BioMicrobics MicroFAST system - blower down for several months

[kegman0406]

I live in a residential condominium with a total of 4 units sharing a common septic. We have a MicroFAST system installed that has an external blower unit. A couple of months ago the blower unit failed. We called our septic maintenance company and they informed us that the blower unit is really unnecessary and that it was no problem leaving it off. They are attempting to fix the unit, but it is not a priority for them. They keep insisting that we shouldn't worry and that this poses no issues to our system.

I'd like to understand whether or not there is any truth to this statement. I have read the manufacturers online documentation and it would seem that we should be using the blower while the septic is in use - which it has been for the last 2 months.

Can someone please let me know whether or not its 'ok' to operate without the blower for an extended period of time. If it isn't, then what damage could occur to our system?

 

[KULTULZ]

It is as simple as this... (IMO)

BLOWER OPERATION - DO NOT turn off the blower (unless testing alarm). Treatment quality and drain field life could be reduced. Check the blower for proper function. Clean the blower’s inlet air filter element. The blower can be operated by a timer in certain situations.

If the blower is malfunctioning please refer to the “Troubleshooting Guide” or Blower Replacement Section located in this manual.


You have an aerobic system designed to operate in a set fashion. Without the air ingestion, the system cannot operate as designed.

http://www.biomicrobics.com/products/fast-wastewater-treatment-systems/microfast/

The maintenance company needs to be replaced with a company that is competent and caring and performs necessary repair and maintenance as the contract and component warranty/maintenance schedule calls for.

DAMN something like this pi$$es me off!

 

[kegman0406]

Thanks for the information and I would agree that we have to find a different maintenance company. I am now wondering how much damage has been done and whether or not it can easily be repaired.

It is as simple as this... (IMO)



You have an aerobic system designed to operate in a set fashion. Without the air ingestion, the system cannot operate as designed.

http://www.biomicrobics.com/products/fast-wastewater-treatment-systems/microfast/

The maintenance company needs to be replaced with a company that is competent and caring and performs necessary repair and maintenance as the contract and component warranty/maintenance schedule calls for.

DAMN something like this pi$$es me off!

 

[kappitts]

Complain to your local county or State waste water authorities. This is a huge issue and there are important reasons why this unit has a blower.

 

[KULTULZ]

I am now wondering how much damage has been done and whether or not it can easily be repaired.

You may want to study the manufacturers website (theory) as all should be explained there.

As for failure over the long term, the damage may or may not be little. It all depends on multiple factors (such as its' being a multi-family system). It will revert to a non-aerobic system and the tank may need to be pumped more frequently.

As previously suggested, contacting the local heath authorities might be warranted. It would then be easier to hold the maintenance company liable for any negligence (IMO).