximum wastewater flow rate expected for the site, taking into account water consumption patterns and fixtures used (toilets, showers, sinks, washing machines). dishes, washing machines, etc.). Soil Characteristics: The ability of the soil to absorb wastewater, also called soil permeability rate, is crucial. Soil percolation tests are often performed to determine this capacity. Clay soils, for example, may require a larger treatment system than sandy soils. Local Regulations: Local authorities may have specific regulations regarding the size and type of individual sewage system permitted. It is important to comply with these regulations to obtain the necessary authorizations. Available space: The availability of space on site can also influence the size of the system. Individual sanitation systems must respect the minimum required distances from buildings, wells, watercourses, etc. Type of system: The type of individual sanitation system chosen may vary depending on the needs and constraints of the site. Options include septic tanks, aerobic treatment systems, sand filters, irrigation beds, and more. Each type of system has its own size specifications. Quality of treated water: Depending on the needs, the quality of the treated water can influence the design of the system. For example, if water needs to be treated for reuse in irrigation, this may require a more advanced treatment system. Future development: It is important to take into account potential future needs, such as adding rooms to the home or increasing the number of occupants, to size the system accordingly. In summary, the size of an individual sewerage is determined by taking into account many factors, including wastewater treatment needs, soil capacity, local regulations and specific site needs. It is recommended to work with a sanitation professional and specialist engineer to properly design and size the system based on these factors.
What parameters are necessary to determine the choice of a lifting station?
The choice of the type of lifting station (or pumping station) depends on several essential parameters which are taken into account when designing pumping systems for the transfer of wastewater or rainwater. Here are the main parameters to consider: Maximum expected flow rate: The maximum flow rate of wastewater or stormwater is one of the most important factors in determining the size of the pump and lift station. Peak flow rates must be taken into account, particularly during heavy rain or periods of heavy use, to correctly size the lifting station. Lifting height: The difference in vertical height between the lowest point where the water is collected and the highest point where it must be pumped is an essential parameter. The higher the lift height, the greater the pump power required. Horizontal transport distance: The horizontal distance between the collection point and the discharge point, as well as the profile of the discharge pipe (upward or downward slope), influences the pump's ability to transport water over this distance. Nature of the pumped fluid: It is important to know the nature of the fluid (wastewater, rainwater, industrial effluent, etc.) to select the materials of the pump and the lifting station adapted to chemical compatibility and resistance to corrosion. Size of solid particles: If the water transported contains solid particles, their size must be taken into account to select a pump capable of handling these particles without obstruction. Frequency of use: The frequency with which the pump will be used is important in determining the durability and resistance of the pump and the lifting station.
Why use rainwater?
There are many benefits to using rainwater, including environmental, economic and practical benefits. Here are some reasons why rainwater is often collected and used: Conservation of fresh water resources: Using rainwater for activities such as garden irrigation, car washing, toilets, etc. reduces the demand on drinking water resources from underground sources or rivers. This helps preserve these precious resources for essential use such as human consumption. Saves money: Collecting and using rainwater helps reduce water bills because rainwater is free and plentiful when available. Flood Reduction: Rainwater harvesting can reduce the amount of water flowing quickly into storm drains, which can help prevent local flooding during heavy rainfall. Reduced carbon footprint: By reducing the demand for drinking water from treatment facilities, the use of rainwater can also reduce the energy needed to pump, treat and distribute drinking water, thereby helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Better Water for Plants: Rainwater is naturally soft, free of chlorine and other chemicals commonly found in tap water. It is therefore often better for plants, promoting their growth. Water self-sufficiency: Rainwater harvesting can provide a self-sustaining water source in the event of a shortage of drinking water due to supply failures or natural disasters. Water Conservation Education: By using rainwater, individuals and communities can increase awareness about the importance of water conservation and sustainable management of water resources. However, it is important to note that the use of rainwater may be regulated by local authorities, and it may not be suitable for all uses, particularly human consumption without proper treatment. It is therefore essential to comply with local regulations and take into consideration necessary precautions when collecting and using rainwater.
How to extend the life of tanks?
Extending the life of a rainwater tank or water storage tank in general requires proper maintenance and precautions to avoid potential damage. Here are some tips to extend the life of your tank: Regular maintenance: Inspect your tank regularly for leaks, corrosion or damage. Periodic inspections allow you to spot problems early, which can prevent more costly repairs in the future. Cleaning: Make sure the tank is clean inside. Deposits of sediment or contaminants can damage the cistern and reduce the quality of the stored water. You may need to drain the cistern periodically to thoroughly clean it. Corrosion prevention: If your tank is metallic, make sure it is properly coated to prevent corrosion. Also consider installing sacrificial anodes to protect the metal from corrosion. UV Protection: If your tank is exposed to sunlight, protect it from ultraviolet (UV) rays by using reflective paint or covering the tank with an opaque material to prevent UV degradation. Overflow Management: Ensure the tank's overflow management system is functioning properly to avoid overloading or excessive pressure on the tank. Water Filtration and Pretreatment: Use appropriate filters to prevent debris and particles from entering the cistern. Proper pretreatment helps reduce the amount of sediment and impurities in stored water. Freeze Protection: If you live in a frost-prone area, be sure to protect the cistern from freezing by using heaters or draining the cistern during the winter season. Waterproofing: Make sure all connections, joints and openings in the tank are waterproof to prevent water leaks. Checking water levels: Avoid leaving the tank empty for long periods of time, as this can cause the tank to break down due to air pressure. Fill the tank regularly to maintain stable internal pressure. Monitoring water quality: Monitor the quality of the water stored in the cistern to ensure that it is clean and drinkable, especially if you are using it for drinking purposes. By following these maintenance and precautionary tips, you can significantly extend the life of your rainwater tank or water storage tank, while ensuring that the water stored remains clean and of high quality.
Can I do the installation work on my non-collective sanitation system (ANC) myself?
Installing an ANC is a complex task that requires plumbing and sanitation expertise. ANC installation work must comply with strict safety standards and local regulations to ensure the proper operation of the system, protection of the environment and public health. Therefore, it is generally recommended to hire licensed professionals to carry out ANC installation. Here are some reasons why it is best to call in experts for ANC installation: Knowledge of local regulations: Professional installers are familiar with local standards and regulations for sanitation and ANC installation, which ensures that the system will comply with all legal requirements. Technical Expertise: Installing an ANC requires technical expertise to properly size the system based on needs, site topography, soil type and other factors. Professionals have the experience to perform these calculations. Preventing Future Problems: Improper installation can lead to serious problems such as leaks, blockages, overflows and groundwater contamination. Professionals are trained to avoid these problems. Health and safety: The installation of an ANC may involve health and safety risks, particularly due to the handling of faecal matter and the need to work in trenches. Professionals are equipped to manage these risks appropriately. Warranties and Insurance: Many professionals offer warranties on their work, which can protect you if something goes wrong with the system later. Maintenance Tips: Professionals can also provide advice on ongoing maintenance of your ANC to ensure its durability and proper operation. If you are considering the installation of an ANC, it is strongly recommended that you consult a licensed sanitation or plumbing professional. This will ensure that the system is installed correctly and in full compliance with local regulations, saving you from potential problems in the future.
Is it essential to maintain my non-collective sanitation system?
Yes, it is absolutely essential to regularly maintain a non-collective sanitation system (ANC), also called autonomous or individual sanitation. Proper maintenance of your non-collective sanitation system is essential for several reasons: Ensuring proper operation: Regular maintenance helps ensure that your sanitation system is functioning properly. Breakdowns or malfunctions can cause serious problems, including sewage overflows, foul odors and public health risks. Prevent Clogs: The pipes and components of your sanitation system can become clogged over time due to the buildup of solids. Regular maintenance, including pumping of septic tanks, helps prevent these blockages and maintain a smooth flow of wastewater. Protect the environment: Non-communal sanitation systems treat wastewater on-site, which means that poor maintenance can lead to contamination of groundwater, waterways and soils. Proper maintenance helps prevent environmental pollution. Save Money: Preventative maintenance generally costs less than emergency repairs or replacement of failing components. By keeping your system in good condition, you will save money in the long run. Extend the life of the system: A well-maintained sanitation system has a longer lifespan. By taking care of your installation, you avoid having to replace it prematurely. Comply with regulations: In many regions, regular maintenance of a non-collective sanitation system is a legal obligation. Failure to comply with these regulations may result in fines or other sanctions. Maintenance of a non-communal sanitation system may include activities such as pumping septic tanks, inspecting components, cleaning pipes, checking water levels, replacing faulty components, etc. . The frequency of these operations may vary depending on the type of system you have and local regulations. It is important to comply with local regulations regarding the maintenance of non-collective sanitation and to consult a licensed professional to determine the specific maintenance needs of your system. By ensuring your system is maintained regularly and properly, you protect your health, the environment and your long-term investment.