Stormwater Separator Systems:
How to maintain them properly
In the spring, issues of stormwater runoff caused by rain and snow melt are especially prevalent. Industrial waste and other contaminants are a constant problem in stormwater runoff, and obviously, they threaten the environment. According to the University of Utah, about four million pounds of material is required for industries to produce their products for a typical American family in one year. While most of the materials are not considered hazardous, such as construction materials, there is a substantial amount of hazardous waste that poses a serious threat to the environment.
Commercial and Residential Hazardous Waste
Hazardous waste includes solid, liquid and sludge that contain harmful properties. Industries commonly generating this type of waste include chemical production, petroleum refining, pesticide manufacturing, and many others. Residential properties also contribute to hazardous waste production—when you use paints, aerosol cans and motor oil, to name a few.
Preventing Water Pollution
Water pollution is caused by foreign contaminants and dangerous chemicals coming in contact with water. Some of these pollutants include sewage, pesticides, fertilizers, or metals like mercury and lead. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), about 64 percent of lakes are not clean enough for swimming or fishing! And 44 percent of streams are not clean enough, either.
Many companies are guilty of contributing to the pollution of lakes, rivers, oceans and drinking water because of contaminants in stormwater runoff. That’s why a stormwater separator system, or stormceptor, is critical in preventing this kind of pollution.
What You Need to Know about Stormwater Separator Systems
Many different industries require the use of a stormwater separator system. Some of these industries include agriculture, airports, wind turbine foundations, golf courses, industrial and construction.
Not all stormwater separator systems are made the same. But their basic purpose is the same: to separate oil, grease, sediment and other particles from stormwater runoff. It takes trained professionals like the ones at Jolin Paving & Excavating, Inc. to clean these stormceptors properly without damaging your property.
Different Types of Stormwater Separator Systems
There are many types of separator equipment. Which type a business uses depends on the unique needs of that particular business. For instance, there are above-ground and below-ground separator systems. Many groundwater treatment separators are above ground. Depending on your budget, there are separators with stainless steel casings, some aluminum, and also plastic. Some equipment companies warn against cheaper plastic models, as they may prematurely back up with sludge. However, it depends on the model and your particular business needs.
Below-ground options are typically available in carbon steel. Some steel models are preferable because they don’t need a pump, and the double wall construction adds extra protection for the environment. Below-ground cylindrical separators come in many models with leak protectors and materials that prevent the steel from becoming corroded.
Whether you have just put in a new system, or have had an older system retrofitted to perform better, or if you’re still struggling with an older system that plugs up frequently, the professionals at Jolin Paving & Excavating, Inc. can work with you to find the best solution for maintaining your system.
How to Clean Stormwater Separator Systems
While it’s important to have a stormceptor in place, it’s even more important to schedule regular maintenance. Not only will this improve the efficiency of the stormwater separator system, but it will also extend the life of the system and prevent costly back-ups. It’s much better to prevent a problem early on, than to have to fix a disaster later. Jolin Paving & Excavating, Inc. schedules regular maintenance, and has the resources necessary to handle above- or below-ground systems. Call on our expertise to ensure safe, clean and efficient maintenance of your stormwater separator system.
Delivering unparalleled customer service, Jolin Paving & Excavating, Inc. goes the extra mile at a reasonable cost to get the job done. Contact us today for a consultation!
Jolin Paving & Excavating, Inc. is your New England connection—serving Massachusetts, southern New Hampshire, Vermont, Maine and northern to central Connecticut and Rhode Island.