Hydro-Action TurtleDrip AQ-200, AQ-200 Wastewater Effluent Management System, AP-Series Wastewater Effluent Treatment, WASTEFLOW PC Wasteflow Drip tubing Design, Installation, Operation and Maintenance Manual

TurtleDrip™ model AQ-200
Wastewater Effluent Management System (WEMS)
Design, Installation, Operation and Maintenance Manual
www.hydro-action.com
(800) 462-6072
(574) 936-6022
Jan 2008
Hydro-Action® Industries
TurtleDrip™ WEMS
Design, Installation, Operation and Maintenance Manual
Released February 2004. Updates: January 2004
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION……………………………………………………………………………………….………………….…..3
TurtleDrip™ WEMS PROCESS DISCRIPTION…………………...…………………………..…………………….....4-5
™
TurtleDrip SYSTEM COMPONNENTS
®
1. AP-Series Set-N-Go Treatment System….………………………………………………………………......…...6
2. TurtleDrip™ Wastewater Effluent Management System (WEMS).……………….…………………………......6
®
3. WASTEFLOW DRIPLINE………………………………………………………………..………………….…....6,7
4. Supply Manifold………………………………………………………………….……………….…………………....8
5. Return Manifold………………………………………………………………….……………………………..…...…8
6. Air Vacuum Breaker…………….……………………………………………….………………………………....…8
7. Zone Valves………..…………………………………………………………….……………………………...….….8
INITIAL START-UP & OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS…………...…………………………………………….….…9-13
1. Preparing system for start-up………………………………………………...………….………………………....10
2. Blowing out debris………………………………………………...……………………….………………….……..10
3. Air Displacement…………..……………………………………...………………………...………………….…....11
4. #1 Performance Data………………..…………………………...………………………...………………….…….11
5. Adjusting system for normal operation……………………………………………………………………..….11-12
6. #2 Performance Data………………………………………………………………………………………….….…12
7. Positioning vacuum breaker holes……………………………………………………………………………..…..12
8. Multiple fields……………………………………………………………………………………………………..12-13
9. Securing site………………….………………………………………………………………………………..……..13
10. Providing homeowner information…………………………………………………………………………...……..13
ROUTINE INSPECTION & MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS….……………………………………………………..14
RESTORING DRIP TUBE PERFORMANCE…………...…………………………………………………………….15-16
FLOW MONITORING PROCEDURES……………………………………………………………………………………17
SYSTEM INSTALLATION…………...…………………………………………………..……………………………..18-19
SUBSURFACE DRIP INSTALLATION METHODS…...………………………………………………………..…….…20
WINTERIZATION…...…………………………………………………………………..……………..………………….…21
SYSTEM DESIGN
Overview of designing entire drip system……………………………………………………………………22-23
Worksheet 1 – Dispersal field design for multipule zone systems………………..………………………24-25
Worksheet 2 – Pump selection………………………..……………………………………………………...26-27
Micro Dose Timer calculating and setting………………………………………………………………………..28
Design Parameters………………………..………………………………………………….…..…………….29-33
Wasteflow Dripline………………………..………………………………………………….…..……………..….34
Wasteflow PC………………..………………………………………………….…..……………..….35-36
Vacuum Breakers…………………………………………………………………………………………………..37
PVC 40 Friction Loss Chart………………………………………………………………………………………..38
Cyclone Filter………………..…………………………………..…………………………….…..………………..39
Worksheet 3 – As built system description………………………………………………………………………40
HOMEOWNERS GUIDE FOR CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF DRIP DISPERSAL FIELD……………………….41
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE…………………………………..…………………………….…..…………….....…..42-43
FIELD DESIGNS……………………………………………………………………………………………………….........44
RECOGNITIONS…………………….……………………………………………………………………………………….45
-2-
INTRODUCTION
The TurtleDrip™ Wastewater Effluent Management System (WEMS) has been designed to protect and
monitor the drip dispersal field. After the wastewater from a home or commercial establishment has
been treated in the wastewater treatment plant to less than 30 BOD the WEMS is designed to not only
filter the effluent before it is discharged to the drip tubing but it is designed to monitor what is happening
within the drip tubing (field) itself, thus providing for a reliable long-lasting drip field installation that will
provide years of dependable service for the owner. The TurtleDrip™ utilizes Geoflow’s WASTEFLOW ®
PC drip tubing, which is 1/2” pressurized polyethylene tubing. It is designed utilizing the grid concept with
supply and return flush manifolds at each end creating a close loop system. The object with effluent
dispersal is usually to disperse the effluent utilizing the minimum area as quickly and safely as possible
at an approximately uniform rate throughout the year.
Subsurface drip is a highly efficient method to dispose of effluent. Small precise amounts of water are
uniformly applied under the soil surface from multiple points.
The main advantages of a subsurface drip system for effluent dispersal are…
Human and animal contact with effluent is minimized, reducing health risks.
Correctly designed systems will not cause ponding or runoff.
Can be used under difficult circumstances such as high water tables, various soil types,
rocky terrain, steep slopes, around existing buildings, trees, or other vegetation and on
windy sights.
Disposal of water is maximized by means of evaporation.
The system requires no gravel, and is easy to install directly into indigenous soils,
maintaining the natural landscape.
Minimizes deep percolation.
Consumption of nitrates by plant life is increased.
Invisible and vandal proof installations.
Systems are durable with a long expected life.
Non-intrusive. It allows use of the space while operating.
Effluent can be re-used for irrigation.
Note: Please follow your state and county regulations for onsite wastewater dispersal. This manual is
intended to be a guide to users of the TurtleDrip™ WEMS utilizing Geoflow’s drip tubing and should be
used only as a supplement to your local regulations.
-3-
TurtleDrip™ AQ-200 WEMS
Process Description
Raw Domestic Wastewater from a residential dwelling or commercial establishment enters the
properly sized wastewater treatment system where it is treated before entering the pump tank.
The pump tank is equipped with a properly sized pump and float switches. The float switches in the
tank and the micro-dosing timer control this pump mounted in the OPS®, which is part of the TurtleDrip™
model AQ-200 Wastewater Effluent Management System (WEMS). The TurtleDrip™ model AQ-200 is
mounted in the 24” riser of the pump tank.
The WEMS model 200 includes a Cyclone Filter, filter flush valve, field flush valve, recycle valve,
four schrader valves, seven unions, and associated piping and hose. Also, the Meter/Injection Loop is
an important tool to monitor what is happening in the drip field itself and if there is ever a partial
plugging, cleaning the drip field and emitters is accomplished with chemical injection.
When the treated effluent level in the pump tank engages the on/off float switch and the microdosing timer sends power to the pump, the pump engages, discharging treated effluent into the
Cyclone Filter where all particles larger than 100 micron are removed. The filtered effluent then
proceeds to the supply header and on to the drip field causing each emitter to emit effluent into the soil
with a portion returning to the pump tank via the field flush return.
The effluent re-enters the management system via the field flush valve. This valve is used to control
the pressure and the flow in the drip field (7 to 60 PSI, but preferably 10 to 45 PSI as recommended by
Geoflow). The field flush valve should be adjusted to maintain a minimum of one gallon per minute
through each drip tube run to accomplish a continuous field flush. This field flush is returned to the bottom
of the pump tank via a PVC drop pipe. In doing this, particles are never allowed to build in the drip tubing,
keeping the field clean. Any trace amounts of particles that enter the pump tank in this way are re-filtered
by the Cyclone Filter thus keeping the pump tank clean.
-4-
Process Description (Cont.)
The Cyclone Filter includes a stainless screen 150 mesh / 100 micron filter element. The self-cleaning
action is efficient over a range of flow rates depending on the spin plate selected. The clean-out port is
at the base and is equipped with a hose and a filter flush valve. This valve is adjusted to maintain a
continuous flush (two gallons per minute) and is piped back to the treatment plant for further treatment.
A recycle valve is included as a part of the management system and is adjusted to maintain Cyclone
Filter flows at optimum levels. This recycle is returned to the bottom of the pump tank via a PVC drop
pipe. The four schrader valves are positioned such that inlet filter pressure, outlet filter pressure, field
supply pressure and field return pressure can be monitored.
So automatically, every time the pump cycles on, the effluent is filtered, the drip field is pressurized,
the emitters emit effluent into the soil, each drip tube run is field flushed back to the pump tank, any
debris in the filter is flushed to the treatment plant, and to maintain optimum filter flow, a portion of the
effluent is recycled back to the pump tank. All of this without any moving valves.
-5-
TurtleDrip™ AQ-200 SYSTEM COMPONNENTS
A typical TurtleDrip™ AQ-200 System consists of the following:
1.
AEROBIC TREATMENT SYSTEM
a) Properly sized Pre-Treatment tank
b) Properly sized Aerobic Treatment Plant
c) OPS® model 50-32 with Micro-dosing timer
d) Properly sized pump tank
2. TurtleDrip™ WASTWATER EFFLUENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (WEMS)
a) Properly sized water pump
TurtleDrip™ requires one of four models (Part #’s below).
• 100147: 1/2 HP high flow
• 100154: 1/2 HP high head
• 100149: 1 HP high flow
• 100148: 1 HP high head
b) Two float switches (One on/off switch and one high level alarm)
c) Model #700010 1-1/2” Cyclone Filter
The TurtleDrip™ WEMS uses a self cleaning Cyclone Filter with a stainless screen
150 mesh / 100 micron filter element. The self-cleaning action is efficient over a range
of flow rates depending on the spin plate. (Spin plate part #’s below)
• 702020: 2-hole spin plate
• 702019: 3-hole spin plate
• 702018: 4-hole spin plate
d) Filter flush valve
Used to flush debris from the filter cleanout port back to the treatment tank. This is
manually adjusted to maintain one to two gallons per minute.
e) Field flush valve and hose
Used to maintain a continuous flush of the drip field. This is manually adjusted to
maintain a minimum of one gallon per minute per drip tube run.
f) Recycle valve
Used to maintain proper flow through Cyclone Filter for efficient filter cleaning.
g) Four Schrader valves
Used to check filter inlet pressure, filter outlet pressure, field supply and return
pressure.
h) Meter/Injection Loop
Used to monitor the flow through the filter and the drip field and inject chemical to clean
the drip field.
3. WASTEFLOW® DRIPLINE
WASTEFLOW ® dripline carries the water into the dispersal/reuse area. The dripline is
connected to the supply and return manifolds with spinlock fittings. In the case of two parallel
drip tubes being connected to one another to extend their length, flexible PVC pipe should be
used to make the “U” bend. Spinlock fittings are used to make the transition between flexible
-6-
PVC pipe and the polyethylene drip tube. Typical spacing between each dripline and between
drip emitters is 24” on center. 12” spacing is used regularly for soils with very low or high
permeability. The pipe has no joints that may pull apart during installation and is ideal for tractor
mounted burying machines. It is sold in 500 ft. rolls. Rolls of alternative lengths, diameters and
emitter spacing may be special ordered.
WASTEFLOW® dripline features:
a) ROOTGUARD®
The risk of root intrusion with an emitter slowly releasing nutrient rich effluent directly into
the soil is well known to anyone who has observed a leaking sewer pipe. All Geoflow
drip emitters are guaranteed to be protected against root intrusion with ROOTGUARD®.
This patented process fuses the root-growth inhibitor, TREFLAN® into each drip emitter
during manufacturing. Treflan® is registered with the United States EPA for this
application. The ROOTGUARD® technology slowly releases Treflan® in minute
quantities to prevent root cells from dividing and growing into the barrier zone. It is
chemically degradable, non-systemic, and virtually insoluble in water (0.3 ppm).
ROOTGUARD® carries a 10 year warranty against root intrusion.
b) Bactericide protection
Geoflow’s WASTEFLOW ® has an inner lining impregnated with a bactericide, Ultra
Fresh DM-50, to inhibit bacterial growth on the walls of the tube and in the emitter. This
minimizes the velocity required to flush WASTEFLOW ® dripline. With the TurtleDrip™
WEMS, we recommend field flushing at one gallon per minute per drip tube run. This
field flush rate coupled with the continuous filter flush of the TurtleDrip™ WEMS
prevents biological solids from growing and building up in the drip tube.
c) Turbulent Flow Path
WASTEFLOW ® drip emitters are pre-inserted in the tube 6”, 12” or 24” apart, with 24”
being the most popular. Angles in the emitter flow path are designed to cause
turbulence in order to equalize flow between emitters and keep the emitters clean.
Geoflow emitters boast large flow paths, which, coupled with turbulent flow, have
proven over the years to be extremely reliable and dependable.
d) WASTEFLOW® PC Dripline
WASTEFLOW ® PC have turbulent flow path emitters
with ROOTGUARD® and bactericide protection. WASTEFLOW ® PC has the
element of a silicone rubber diaphragm that moves up and down over the
emitter outlet to equalize flows regardless of pressure between 7 and 60 psi. To
ensure a long life the recommended operating range in 10 to 45 psi.
i)
WASTEFLOW ® PC can be run long distances.
ii)
Steep slopes. Systems should be designed for the dripline lateral to follow the
contour.
iii)
Rolling terrain. If the difference in height from trough to peak exceeds six feet
then WASTEFLOW ® PC should be used.
*Vacuum relief valves must be at the top of each rise.
-7-
4. SUPPLY MANIFOLD
The supply manifold carries the effluent from the dosing tank to the dispersal field. Rigid PVC is
used and must be designed to slope back to the pump tank in freezing conditions. The velocity
in the manifold should be between 2 ft. per second and 5 ft. per second. Refer to the PVC 40
FRICTION LOSS CHART on page 39 to determine the best diameter for your application.
5. RETURN MANIFOLD
The return manifold connects the ends of the driplines together and returns a minimum of one
gallon per minute from each drip tube run back to the dosing tank. This provides for continuous
flushing of each drip tube run, thus keeping the tubing clean. Rigid PVC is used to accomplish
this. The return manifold should be designed to slope back to the pump tank in freezing
conditions.
Note: For flow equalization through the drip field, to maintain an even one gallon per minute
field flush, the flow equalization technique as seen in the diagram design examples on pages
45-49 should be employed. The first drip tube to leave the supply manifold is the last to enter
the return manifold; the last to leave the supply manifold is the first to enter the return manifold.
6. AIR VACUUM BREAKER
Air vacuum breakers are installed at the high points to prevent soil from being sucked into the
emitters due to back siphoning or backpressure. This is an absolute necessity with
underground drip systems. They are also used for proper draining of the supply and return
manifolds in freezing conditions. One is used on the high end of the supply manifold and one
on the high point of the return manifold. Additional air vents may be required in uneven terrain.
Freezing conditions require the air vacuum breaker be protected with insulation.
7. ZONE VALVES
Used to divide single dispersal fields into multiple zones. These can be hydraulic activated
index valves or solenoid valves. If solenoid valves are used, a properly designed control panel
must be used.
-8-
INITIAL START-UP &
OPERATION
The TurtleDrip™ Wastewater Effluent Management System (WEMS) has been designed and built to
provide dependable service and to protect and monitor the drip dispersal field. For the WEMS to do
it’s job effectively, however, the treatment system must be installed properly and maintained on a
regular basis. To effectively accomplish this, refer to the Hydro-Action® Industries AP-Series
Installation Manual and Operation and Maintenance Manual.
ADJUSTING THE PRESSURE AND FLOWS WITHIN THE TurtleDrip™ WEMS & DRIP FIELD
Within the TurtleDrip™ WEMS is everything you need to properly adjust the pressure and flows within
the drip field, the Cyclone Filter, the filter flush, the field flush, and to monitor the filter differential
pressure, supply and return pressure and to monitor the flows in gallons per minute (gpm) within the
entire system. The Meter/Injection Loop is an important tool that is used with the WEMS. After final
installation, the meter portion of the tool is connected to the WEMS via a roll-out spool and is used to
adjust flows at startup.
Note: Proper design of the drip field as well as proper pump sizing is essential before flows and
pressures can be adjusted.
-9-
The following is a step-by-step procedure of adjusting the pressures and flows throughout the WEMS
and the drip field after installation. Installation should be complete with the exception of gluing the
field return at the WEMS and covering open trenches.
1. PREPARING FOR SYSTEM START-UP, (INSTALLING LOOP & GAUGES):
Remove the roll-out spool from the
WEMS and install the Meter Loop
portion of the Meter/Injection Loop.
Install a pressure gauge with quick
chuck on each of the four schrader
valves in the WEMS. Pressure
gauges with quick chucks can also
be installed on vacuum breakers in
the field located on the supply and
return manifolds thus providing
definitive field pressures. Remove
valve box cover to install. We are
now prepared to monitor field supply
pressure, field return pressure, inlet
filter pressure and outlet filter
pressure (filter differential pressure).
We can also monitor the flow
dripping from the emitters, field flush, filter flush and flow through the filter all in gallons per
minute (gpm). Note: For flow monitoring procedures, refer to page 17.
2. BLOWING OUT DEBRIS
Close recycle valve and filter flush valve and fill the pump tank with enough water to engage
the water pump. Run the water pump (pump on/off float should be covered with water and
manually engage the micro-dosing timer in the OPS) long enough to blow any dirt or debris
out of the drip field and supply and return manifold that may have entered during installation.
Turn the pump off (manually disengage the micro-dosing timer) and glue the field return at
the field flush line of WEMS.
- 10 -
3. AIR DISPLACEMENT:
Completely open field flush valve, crack open filter flush valve and recycle valve. Using the
micro-dosing timer, engage the pump. The pump will displace the air and fill the filter, supply
manifold, drip field and return manifold. (For timer setting, see page 28.)
4. #1 PERFORMANCE DATA: (FIELD TEST)
Once all air is displaced, close field flush valve, filter flush valve, and recycle valve. Adjust
test valve on Meter Loop to achieve a desired pressure between 20 to 40 psi. on Meter
Loop gauge. This pressure reading reflects field supply pressure. Operate in this manner
for one to two minutes to stabilize system. The service provider should log the pressure and
the meter reading in gpm (#1 performance data) in the maintenance logbook and
homeowner data sheet. Note: For flow monitoring procedures, refer to page 17.
This will give the service provider the start up performance data of the new and clean drip
field. When service provider performs future routine inspection and service, this same
measurement can be taken to determine the condition of the drip field. Refer to “ROUTINE
INSPECTION & MAINTENANCE” section, page 14 for more details on tracking the fields
condition.
5. ADJUSTING SYSTEM FOR NORMAL OPERATION: (See diagram 5.6. on next page)
To do this, simultaneously adjust field flush valve, recycle valve and filter flush valve. Note:
test valve on Meter Loop should be completely open. Pressure should be maintained in the
field at the recommended range of 10 to 45 psi. (While completing flow and pressure
adjustments of system, periodically check all connections in the drip field for leaks). Flow
- 11 -
returning from field through
field flush valve should be
physically measured to
provide for a minimum of one
gallon per minute from each
drip tube run. (To do this
remove Pvc drop-pipe and
measure with incremented
container. Adjust filter flush
valve to achieve 2 gallons per
minute. (Note: On drip fields
where total flow dripping from
emitters is less than 4 GPM,
filter flush should be adjusted
to one GPM). Reading
effluent meter in gpm and
adding filter flush
measurement will provide the
total flow through the filter
itself in gallons per minute.
Note: For flow monitoring
procedures, refer to page 17.
Filter flow should be
maintained within optimum
flow ranges to provide for
proper cleaning of filter. Note:
Adjust recycle valve to bring
filter flow within optimum
range; this will lower pressure
within the system and drip field.
It may be necessary to operate field at low end of pressure requirements to achieve this.
Filter will be equipped with a two, three, or four hole spin-plate, depending on field design
and pump sizing. For optimum flow ranges of different spin-plate sizes refer in “DESIGN”
Section, on page 40. Achieving these pressures and flows will require some diligence and
back and forth adjusting of the valves.
Note: Changing the position of one valve will change pressure and flows somewhat
throughout the system.
6. #2 PERFORMANCE DATA: (See diagram 5.6. above)
After pressure and flows have been adjusted, the service provider should log the pressures,
the meter reading, field flush flow, and filter flush flow in gallons per minute (gpm) in the
maintenance logbook and homeowner data sheet (#2 performance data). Turn the pump off
and return the system to normal operating mode. Upon finding no leaks in the field, cover
any open trenches.
7. POSITIONING VACUUM BREAKER HOLES: (See diagram 7.9.10. on next page)
The field flush line and the recycle line have drop-pipes that divert the effluent to the bottom
of the pump tank. These drop-pipes have 1/8” vacuum breaker holes located below the
union, & should be positioned such that under pressure they spray toward the tank wall.
8. MULTIPLE FIELDS: (See diagram next page)
In the event the drip dispersal system contains multiple fields utilizing the same WEMS and
an alternating valve, step 4 (#1 Performance Data) must be performed for each field and
logged accordingly.
- 12 -
Note: It is recommended that fields should be designed identical if possible. If this
cannot be accomplished due to site conditions, secondary fields should have less but
not less than 400 lineal ft. of drip tubing than the main drip field. Management system
pressures and flows should be adjusted for normal operation of the main drip field as
explained in step 5. It is acknowledged that secondary field pressures and flows will be
slightly altered but will remain within tolerance levels.
9. SECURING SITE:
Remove the Meter Loop and replace it with the roll
out spool. Remove the four pressure gauges and
replace them with the schrader valve caps. Place lid
on riser and secure properly with security screws. If
pressure gauges were used in field on vacuum
breakers, remove these and replace valve box
covers.
10. PROVIDING HOMEOWNER INFORMATION:
Provide owner with final as-built diagrams, flow
measurements and pressure readings (#1 & #2
performance data).
- 13 -
ROUTINE INSPECTION & MAINTENANCE
(Check #2 data, check #1 data)
Although the TurtleDrip™ Wastewater Effluent Management System (WEMS) is totally automated, routine
inspection and preventative maintenance will ensure years of trouble-free operation for your entire system,
®
including the drip dispersal field. When the service provider services the effluent treatment system, usually
®
every six months, (refer to Hydro-Action Industries AP Series Operation & Maintenance Manual for service
®
required to treatme
treatment system) routine inspection and preventative maintenance should be performed
on the TurtleDrip™ WEMS and drip field.
Check & Record #2 Performance Data: Remove the WEMS cover and valve box covers over vacuum breakers
in the drip dispersal field. Remove roll-out spool and install Meter Loop. Remove schrader valve caps and install
pressure gauges in WEMS and on vacuum breakers in field. Engage the water pump by manually controlling the
®
micro-dosing timer in the OPS . Read pressures and the meter. Measure field flush and filter flush. They should
be the same as the pressures and flows written in the logbook when the system was first started up (#2
Performance Data). If filter differential pressure has increased, or #2 Performance Data has changed, shut pump
down, remove filter screen, clean and replace. Record #2 Performance Data (along with the date of service call)
in the logbook.
Check & Record #1 Performance Data: Close field flush valve, filter flush valve and recycle valve. Adjust
meter loop valve until field supply line pressure within the WEMS is the same as recorded logbook start-up
pressure (#1 Performance Data). Read the meter and record in logbook. It should be the same as start-up #1
Performance Data.
If the meter reading is the same as it was at start-up (#1 performance data) or has less than a 20% variance,
WEMS and drip dispersal field are performing within an acceptable range. In this case, set WEMS back to the
last recorded #2 Performance Data for normal operation. Remove meter loop and gauges; replace roll-out spool,
and secure the site.
However, if the meter reading for #1 Performance Data has a variance of 20% or greater, partial plugging of the
emitters has occurred. It is time to restore the drip dispersal tubing. Refer to “RESTORING DRIP TUBE
PERFORMANCE” Section on page 15. With accurate monitoring, service provider should be able to foresee a
greater than 20% variance, and discuss the necessary restoration procedure with the homeowner.
- 14 -
RESTORING DRIP TUBE PERFORMANCE – CHEMICAL INJECTION
Restoring the drip tubing will require the injection of a chemical that will dissolve the organics within the
drip tubing and the emitters and be compatible with the PVC supply and return piping and with the
polyethylene drip tubing. (Use high strength chlorine, hydrogen peroxide, etc.) The environmental site
should be taken into consideration when selecting an injection chemical.
Components required to accomplish the chemical injection are as follows:
1. Meter/Injection Loop
2. Field flush (disposal) hose
3. Disposal drum
4. Injection chemical and dilution container
Once it has been determined that restoration of the drip tubing is necessary, install the Meter/Injection
Loop. Next, install the field flush disposal hose. This is done by removing the field flush drop pipe and
connecting a hose to the 1 1/4” union down stream of the field flush valve and routing the hose out of
the pump tank and into your disposal drum. Position the chemical dilution container near the
Meter/Injection Loop. Add chemical at proper strength to the dilution container. Place injector venturi
suction tube into container. The proper amount of chemical will need to be injected into the drip field so
that the drip tubing and the emitters are full of chemical. To accomplish this, two methods can be used:
1. Calculate the amount of chemical in gallons that the drip field will hold.
2. Add trace dye in the chemical itself.
After chemical has been added to dilution container and injector venturi tube is in place you are now
ready to start the injection process. To do this, completely close the recycle valve and fully open the
field flush valve (the filter flush valve can remain in normal position) then start the water pump. Effluent
will be discharged through the cyclone filter, meter, and injector venturi where high strength chemical
will be added to the effluent stream before leaving the WEMS and entering the drip tubing. The
chemical solution will then return to the WEMS through the field flush valve and disposal hose and on
to the disposal drum (not into the pump tank). The meter will allow monitoring of the desired amount of
chemical to the drip tubing. Once the drip tubing is full of chemical solution and is returning to the
disposal drum, close field flush valve and wait for 60 seconds allowing chemical solution to permeate
- 15 -
RESTORING DRIP TUBE PERFORMANCE (CONT.)
the drip emitters. Turn off water pump and wait 45 minutes to allow the organics to be broken down in
the drip tubing and the emitters. Remove injector venturi from dilution container.
Before re-engaging the water pump, open the field flush valve completely. Engage the water pump
allowing the dissolved organics to be flushed into the disposal drum and not out the emitters. Monitor
the flush back to the disposal drum. At first the solution will be dark and murky. When the solution has
completely cleared up, close the field flush valve. This will allow the pressure to build in the drip field,
which will flush the dissolved organics in the emitters into the soil.
To see if the drip tubing has been fully restored, follow procedures in “ROUTINE INSPECTION &
MAINTENANCE” Section, page 14 (check #1 Performance Data). If tubing has not been fully restored,
repeat restoration steps above.
- 16 -
FLOW MONITORING PROCEDURES
1. Monitoring flow with the effluent meter
a) Water pump must be engaged, and WEMS adjusted to the desired parameters.
b) Using stopwatch, start time when red pointer is at 0. (Write down or make a mental
note of counter start point)
c) After 60 seconds, note red pointer position and counter reading.
d) The difference between (b) and (c) will give you total gallons per minute.
2. Measuring field flush flow in GPM
a) With effluent pump off, disconnect field flush drop pipe
within WEMS and connect field flush hose.
b) Direct field flush hose discharge back into pump tank
and start effluent pump. Place field flush hose into
measuring container and with stopwatch, measure to
determine flow in gallons per minute.
EXAMPLE ONE:
Remove flush hose after 60 seconds and measure
amount of effluent in container. This will give you GPM.
EXAMPLE TWO:
Remove flush hose after 15 seconds and measure amount of effluent in container.
Multiply the amount by four. This will give you GPM.
3. Measuring filter flush flow in GPM
a) With effluent pump running, place one-gallon measuring container under discharge in
treatment plant access riser.
b) Adjust flow with filter flush valve to achieve two GPM. To do this, fill one gallon
container in 30 seconds. (Use a stopwatch)
Note: On drip fields where total flow through drip emitters is less than 4 gpm, adjust filter flush
to one gallon per minute. In this situation, filling a one-gallon container in 60 seconds will
accomplish this.
- 17 -
SYSTEM INSTALLATION
The TurtleDrip™ WEMS is mounted in the pump tank of the treatment system. For installation of
the treatment system, refer to the pertinent installation manual. When you have installed the
system, you have installed the management system. All that is left is to install the drip dispersal
field and connect the field supply and return lines to the WEMS.
The TurtleDrip™ WEMS utilizes Geoflow WASTEFLOW ® PC Drip Tubing. Handle the drip tubing and
components with care. ROOTGUARD® is temperature sensitive. To assure a long life, store the drip
line out of direct sunlight in a cool place. This should be a consideration when installing the system in
very hot and sunny areas. Your system life span will be increased if it is buried an extra 2 – 3 inches
below the soil surface to avoid the warm temperature extremes.
1. All drip field construction should be done in accordance with local rules and regulations.
2. No utilities, cable wire, drain tile, etc. shall be located in the drip field.
3. Fence off entire drip field prior to any construction.
4. System is not to be installed when ground is wet or frozen.
5. Divert all down spouts and surface waters away from drip field or into curtain drains.
6. Excavation, filling and grading should have been finished before installation of the subsurface
drip system.
7. Be sure you have everything required for the installation before opening trenches. Preassemble as many sets of components as practical above ground and in a comfortable place.
Slip-lock adapters should be glued to PVC tees, the supply and return manifolds with tees can
be pre-assembled and used to mark the beginning and end of WASTEFLOW ® lines.
8. For particularly tough soil conditions, moisten the soil the day before opening trenches or
installing WASTEFLOW ®. Remember it is much easier to install the system in moist soil. The
soil should be moist but still should allow the proper operation of the installation equipment and
not cause smearing in the trenches. The soil surface should be dry so that the installation
equipment maintains traction.
9. Mark the four corners of the field. The top two corners should be at the same elevation and the
bottom two corners should be at a lower elevation. In freezing conditions the bottom dripline
must be higher than the supply and return line elevation at the pump tank.
- 18 -
10. Install a watertight pump tank. In freezing conditions the pump tank should be at the lowest
elevation of the entire system.
11. Determine the proper size for the supply and return manifolds. Refer to page 25.
12. Install the PVC supply line from the pump tank, up hill through one lower and one upper corner
stake of the dispersal field. Please refer to your state guidelines for depth of burial.
13. Paint a line between the two remaining corner stakes.
14. Install the Geoflow WASTEFLOW ® dripline from the supply line trench to the painted line,
approximately 6” to 10” deep as specified. Note: Some drip field designs will require supply
and return manifolds to be on the same side of drip field. In this case, flexible PVC U-bends will
be required to connect individual drip tube runs. Upon reaching the painted line, pull the plow
out of the ground and cut the dripline 1’ above the ground. Tape the end of the dripline to
prevent debris from entering. Continue this process until the required footage of pipe is
installed. Geoflow dripline must be spaced according to specification (2 ft. is standard). Depth
of burial of dripline must be consistent throughout the field. Take care not to get dirt into the
lines.
Installing flexible PVC U-bend assembly
Note: Do not bend polyethylene drip tubing in a “U” shape as kinking can occur.
a. Using flexible PVC piping (same diameter as tubing), cut to the proper length to form a
U-bend to connect two drip tubes together.
b. Glue a PVC adapter to each end of PVC U-bend
c. Using Teflon tape on slip-lock fitting threads, connect to PVC adapter.
d. Connect U-bend assembly to drip tubing.
15. Install the supply header with tees lined up at each Geoflow line. Hook up the Geoflow lines to
the supply header. Do not glue WASTEFLOW ® dripline.
Install slip-lock fittings
a. Hold the fitting in one hand and position the tubing with the other hand.
b. Move the sleeve back, and push the tubing onto the exposed stem as far as possible.
c. Push the sleeve out over the tubing and thread the sleeve onto tubing, as though
tightening a nut to a bolt. Hand tighten. Do not use tools.
16. Dig the return manifold ditch along the line painted on the ground and back to the pump tank.
On designs requiring supply and return manifolds to be in the same ditch, use painted line ditch
for PVC U-bends. Start the return manifold at the farthest end from the pump tank. The return
line must have slope back to the pump tank.
17. Install the return manifold and connect all of the Geoflow lines. Care must be taken not to kink
the dripline.
18. Install air vacuum breakers at the highest points in the dispersal field. Use pipe dope or Teflon
tape and hand tighten.
19. Connect the supply line to the TurtleDrip™ WEMS. Refer to “INITIAL START-UP &
OPERATION” Section, pages 9-13 to proceed.
- 19 -
SUBSURFACE DRIP INSTALLATION METHODS
Note: Disturbing the soil may effect the pore structure of the soil and create hydraulic conductivity
problems. Please consult with your soil scientist or professional engineer before making the installation
technique decisions.
INSERTION METHOD
a) Hand Trenching
b) Oscillating or vibrating
plow. Use the type that
inserts the dripline
directly in place, not one
that pulls the dripline
through the soil.
c) Trenching machine
d) Tractor with dripline
insertion tool – see
diagram below.
e) Tractor mounted 3-point
hitch insertion
implement
ADVANTAGES
Handles severe slopes and
confined areas
Uniform Depth
DISADVANTAGES
Slow
Labor intensive
Disrupts existing turf and ground
Back fill required
Fast in small to medium
Depth has to be monitored closely
installations
Cannot be used on steeper
Minimal ground disturbance
slopes (>20%)
No need to back fill the trench
Requires practice to set and
operate adequately
Tends to “stretch” pipe.
Shorter runs are required.
Faster than hand trenching
May use the 1” blade for
most installations
Uniform depth
Fast
Little damage to existing turf
because of the turf knife
Minimal ground disturbance
Does not stretch drip line
Adaptable to any tractor
Fastest. Up to four plow
attachments with reels
A packer roller dumps back
soil on top of the pipe
Slower, requires labor
Disrupts surface of existing turf
Back fill required
The installation tool is designed
specifically for this purpose.
Suitable for large installations only
- 20-
WINTERIZATION
Buried drip systems are not prone to frost damage because, in their design, vacuum release and drain
valves are provided. The dripline itself is made of polyethylene and not susceptible to freezing. It
drains through the emitters so will not be full of water after pumps are turned off. Please follow these
precautions:
1. Manifolds, supply lines and return lines must be sloped back to the pump tank. These lines
need to drain rapidly. Under extreme conditions return and supply manifolds must be insulated
or buried below frost line.
2. There should be no check valve at the pump.
3. Insulate WEMS, including zone dosing valves and air vacuum relief valves. Use closed-cell
insulation such as Perlite in a plastic bag.
4. In severe freezing conditions, use heat tape for zone dosing valves and air vacuum relief valves.
5. The top of air vacuum relief valves must be no higher than soil surface.
6. Using an index valve to split field zones, be sure it is capable of self-draining.
7. WASTEFLOW ® lines will self-drain through the emitters into the soil. If the cover crop over the
drip field is not yet adequately established, add hay or straw over the field for insulation.
8. Mark the valve box with a metal pin so you can find it in the winter when covered in snow.
9. Fields dosed with relatively small quantities of effluent are more likely to freeze than those
dosed with design quantities. If winter use is less than summer use, then only use proportional
number of fields to maintain water application rates in the field being dosed.
- 21 -
SYSTEM DESIGN
Overview of designing the entire drip system
Designing the drip system requires selecting the proper equipment, designing the drip field, and
correlating it all to work well together. The following is a step-by-step overview of
accomplishing this.
1. Selecting the proper treatment system.
a. Select the size of the pretreatment tank.
b. Select the size of the wastewater treatment plant.
c. Select the size of the pump tank.
Note: Refer to your state or local regulations.
d. Select the proper OPS (Operations Control Center). There are two models available,
model 50-32 and 50-32A.
Model 50-32: Select when using 1/2 HP pumps.
Model 50-32A: Select when using 1 HP pumps.
e. Specify the addition of the model AQ-200 Wastewater Effluent Management System
(WEMS). This will be added to the pump tank and incorporated into a 24” riser. This
WEMS model will function properly with flow rates between 2 and 50 GPM.
f. Select the proper spin plate for the Cyclone Filter in the WEMS. To do this, refer to page
40.
g. Select the proper pump size. Four pump sizes are available. Refer to the chart on page
26 & 27.
2. The proper drip tubing.
a.
WASTEFLOW ® PC with pressure compensating emitters.
WASTEFLOW ® PC can be used with all elevations. Emitters range in flow generally
between 1/2 to 1 gallon per hour. Emitter spacing is normally 2 feet but 1 ft. and 18” can
be used for specific site conditions.
Refer to pages 34-36.
b. Evaluate the site and determine where the drip field(s) will be placed.
When elevation in a drip field zone exceeds 6 feet, WASTEFLOW® PC
should be used as it can tolerate very large height variations.
c. Evaluate the soil to determine emitter flow range and spacing. In sandy, loamy and nonswell clay soils, 2 ft. emitter spacing and either 1/2 or 1 gph flow range is acceptable. In
heavy clay soils or very coarse sand where lateral movement of water is restricted,
emitter spacing of 1 ft. and either 1/2 or 1 gph flow range is used.
Note: Refer to pages 30 & 31.
3. Designing the drip field:
a. Select the area with careful consideration of the soil, the terrain and your State and
County regulations. Be sure the field is not in a flood plain or bottom of a slope where
excessive water may collect after rain. Surface water should be directed away from the
proposed field area.
b. To calculate the area required for your drip dispersal system, you must know the
quantity of effluent to be disposed of (in gallons per day) and the soil type. Use
WORKSHEET 1 on page 24 to determine hydraulic loading rate; total area required in
the drip field; emitter number, spacing and flow range; linear footage of drip tubing; type
of drip line; pressure in drip field; total flow to drip field in gpm; and size of manifolds.
c. Once this has been determined, sketch out the drip field keeping in mind that it has to fit
the site selected and that each drip tube run should be the same length to assure
uniform field flushing. Refer to pages 35-36 to determine individual drip tube run
- 22 -
lengths. Keep the runs as long as possible to minimize the quantity of field flush effluent
required. This is especially important in large drip fields where the pump selected is
being maximized. For sample drip field designs, refer to pages 44-45.
d. Designing for flow equalization within the drip field. Each drip tube run should be the
same length although one run can have more “U” bends than another. Follow the flow
from the pump tank through the supply line and into the drip field and back to the pump
tank via the return manifold. You will notice that the first drip tube run to leave the
supply manifold is the last to enter the return manifold. You will also notice that the last
drip tube run to leave the supply manifold is the first to enter the return manifold.
Following these guidelines assures equal flow through the entire drip field, which is
important for efficient field flushing. Supply and return manifolds may be at each end of
the drip field or on the same end of the drip field depending on the layout of the drip tube
runs.
Note: “U” bends should be made with flexible PVC pipe, not the drip tubing.
- 23 -
WORKSHEET 1 - DISPERSAL FIELD DESIGN FOR MULTIPLE ZONE SYSTEMS
Formula
Worksheet
A) Quantity of effluent to be dispersed per day
__________________ gpd
B) Soil type and hydraulic loading rate
i____________ soil type
ii ____________ hydraulic loading rate
(gal/sq.ft./day)
C) Determine the total Area required
in each drip field
___________________ square ft
D) Choose the spacing between each
WASTEFLOW® line and each
WASTEFLOW® emitter
i.
Minimum of two zones required
(GPD) divided by # of zones = A
Based on soil analysis.
Refer to State or Local regulations.
If none, refer to Table 1, page 30.
Divide gpd by hydraulic loading rate per zone. (A)/(Bii)
Standard spacing is 2 ft.
___________________ft. between
WASTEFLOW® lines
ii. ___________________ft. between
WASTEFLOW® emitters
E) How many linear feet of dripline in
the total area? Note: Round up to the nearest
equal number which allows for each drip tube run in
the field to be the same.
(Area / 2 ) for 2ft. line spacing. (C)/2.0 or
(Area / 1) for 1 ft. line spacing. (C)/1.0 or
(Area / 0.5) for 6” line spacing. (C)/0.5
__________________ft.
F) Calculate the number of emitters
__________________emitters
G) Pressure compensating dripline
(Linear ft. of dripline/2)for 2 ft emitter spacing. (E)/2 or
(Linear ft. of dripline/1)for 1 ft emitter spacing. (E)/1 or
(Linear ft. of dripline/0.5)for 6" emitter spacing (E)/0.5
See pages 34-36
®
q WASTEFLOW PC dripline
Standard pressure is 17 psi.
H) Determine Drip field pressure
WASTEFLOW® PC systems need between 15 and 45 psi
(23.1 ft. to 104 ft.) at the start of the drip field.
___________________ psi
WORKSHEET 1 CONT. ON NEXT PAGE
- 24 -
WORKSHEET 1 (cont.)
I) Determine feet of head required at drip field
___________________ ft. of head
J) What is the flow
rate per emitter? ______________gph / emitter
K) Determine total drip emitter flow for the field
Multiply drip field pressure (H) on page 24 by 2.31 to get
head required.
(H) x 2.31
See WASTEFLOW® PC specification chart, page 35-36.
__________________gph
Number of emitters (F) multiplied by the flow rate per
emitter (J) = total flow in gallons per hour. Gallons per
hour divide by 60 = gallons per minute.
__________________ gpm
Gph = (F) x (J)
L) Determine total flow for field flush
__________________ gpm
Gpm = gph/60
Calculate one gallon per minute for each drip tube run. This
should be done after design is complete.
M) Figure two_ gallons per minute for filter flush
N) Minimum pump capacity not including recycle
__________________ gpm
Add (K) (L) & (M) together to get minimum pump capacity
which will not include any recycle.
O) Select pipe diameters for manifolds and submains Add (K) & (L) together to get total flow in gpm.
See schedule 40 friction loss charts on page 38.
___________________inche(s)
Optimum velocity is between 2 and 5 ft. per second.
-25-
WORKSHEET 2 – PUMP SELECTION
Hydro-Action offers four pump models for it’s TurtleDrip™ to meet the varying demands of different site
conditions and drip field sizes; a 1/2 HP high head 15 gpm pump, a 1/2 HP high flow 30 gpm pump, a 1
HP high head 30 gpm pump, and a 1 HP high flow 50 gpm pump. Below are the pump curves. Use
pump curves along with Worksheet 2 to select pump.
Worksheet 2 (PUMP CALCULATIONS)
Formula
P) Minimum pump capacity not
including recycle
gpm
From (N) above
Q) Header pipe size
inches
From (O) above
R) Pressure loss in 100 ft. of pipe
psi
Refer to PVC charts on page 38.
S) Friction head in 100 ft. of pipe
ft. of head
Multiply psi from (R) above by 2.31
ft.
Number of ft.
ft.
Height changes from WEMS discharge
to drip field.
Add (Ti) + (Tii)
T) Static head
i) Height from pump discharge to tank
outlet
ii) Elevation increase or decrease
U) Total static head
ft.
(WORKSHEET 2 CONT. ON NEXT PAGE
-26-
-WORKSHEET 2 (cont.)
V) Friction head
i) Equivalent length of fittings
ft.
Estimate loss through fittings - usually
inconsequential for small systems.
ii) Distance from pump to field.
ft.
Measure length of sub-main
iii) Total equivalent length of pipe.
ft.
Add (Vi) + (Vii)
iv) Total effective feet.
ft.
(Viii) / 100 x (S)
v) Head required at drip field
ft.
See line (I) in Worksheet 1 above.
ft.
Use this fixed measurement for calculating
total head
ft.
Check with manufacturer for pressure loss
vi) Head loss through Cyclone filter
13
vii) Head loss through zone valves
If applicable
Multiply pressure loss in psi by 2.31 to
get head loss.
W) Minimum Total friction head
X)Minimum Total Dynamic Head
Y) Minimum pump gpm not
including recycle
ft.
ft.
gpm
Add (Viv) + (Vv) + (Vvi) + (Vvii)
Add (U) + (W)
From (N)
* Z) Choose the pump
___________________Model Number
*Use (x) and (y) in cooperation with the four pump curves on the previous page to choose pump.
Note: When (Y) is less than 15 gallons per minute, use 15 gpm when determining the pump.
This assures proper filter flow.
Za.) Maximum pump gpm @ total
dynamic head
_____________gpm
Using curve for selected pump, use “X” to
determine.
“Za” is used in spin plate selection on page 39.
-27-
MICRO DOSE TIMER
CALCULATING THE ON/OFF CYCLE
A) Quantity of effluent to be dispersed per day (daily flow). [See worksheet 1, page 24, “A)”.]
__________________ gpd
K) Determine total drip emitter flow for the field. [See worksheet 1, page 24, “K)”.]
__________________gpm
As a rule, each pump cycle (dose) needs to be 30 to 100 gallons. Large fields can be toward the higher number
and small fields can be toward the lower number. Choose the dose volume that suits your field size.
DOSE VOLUME:_____________gallons
Take your DOSE VOLUME # and divide it by { K) } and this will give you pump run time (on cycle).
*
TIMER ON CYCLE:_________________minutes
Take { A) } and divide by your DOSE VOLUME #, then add 2 to 4 extra doses as a safety factor for added use.
This will give you # of required doses per day.
# OF REQUIRED DOSES ______________
Take 1440 minutes (24 hours) and divide by the # OF REQUIRED DOSES, then subtract the
TIMER ON CYCLE #. This will give you the pump off time (off cycle).
*
TIMER OFF CYCLE:___________________minutes (Round down to whole #)
Note: To set timer, convert to hours and minutes.
Divide minutes by 60 which = hours.
*Timer on/off time
SETTING THE TIMER
A. Determine “ON” (#4) and “OFF” (#2) time and turn (using a
screw driver) the corresponding dial to the appropriate time unit.
B. See (#1), select the most appropriate time range by turning
the time range selector dial (using a screwdriver).
C. See (#3), set the “OFF” time by turning the outer dial (green
pointer) to the correct time setting.
D. See (#5), set the “ON” time by turning the inner dial (orange
pointer) to the correct time setting.
-28-
DESIGN PARAMETERS:
1. WATER QUALITY
Be aware of water conditions intrinsic to the area. If iron or iron bacteria is prevalent, please be sure to
eliminate it upstream of the drip system with ozone, ultraviolet or chemical treatment. Iron can be
recognized as orange stain on plumbing fixtures and may be treated prior to entering the facility.
2. SOIL APPLICATION DESIGN
Note: This section based on Subsurface Trickle Irrigation System for On-Site Wastewater Disposal
And Reuse by B. L. Carlile and A. Sanjines. The basis of the information is from the Texas Health
Department regulations. The rules in your County and State may vary.
The instantaneous water application rate of the system must not exceed the water absorption capacity
of the soil. A determination of the instantaneous water absorption capacity of the soil is difficult,
however, since the value varies with the water content of the soil. As the soil approaches saturation
with water, the absorption rate reduces to an equilibrium rate called the “saturated hydraulic
conductivity.” Wastewater application rates should be less than 10 percent of this saturated
equilibrium.
Even though the trickle irrigation system maximizes the soil absorption rate through the low rate of
application, thus keeping the soil below saturation, there will be times when the soil is at or near
saturation from rainfall events. The design must account for these periods and assume the worst case
condition of soil saturation. By designing for a safety factor of 10 or 12, based on the saturated
hydraulic conductivity, the system will be under-loaded most of the time but should function without
surface failure during extreme wet periods.
By applying wastewater slowly for a few hours daily, particularly if applied in “pulses” or short
doses several times per day near the soil surface where the soil dries the quickest would keep the soil
absorption rate at the highest value and minimize the potential of water surfacing in poor soil
conditions.
As stated previously, this design criterion will under-load the system at all times except when the soil
is at or near saturation from rainfall. If designing for an efficient irrigation system, the water supply
may not be sufficient to meet the demands of a lawn or landscaped area during peak water demand
months. This problem can be overcome by either of two solutions: add additional fresh-water make-up
to the system during the growing season to supply the needed water for plants in question, or split
the system into two or more fields with necessary valves and only use one of the fields during the
peak water demand months and alternate the fields during winter months or extremely wet periods,
or use both fields simultaneously if the pump capacity will so allow.
-29-
TABLE 1. MINIMUM SURFACE AREA GUIDELINES TO DISPOSE OF 100 GPD OF
SECONDARY TREATED EFFLUENT
Soil
Absorption
Rates
Soil
Class
Soil
Type
I
I
II
II
III
III
IV
IV
IV
Coarse sand
Fine sand
Sandy loam
loam
Clay loam
Silt - clay loam
Clay non-swell
Clay - swell
Poor clay
Design
Hydraulic Loading
Rate
Est. Soil
Hydraulic
Perc. Rate Conductivity gal/sq. ft. per
day
Minutes/in Inches/hr
<5
5 - 10
10 - 20
20 - 30
30 - 45
45 - 60
60 - 90
90 - 120
>120
>2
1.5 - 2
1.0 - 1.5
0.75 - 1.0
0.5 - 0.75
0.3 - 0.5
0.2 - 0.3
0.1 - 0.2
<0.1
1.400
1.200
1.000
0.700
0.600
0.400
0.200
0.100
0.075
Total
Area Required
sq. ft./100 gallons
per day
71.5
83.3
100.0
143.0
167.0
250.0
500.0
1000.0
1334.0
Dispersal field area calculation:
Total square feet area of dispersal field = Design flow divided by hydraulic loading rate
Table 1 shows the recommended hydraulic loading rates for various soil conditions, using a safety
factor of at least 12 with regard to the equilibrium saturated hydraulic conductivity rate of the soil.
These loading rates assume a treated effluent with BOD and TSS values of less than 30 mg/l is
produced in the treatment plant and that any anomalies such as iron bacteria have been
removed prior to dosing.
NOTES
1) The above chart is provided as a guide only. States and Counties may have regulations that
are different. Check your State guidelines and consult with your local health department.
2) Problems with drip dispersal fields occur when soils are misinterpreted. If in doubt, choose
the more restrictive soil type from the table above.
3) “Soil type” should be based on the most restrictive layer within two feet of the dripline. In
many soils 1-ft. vertical separation from the limiting layer has proven successful with secondary
treated effluent. Hydro-Action and Geoflow recommend you follow State and Local guidelines.
4) Table 1 above, with only minor modifications over the years, has served Geoflow well since
1990 with tens of thousands of systems operating successfully based upon this data. However,
thanks to work by Jerry Tyler and his associates at the University of Wisconsin-Madison soil
structure has become better understood and can now be used as a comprehensive tool to
determine optimal hydraulic loading rates.
-30-
Maximum Monthly Average
Soil Textures
Course sand or coarser
Loamy coarse sand
Sand
Loamy sand
Loamy sand
Fine sand
Fine sand
Loamy fine sand
Loamy fine sand
Very fine sand
Loamy very fine sand
Sandy loam
Sandy loam
Sandy loam
Loam
Loam
Loam
Silt loam
Silt loam
Silt loam
Sandy clay loam
Sandy clay loam
Sandy clay loam
Clay loam
Clay loam
Clay loam
Silty clay loam
Silty clay loam
Silty clay loam
Sandy clay
Sandy clay
Clay
Clay
Silty clay
Silty clay
Soil Structure
BOD5> 30mg/L<220mg/L
TSS>30 mg/L<150 mg/L
(gallons/ft2/day)
BOD5<30mg/L
TSS<30mg/L
(gallons/ft2/day)
N/A
N/A
N/A
Weak to strong
Massive
Moderate to strong
Massive or weak
Moderate to strong
Massive or weak
N/A
N/A
Moderate to strong
Weak, weak platy
Massive
Moderate to strong
Weak, weak platy
Massive
Moderate to strong
Weak, weak platy
Massive
Moderate to strong
Weak, weak platy
Massive
Moderate to strong
Weak, weak platy
Massive
Moderate to strong
Weak, weak platy
Massive
Moderate to strong
Massive to weak
Moderate to strong
Massive to weak
Moderate to strong
Massive to weak
0.4
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.2
0.3
0.2
0.3
0.2
0.2
0.2
0.2
0.2
0.1
0.2
0.2
0.1
0.2
0.1
0.0
0.2
0.1
0.0
0.2
0.1
0.0
0.2
0.1
0.0
0.1
0.0
0.1
0.0
0.1
0.0
1.6
1.4
1.2
1.2
0.7
0.9
0.6
0.9
0.6
0.6
0.6
0.9
0.6
0.5
0.8
0.6
0.5
0.8
0.3
0.2
0.6
0.3
0.0
0.6
0.3
0.0
0.6
0.3
0.0
0.3
0.0
0.3
0.0
0.3
0.0
TABLE 2 DRIP LOADING RATES CONSIDERING SOIL STRUCTURE.
Table 2 (above) is taken from the latest State of Wisconsin code and reflects Jerry Tyler’s work.
4. DEPTH AND SPACING
WASTEFLOW ® drip fields usually have emitter lines placed on 2 foot (600 mm) centers with a 2 foot
emitter spacing such that each emitter supplies a 4 sq. ft (0.36 m 2 ) area. These lines are best placed
at depths of 6-10 inches (150 - 250 mm) below the surface. This is a typical design for systems in
sandy and loamy soils with a cover crop of lawn grass. Closer line and/or emitter spacing of 12
inches is used on heavy clay soils or very coarse sands where lateral movement of water is restricted.
Using closer spacing should not reduce the size of the field.
5. SOIL LAYERS AND TYPES
The shallow depth of installation is an advantage of the subsurface drip field since the topsoil or
surface soil is generally the most biologically active and permeable soil for accepting water. The
topsoil also dries the fastest after a rainfall event and will maintain the highest water absorption rate.
The quality and homogeneity of the soil may present a problem. If the soil was not properly prepared
and there are pieces of construction debris, rocks and non-uniform soils, it is very difficult to obtain
uniform water spread. In many cases, particularly if the soil is compacted, soil properties can be
greatly improved by ripping and disking.
-31-
6. ADDING FILL TO THE DISPERSAL FIELD
Some dispersal sites require additional soil be brought in for agronomic reasons or to increase
separation distances from the restrictive layer. Restrictive layers stop or greatly reduce the rate of
downward water movement, as a result surfacing may occur during part of the year. In soils with
high water tables, treatment is minimized due to a lack of oxygen.
Placing drip lines in selected fill material above the natural soil provides an aerated zone for
treatment. Dispersal however still occurs in the natural soil and the field size must be based on the
hydraulic capability of the natural soil to prevent hydraulic overload.
Any time fill material is to be used; the area to receive the fill should have all organic material
removed or it must be incorporated into the natural soil to prevent an organic layer from forming and
restricting downward water movement.
The fill material should be applied in shallow layers with the first 4 to 6 inches incorporated into the
natural soil to prevent an abrupt textural interface. Continue this process until all fill has been
incorporated.
The fill area should be left crowned to shed surface water and may need diversion ditches or some
other devices to prevent surface water from infiltrating. The entire fill area should have a vegetative
cover to prevent erosion. If possible allow the fill to set at least seven to ten days before installing
WASTEFLOW ® PC dripline.
It is generally agreed that fill should not be used on slopes greater than 20%.
7. HIGH POINTS, SIPHONING AND SLOPES
A potential problem with buried drip lines is siphoning dirt into the emitters when the pump is
switched off. For this reason:
a. Drip lines should have a fairly constant slope. Run dripline along a contour.
b. At least one vacuum breaker should be installed at the highest point in each zone.
c. Avoid installing lines along rolling hills where you have high and low points along the
same line.
d. Drip lines should be connected at the end to a common return line.
8. EXCESSIVE ELEVATION DIFFERENCES
When elevation in a drip field zone exceeds 6 feet, use WASTEFLOW® PC tubing.
WASTEFLOW® PC: WASTEFLOW ® PC can tolerate very large height variations provided the
pressure remains within the 7 to 60 psi range, and preferably within 10 to 45 psi.
At the end of each dosing cycle, water in the dripline will flow down to the bottom lines within the drip
zone. This is called “lowhead drainage”. On a slope site Geoflow recommends installing short manifolds
with fewer lines and longer dripline runs. If unsure, a maximum of 1500 ft of Geoflow dripline within
each zone or sub-zone can be used as a rule of thumb. Do not exceed 5 lines in a multiple zones or subzone with a slope greater than 10%.
-32-
9. HILLY SITE
Concentrate drip lines at the top of the hill with wider spacing towards the bottom. In the case of
compound slopes consult a professional irrigation designer or engineer.
10. MULTIPLE ZONES
Drip dispersal fields can be divided into multiple zones or sub zones with solenoid valves or index
valves for the following reasons:
a. Steep slopes with a risk of lowhead drainage can be subdivided to distribute the water
at system shutdown more uniformly in the field.
b. Smaller zones reduce the required flow per minute which consequently reduces the
size of the pump, supply and return lines.
c. If the dispersal field is located in multiple areas on the property.
d. To accommodate varying soils or vegetation on a single site.
Note. On multiple zones, a single TurtleDrip™ WEMS can be used for filtration and flushing
by placing zone valves downstream of the WEMS. All zones would require a check valve on the
individual flush lines upstream of each line joining a common flush line to keep flush water from
one zone entering any other zone during the flush cycle. (See Geoflow Design Detail No. 588)
******************
11. REUSE FOR IRRIGATION
A good vegetative cover is an advantage to prevent erosion from the field and utilize water applied to
the rooting zone. Sites should be planted or seeded immediately after installation. Grasses are
particularly suitable for this application. Most lawn grasses will use 0.25" to 0.35" (6.3-8.9mm) of
water per day during the peak-growing season. This calculates to be about 0.16 to 0.22 gal/ft 2 /day.
Over-seeding lawns with winter ryegrass can continue this use efficiency continued through much of
the year. For vegetation using 0.16 to 0.22 gal/ft 2 /day by evapotranspiration, a sewage flow of 1000
gallons per day would supply the water needs of a landscaped area of 4600 to 6400 sq. ft. without
having to add fresh water. For areas larger than this, the plants will suffer water stress during the hot
months unless additional fresh water is applied.
12. WATER APPLICATION FORMULA
To determine the rate of application for various drip irrigation designs, use the following formula:
Water application (inches per hour) = (231 x (emitter flow rate gph)) / ((Emitter spacing inches) x
(dripline spacing inches))
Example: Dripline with 1.3 gph flow rate emitters spaced 24" apart and dripline spaced 24" apart.
Water application = (231x1.3)/(24x24) = 0.52 inches of water per hour.
-33-
WASTEFLOW® DRIPLINE
DESCRIPTION
The flexible 1/2" polyethylene dripline has large
emitters regularly spaced in the line. With the
dripline hidden about six inches below ground
effluent is distributed slowly and uniformly,
reducing ponding, even in difficult soils and hilly
terrain.
WASTEFLOW® is built to last. It is
guaranteed to be trouble-free from root intrusion
with built-in ROOTGUARD® protection, and
the dripline wall is protected from organic growth
with a bactericide lining.
WASTEFLOW® provides uniform distribution.
The emitters have a Coefficient of variation (Cv)
of less than .05.
WHEN TO USE WASTEFLOW® PC
Geoflow, Inc. offers WASTEFLOW ® dripline in
pressure compensating (WASTEFLOW ® PC)
We recommend that WASTEFLOW ® PC be used
when the advantages are of substantial economic
value.
a) Very long runs.
b) Steep slopes. Systems should be designed
for the dripline lateral to follow the con-tour.
c) Rolling terrain. If the difference in height
from trough to peak exceeds six feet then
WASTEFLOW ® PC should be used.
*Vacuum relief valves must be placed at the
top of each rise.
Different flow rates, dripline diameters and
emitter spacing can be special ordered.
Use 600 series compression adapters or spinloc
fittings to connect the dripline to PVC pipe.
ROOTGUARD® PROTECTION
WASTEFLOW® dripline features patented
ROOT GUARD® technology to prevent roots
from clogging the emission points. The preemergent, Treflan®, is bound into
WASTEFLOW® emitters when they are molded
to divert roots from growing into the emitter
outlet. The system is guaranteed
against root intrusion for 10 years.
BACTERICIDE PROTECTION
Ultra-Fresh DM50 is incorporated into the inner
lining and emitters of WASTEFLOW® dripline to
prevent bacteria from forming and eliminates the
need to scour the tubing. It is a tin based
formula that defeats the energy system of
microbial cells.
WASTEFLOW is manufactured under US Patents
5332160,5116 414 and Foreign equivalents.
WASTEFLOW is a registered trademark of A.I.Innovations.
TREFLAN is a registered trademark of Dow Agro Chemicals.
-34-
WASTEFLOW® PC 0.53 GPH
®
WFPC16-2-24 WASTEFLOW PC 24" / .53gph
®
WFPC16-2-18 WASTEFLOW PC 18" / .53gph
®
WFPC16-2-12 WASTEFLOW PC 12" / .53gph
Alternative spacing, flow rates and diameters
available upon request
Pressure
WFPC16-2-24
WPFPC16-2-18
WFPC16-2-12
Head
7-60 psi* 16-139 ft.
0.53 gph
Maximum Length of Run vs. Pressure
®
Wasteflow PC
Allows a minimum of 10 psi in the line
*Recommended operating pressure is 10-45 psi
Kd = 2.070
WFPC WFPC WFPC
Pressure Head 16-2-24 16-2-18 16-2-12
10 psi 23.10 ft.
—
—
—
15 psi 34.65 ft. 321 ft.
260 ft.
174 ft.
20 psi 46.20 ft. 423 ft.
330 ft.
228 ft.
25 psi
57.75 ft 478 ft.
377 ft.
260 ft.
30 psi 69.30 ft. 535 ft.
415 ft.
288 ft.
35 psi
80.85 ft 576 ft.
448 ft.
313 ft.
40 psi 92.40 ft. 613 ft.
475 ft.
330 ft.
45 psi 103.95 ft 651 ft.
501 ft.
354 ft.
50 psi* 115.50 ft 675 ft.
523 ft.
363 ft.
55 psi* 127.50 ft 700 ft.
544 ft.
377 ft.
60 psi* 138.60 ft 727 ft.
563 ft.
403 ft.
WASTEFLOW® PC Specification
The dripline shall consist of nominal sized onehalf inch linear low density polyethylene tubing,
with turbulent flow, drip emitters bonded to the
inside wall. The drip emitter flow passage shall
be 0.032" x 0.045" square. The tubing shall
have an outside diameter (O.D.) of
approximately .64-inches and an inside
diameter (I.D.) of approximately .55-inches.
The tubing shall consist of three layers; the
inside layer shall be a bactericide protection,
the middle layer shall be black and the outside
layer shall be purple striped for easy
identification. The dripline shall have emitters
regularly spaced 24" (or 18" or 12”) apart. The
pressure compensating emitters shall be
molded from virgin polyethylene resin with a
silicone rubber diaphragm. The pressure
compensating emitters shall have nominal
discharge rates of 0.53 gallons per hour. The
emitters shall be impregnated with Treflan ® to
inhibit root intrusion for a minimum period of
ten years and shall be guaranteed by the
manufacturer to inhibit root intrusion for this
period. 0.53 gph WASTEFLOW ® PC pressure
compensating dripline shall be Geoflow model
number WFPC16-2-24 (or WFPC16-2-18 or
WFPC16-2-12)
-35-
WASTEFLOW® PC 1.02 GPH
®
WFPC16-4-24 WASTEFLOW PC 24" / 1.02gph
®
WFPC16-4-12 WASTEFLOW PC 12" / 1.02gph
Alternate spacing available upon request.
Flow Rate vs. Pressure
Pressure
Head
7 – 60 psi*
16 – 139 ft.
Dripline
WFPC16-4-24
WFPC16-4-12
1.02 gph
Maximum Length of Run vs. Pressure
Allows a minimum of 10 psi in the line
*Recommended operating pressure is 10 - 45 psi
Kd = 2.070
Pressure Head
WFPC WFPC WFPC
16-4-24 16-4-18 16-4-12
10 psi 23.10 ft.
—
—
—
15 psi 34.65 ft.
211 ft.
172 ft.
115 ft.
20 psi 46.20 ft. 265 ft.
210 ft.
146 ft.
25 psi
315 ft.
242 ft.
171 ft.
30 psi 69.30 ft. 335 ft.
266 ft.
180 ft.
35 psi
379 ft.
287 ft.
199 ft.
40 psi 92.40 ft. 385 ft.
305 ft.
211 ft.
45 psi 103.95 ft 429 ft.
321 ft.
222 ft.
50 psi* 115.50 ft 431 ft.
334 ft.
232 ft.
55 psi* 127.50 ft 449 ft.
347 ft.
240 ft.
60 psi* 138.60 ft 465 ft.
360 ft.
249 ft.
57.75 ft
80.85 ft
WASTEFLOW® PC 1.02 GPH Specification
The dripline shall consist of nominal sized onehalf inch linear low-density polyethylene tubing,
with turbulent flow, drip emitters bonded to the
inside wall. The drip emitter flow passage shall
be 0.032" x 0.045" square. The tubing shall
have an outside diameter (O.D.) of
approximately .64-inches and an inside
diameter (I.D.) of approximately .55-inches. The
tubing shall consist of three layers; the inside
layer shall be a bactericide protection, the
middle layer shall be black and the outside
layer shall be purple striped for easy
identification. The dripline shall have emitters
regularly spaced 24" (or 12") apart. The
pressure compensating emitters shall be
molded from virgin polyethylene resin with a
silicone rubber diaphragm. The pressure
compensating emitters shall have nominal
discharge rates 1.02 gallons per hour. The
emitters shall be impregnated with Treflan ® to
inhibit root intrusion for a minimum period of ten
years and shall be guaranteed by the
manufacturer to inhibit root intrusion for this
period. 1.02 gph WASTEFLOW ® PC pressure
compensating dripline shall be Geoflow model
number WFPC16-4-24 (or WFPC16-4-12).
-36-
AIR VACUUM BREAKERS
Description
Air Vacuum Breakers are installed at the high
points of the WASTEFLOW ® drip field to keep
soil from being sucked into the drip emitters due
to back siphoning or backpressure. This is an
absolute necessity with underground drip
systems. They are also used for proper draining
of the supply and return manifolds in freezing
conditions. Use one on the high end of the
supply manifold and one at the high point of the
flush manifold and any other high points in the
system.
- Instant and continuous vacuum relief
- Non-continuous air relief
- Seals tight at 5 psi
- Durable, weather resistant
- Readily accessible pressure test point
- Easy to install
- Removable dirt cover
- Maximum flow of 50 gpm
Air Vacuum Specification
The air vacuum relief valve provides instant
and continuous vacuum relief and noncontinuous air relief. Both the body and the
removable dirt cover shall be constructed of
molded plastic. The body and the dirt cover
shall be connected with a 3/4 inch hose thread.
The ball shall be constructed of low density
plastic and the internal seat shall be
constructed of vinyl. The air vacuum relief valve
shall seal at 5 psi. Inlet size shall be a 1 inch
male pipe thread. The air vent shall be HydroAction item number 700004.
-37-
PVC 40 FRICTION LOSS CHART (Pounds per square inch (psi) per 100 ft. of pipe)
1/2”
Flow
GPM
Velocity
FPS
1
2
3
4
5
6
8
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
50
60
70
1.05
2.11
3.17
4.22
5.28
6.33
8.44
10.55
3/4”
Velocity
FPS
6
8
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
50
60
70
80
90
100
125
150
175
200
0.57
0.76
0.96
1.43
1.91
2.39
2.87
3.35
3.82
4.30
4.78
5.74
6.69
7.65
8.60
9.56
11.95
1 1/4”
1 1/2”
Pressure
Pressure
Pressure
Pressure
Pressure
Velocity
Velocity
Velocity
Velocity
Drop
Drop
Drop
Drop
Drop
FPS
FPS
FPS
FPS
PSI
PSI
PSI
PSI
PSI
0.43
1.55
3.27
5.57
8.42
11.81
20.10
30.37
2” Pipe
Flow
GPM
1”
0.60
1.2
1.8
2.41
3.01
3.61
4.81
6.02
9.02
0.11
0.39
0.83
1.42
2.15
3.01
5.12
7.73
16.37
2 1/2” Pipe
0.37
0.74
1.11
1.48
1.86
2.23
2.97
3.71
5.57
7.42
9.28
11.14
0.03
0.12
0.26
0.44
0.66
0.93
1.58
2.39
5.06
8.61
13.01
18.22
3” Pipe
0.43
0.64
0.86
1.07
1.29
1.72
2.15
3.22
4.29
5.36
6.43
7.51
8.58
9.65
10.72
0.03
0.07
0.11
0.17
0.24
0.42
0.63
1.33
2.27
3.42
4.80
6.38
8.17
10.16
12.35
4” Pipe
0.47
0.63
0.79
0.95
1.26
1.58
2.36
3.15
3.94
4.73
5.52
6.30
7.09
7.88
9.46
11.03
0.03
0.05
0.08
0.11
0.20
0.30
0.63
1.07
1.63
2.27
3.01
3.88
4.80
5.83
8.17
10.87
6” Pipe
Pressure
Pressure
Pressure
Pressure
Pressure
Velocity
Velocity
Velocity
Velocity
Drop
Drop
Drop
Drop
Drop
FPS
FPS
FPS
FPS
PSI
PSI
PSI
PSI
PSI
0.03
0.06
0.09
0.19
0.32
0.48
0.67
0.89
1.14
1.42
1.73
2.42
3.22
4.13
5.13
6.23
9.42
0.54
0.67
1.01
1.34
1.67
2.01
2.35
2.64
3.01
3.35
4.02
4.69
5.36
6.03
6.70
8.38
10.05
0.02
0.04
0.08
0.13
0.20
0.28
0.38
0.48
0.60
0.73
1.02
1.36
1.74
2.16
2.63
3.97
5.56
0.65
0.87
1.08
1.30
1.52
1.73
1.95
2.17
2.60
3.04
3.47
3.91
4.34
5.42
6.51
7.59
8.68
0.03
0.05
0.07
0.10
0.13
0.17
0.21
0.25
0.35
0.47
0.60
0.75
0.91
1.38
1.93
2.57
3.40
0.88
1.01
1.13
1.26
1.51
1.76
2.02
2.27
2.52
3.15
3.78
4.41
5.04
0.03
0.04
0.05
0.07
0.09
0.12
0.16
0.20
0.24
0.37
0.51
0.68
0.90
1.11
1.39
1.67
1.94
2.22
0.03
0.05
0.07
0.09
0.12
Optimum velocity is 2 – 5 ft. per second. The pipe is Schedule 40.
ASTM D 1785, D2672, D1784 Cell Class 12454-A
-38-
CYCLONE FILTER
CYCLONE FILTER PROCESS DESCRIPTION
Wastewater effluent enters the filter via a 1 1/2” inlet
and is forced through a directional nozzle plate onto
the inside of the stainless steel screen. This cyclone
action rotates debris down the screen wall to the large
debris holding basin. Debris is flushed out a 3/4”
flushing outlet located at the bottom of the holding
basin. Cyclone action keeps more of the screen area
clean minimizing pressure losses due to excess
debris or solids buildup. For optimum self-cleaning
action, the Cyclone Filter should be operated with the
proper spin plate.
Filter Housing: Two-piece threaded housing with O-ring seal. Molded from high heat and chemical
resistant ABS plastic. 3/4” flushing outlet molded into housing.
Filter Screen: All stainless steel providing 60.8 sq. in. of filtration area. Outer support shell is woven
stainless steel wire; inner screen is specially woven stainless steel cloth. Inner and outer screens are
soldered together. Screen collars molded from vinyl for long life and durability. Screen is 150 mesh /
100 micron. Maximum recommended working pressure is 80 PSI. Maximum recommended flow with
4-hole spin plate installed is 55 gpm.
Spin Plates: One of three spin plates is incorporated into the filter (2-hole, 3-hole, 4-hole) depending
on the design flow of the drip system.
PLATE GUIDELINE
PUMP
PLATE
½ HP High Head
2 HOLE
½ HP High Flow
* 2-3 HOLE
1 HP High Head
* 2-3 HOLE
1 HP High Flow
* 3-4 HOLE
When selecting spin plates for different pump sizes, the above
chart is a guideline.
SPIN PLATE SELECTION – OPTIMUM FLOW RANGE
SPIN PLATE
2 HOLE
3 HOLE
4 HOLE
MINIMUM GPM
15 gpm
30 gpm
40 gpm
MAXIMUM GPM
28 gpm
42 gpm
50 gpm
Note: To match proper spin plate to selected pump, refer to Worksheet 2 on page 27. Use “Za” (pump
gpm) and the chart above to determine spin plate.
-39-
WORKSHEET 3- AS BUILT SYSTEM DESCRIPTION.
1. Sitename:________________________________________________________________
2. Site address including State:_________________________________________________
3. Drip field designed by: ______________________________________________________
4. Drip field installed by: ____________________________________________________________
5. Date of installation: ___________________________
6. Daily design flow: _____________________________gpd.
8. Soil type: ____________________________________
9. Pretreatment tank size _________________________
10. Treatment plant size___________________________
11. Pump tank size_______________________________
12. OPS Model__________________________________
13. Model # of Wastewater Effluent Management System_____________________________
14. Spin plate in Cyclone Filter______________________
15. Effluent pump________________________________
16. WASTEFLOW ® PC dripline model # and/or description_____________________________
17. Size (diameter) of supply manifold________________inches
18. Depth of supply manifold_______________________inches
19. Size (diameter) of return manifold________________inches
20. Depth of return manifold________________________inches
21. Number of zones in dripfield: ________________________________. If more than one
zone, please describe valve (size, manufacturer, part number, type):_________________
22. Amount of dripline installed in each zone:
Zone 1_______ ft.
Zone 2_______ ft.
Zone 3 _______ft.
Zone 4_______ ft.
23. Flow rate per zone:
Zone 1______ gpm.
Zone 3______ gpm.
Zone 4_______ gpm.
Zone 2______ gpm.
24. Depth dripline installed below grade: _________________inches
25. #1 Performance data (System Test)
Meter gpm ____________________
Field Supply psi_________________
#2 Performance Data (Normal Operation)
Meter gpm ________________________
Field Supply psi_____________________
Field Return psi ____________________
Filter psi ____________in ___________out
Filter Flush gpm ____________________
Field Flush gpm ____________________
26. Was any fill material supplied on the drip field?__________________
If “yes”, describe fill quality and quantity added.
______________________________________________________________________
27. Please provide owner with as-built system drawings, including but not limited to direction of
drip lines, location of air vents, pressure regulators and alternating valves if applicable.
-40-
HOME OWNERS GUIDE FOR CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF DRIP DISPERSAL FIELD
A drip dispersal system has been installed on your property for the subsurface dispersal of the effluent
from your home.
The drip dispersal system consists of a series of 1/2" diameter drip tubing installed at a shallow depth
of 8-10" below the ground surface. It is designed to effectively disperse of the treated effluent in the
ground with a combination of soil absorption and plant uptake. Your drip dispersal system will function
for many years with only minimal maintenance being required, provided the following recommendations
are followed:
q Establish landscaping (preferably a grass cover) immediately. This will stabilize the soil and
allow for the vegetation to take up the water.
q Do not discharge sump pumps, footing drains or other sources of clear water to the system,
except for the effluent discharge from your treatment system.
q Maintain all plumbing fixtures to prevent excess water from entering the dispersal system.
q Do not drive cars, trucks or other heavy equipment over the drip dispersal field (or the
treatment unit itself). This can damage the drip components or the soil and cause the system to
mal-function. Lawn mowers, rubber wheeled garden tractors and light equipment can be driven
over the drip field.
q Do not drive tent stakes, golf putting holes, croquet hoops etc., into the dispersal field
q Contact your service company if your high water alarm should sound. The pump chamber is
sized to allow additional storage after the high water alarm sounds but you should refrain from
excessive water usage (i.e., laundry) until the system has been checked.
q After a temporary shut down due to a vacation or other reason, the treatment plant ahead of
the drip field filter, initially may not function effectively, resulting in the filter blocking.
Contact your service company if you notice any areas of excessive wetness in the field. In most cases,
this is usually caused by a loose fitting or a nicked dripline and can be easily repaired.
Note: There may be some initial wetness over the driplines following the system’s installation. This
should cease once the ground has settled and a grass cover is established.
-41-
TROUBLE SHOOTING GUIDE
Symptom: High water alarm activates periodically (1-2 times/week). During other times the
water level in the pump chamber is at a normal level.
Possible cause: Peak water usage (frequently laundry day) is causing a temporary high water
condition to occur.
Remedy: Set timer to activate the pump more frequently. Be sure to not exceed the total
design flow. To avoid this, reduce the duration of each dose.
Remedy: Provide a larger pump tank to accommodate the peak flow periods.
Symptom: High water alarm activates during or shortly after periods of heavy rainfall.
Possible cause: Infiltration of ground/surface water into system.
Remedy: Identify sources of infiltration, such as tank seams, pipe connections, risers, etc.
Repair as required.
Symptom: High water alarm activates intermittently, including times when it is not raining or when
laundry is not being done.
Possible cause: A toilet or other plumbing fixture may be leaking sporadically but not
continuously. Check water meter readings for 1-2 weeks to determine if water usage is
unusually high for the number of occupants and their lifestyle. Also determine if water usage is
within design range.
Remedy: Identify and repair fixture.
Symptom: High water alarm activates continuously on a new installation (less than 3 months
of operation). Inspection of the filter indicates it is plugged with a gray colored growth. Water usage is
normal.
Possible cause: Slow start-up of treatment plant resulting in the presence of nutrient in the
effluent sufficient to cause a biological growth on the filter. This is typical of lightly loaded
treatment plants that receive a high percentage of gray water (i.e., from showers and laundry).
Remedy: Remove and clean filter cartridge in a bleach solution. Add a gallon of household
bleach to pump tank to oxidize organics. Contact treatment plant manufacturer for advice on
speeding up the treatment process possibly by “seeding” the plant with fresh activated sludge
from another treatment plant.
Symptom:
Water surfaces continuously at one or more isolated spots, each one-foot or more in
diameter.
Possible cause: Damaged drip line or a loose connection is allowing water be discharged under
pressure and therefore at a much greater volume than intended.
Remedy: Dig up drip line. Activate pump and locate leak. Repair as required.
Possible cause: If water is at base of slope, can be caused by low-head drainage.
Remedy: Install check valves and air vents in the manifolds to redistribute water in the system
after pump is turned off. This is not advised for freezing climates where manifold drainage is
required.
-42-
Symptom: A portion of the drip field closest to the feed manifold is saturated while the rest of the
field is dry.
Possible cause: Insufficient pump pressure. A pressure check at the return manifold indicates
pressure of less than 10 psi.
Remedy: Check filter and pump intake to insure they are not plugged. If they are, clean as
required.
Remedy: Leaks in the system may be resulting in loss of pressure. Check for water leaks in
connections and fittings or wet spots in the field. Also check air vents to insure they are closing
properly. Repair as necessary.
Remedy: Pump is worn or improperly sized. Pressure at feed manifold in less than 15 psi.
Verify pressure requirements of system and provide a new or larger pump. As an alternate
approach, the drip field may need to be divided into two or more zones.
Possible cause: The duration of each dose is of insufficient length to allow the drip field to
become pressurized before the pump shuts off (or runs for only a brief time before turning off).
Remedy: Increase the pump run time and decrease the frequency of doses. Always calculate
(or observe during field operation) how long the system takes to fully pressurize and add this
time to the design dosing duration.
Symptom: High water alarm begins to activate continuously after a long period (1-2 years) of normal
operation. Inspection of the filter indicates it is plugged with a heavy accumulation of sludge.
Possible cause: A buildup of solids in the pump tank due to carryover from the treatment plant.
Remedy: Replace the filter cartridge with a clean cartridge. Check the pump tank and if an
accumulation of solids is noted, pump the solids out of the pump tank. Also, check the operation
of the treatment plant to insure it is operating properly.
Symptom: Water surfaces at several spots in drip field during dosing periods. Installation is recent,
less than 6 months of usage and the soil is a moderate to heavy clay. Possibly, the installation was
completed using a non-vibratory plow.
Possible cause: Smearing of the soil may have occurred during installation of drip line. Also, the
“cut” resulting from the installation allows an easy path for the water to surface during dosing.
Remedy: In most cases the sod will compact naturally around the drip line and the surfacing will
diminish and ultimately cease. To help, reduce the duration of each dose and increase the
number of doses/day. Also, it will help to seed the area to encourage the development of a good
root zone.
Symptom: Entire area of drip field is wet, soft and spongy. It appears to be totally saturated with
water. Situation occurs during dry season when there is little rainfall.
Possible cause: Water being discharged to drip field exceeds design. Excess water may be a
result of infiltration, plumbing leaks or excessive water usage.
Remedy: Check water meter, elapsed time meter, pump counter; override counter or high level
alarm counter to determine if water usage is in excess of design. Check for leaks or infiltration.
Repair leaks as required. Reduce water usage by installing water saving fixture.
Remedy: If water usage cannot be reduced, enlarge drip field as required.
Possible cause: Area of drip field was inadequately sized and is too small.
Remedy: Provide additional soil analysis to verify sizing and enlarge as required.
-43-
This Page Intentionally Left Blank................................
Special thanks to Geoflow for their contributions to this manual.
WASTEFLOW is manufactured under US Patents
5332160,5116 414 and Foreign equivalents.
WASTEFLOW is a registered trademark of A.I. Innovations.
TREFLAN is a registered trademark of Dow AgroSciences
ROOTGUARD is a registered trademark of A.I. Innovations
-45-
">