Understanding Your System and Keeping It Running Properly
Understanding Your System and Keeping It Running Properly
Aerobic sewer systems are becoming more common in new homes across Indian River County and the Treasure Coast. Many home builders are installing Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs) as an alternative to traditional septic systems.
While these systems are effective when properly maintained, many homeowners are unfamiliar with how they work—or what kind of maintenance they require.
At Meeks Plumbing, we regularly help homeowners who have recently moved into new homes with aerobic systems and are experiencing issues like odors, alarms, or inconsistent performance. In many cases, these problems can be resolved quickly with proper maintenance and system adjustments.
With more than 40 years of plumbing and septic experience serving the Treasure Coast, Meeks Plumbing helps homeowners keep their wastewater systems operating safely and reliably.
“Meeks plumbing was referred to me by my neighbor. I called and got scheduled for a service appointment within 2 days. I did not have an emergency. The technician Manny called on the morning of the appointment to let me know he would be there shortly. When he arrived we discussed the issue I was having and he gave me a reasonable solution to take care of it. He got right to work and finished quickly. I was given a bill for services rendered and I was very pleased with the entire process. I highly recommend Meeks Plumbing.”
– Steve J.
What Is an Aerobic Sewer System?
An Aerobic Treatment Unit (ATU) works differently than a traditional septic system. Instead of relying only on natural bacteria inside the tank, these systems introduce oxygen to help break down wastewater more efficiently.
Because of this process, aerobic systems contain additional mechanical components such as:
- Aeration pumps
- Electrical control panels and alarms
- Additional treatment chambers
- Spray or drip distribution systems
These systems can perform extremely well when maintained correctly, but they require routine service and monitoring to keep everything working properly.
Why Some New Homeowners Experience Odor Problems
One of the most common concerns we hear from homeowners with newly installed aerobic systems is unpleasant odors around the property.
A properly functioning aerobic system should not produce noticeable smells. When odors appear, it often means something within the system needs adjustment or maintenance.
Because of this process, aerobic systems contain additional mechanical components such as:
- Aeration pump issues
- Improper system settings
- Lack of regular maintenance
- Imbalanced bacterial activity
- Spray head or distribution issues
Most of these issues can be resolved quickly once the system is inspected by an experienced technician.
Do You Have to Use the Company That Installed the System?
Many homeowners believe they must continue using the company that installed their aerobic system for maintenance and service.
In reality, homeowners are free to choose any qualified plumbing or septic professional who holds the license for your system to maintain it.
At Meeks Plumbing, our team understands how these systems operate and can provide ongoing maintenance, inspections, and troubleshooting when needed.
“Terry was amazing. We are new to the area and someone referred him to us for some plumbing issues we had. Fixed everything, was neat, respectful and prices were less than we expected. We would definitely use them again”
– John D.
What Proper Aerobic System Maintenance Includes
Routine service is essential to prevent odors, alarms, and system failures. A typical aerobic maintenance visit may include:
- Inspecting aeration pumps and mechanical components
- Testing control panels and system alarms
- Checking tank levels and treatment activity
- Inspecting spray heads or distribution systems
- Identifying early signs of wear or system imbalance
Regular maintenance helps ensure your system continues to operate efficiently while extending the life of the equipment.
Signs Your Aerobic System May Need Service
If you notice any of the following warning signs, it may be time to schedule an inspection:
- Sewage or wastewater odors outside the home
- System alarms or flashing warning lights
- Standing water near spray areas
- Slow drains inside the home
- Unusual noises from the system components
Addressing these signs early can prevent larger and more expensive repairs later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should an aerobic sewer system be serviced?
A: Most aerobic systems should be inspected and serviced twice per year to ensure pumps, alarms, and treatment components are operating properly, or per Health Department guidelines.
Q: Are odor problems normal with aerobic systems?
A: No. When properly maintained, aerobic systems should operate without noticeable odors. If smells are present, it usually means the system needs adjustment or maintenance.
Q: Can Meeks Plumbing service systems installed by other companies?
A: Yes. Our team regularly services aerobic systems installed by builders and contractors throughout the Treasure Coast.
What Proper Aerobic System Maintenance Includes
Routine service is essential to prevent odors, alarms, and system failures. A typical aerobic maintenance visit may include:
- Inspecting aeration pumps and mechanical components
- Testing control panels and system alarms
- Checking tank levels and treatment activity
- Inspecting spray heads or distribution systems
- Identifying early signs of wear or system imbalance
Regular maintenance helps ensure your system continues to operate efficiently while extending the life of the equipment.