Aerobic Treatment Units in Brandon, FL
Have an aerobic septic system or advanced treatment unit? We connect you with one independent local company that services them.
An aerobic treatment unit (ATU) is a septic system that pumps air into the wastewater so oxygen-loving bacteria can break it down more thoroughly than a conventional tank. ATUs need more ongoing care than a standard system: the air pump (aerator) runs all the time, there are alarms and sometimes chlorinators or other parts, and Florida generally expects these systems to be maintained on a regular schedule.
Safety first: never climb into or lean into a septic tank, even an empty one. Tanks can hold hydrogen sulfide, methane, and air with too little oxygen, and people have died trying to rescue someone who went in first. Keep lids secured and keep children and pets away from open or damaged lids. If sewage is coming up inside the home, stop using water and keep everyone away from it.
Why do some Brandon-area homes have an ATU?
ATUs and other advanced treatment systems are often used where a conventional system would not meet requirements, such as small lots, poor soils, a high water table, or sites near surface water. Some are installed when an older system is repaired or replaced and the site can't support a conventional drainfield. If you're not sure what type of system you have, look for an air pump that hums, an alarm box, or more than one lid; your permit records will also say.
How does an aerobic septic system work?
- Pretreatment: wastewater first settles in a chamber where solids separate, similar to a conventional tank.
- Aeration: an air pump pushes air into the treatment chamber, where bacteria break down the waste.
- Clarification: remaining solids settle out before the treated water moves on.
- Disposal: the treated water goes to a drainfield or other approved disposal area. Some systems include disinfection.
Maintenance and operating permits in Florida
Florida's onsite sewage rules have generally required ATUs and other performance-based systems to have an operating permit and to be maintained by an approved maintenance entity under a maintenance agreement. Details, inspection frequencies, and the agency handling them can change. In 2021, oversight of Florida's onsite sewage (septic) program moved from the Florida Department of Health to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP). How applications are handled locally can change, so confirm the current process with the FDEP Onsite Sewage Program before repair or replacement work starts. If you just bought a home with an ATU, ask the seller or the prior maintenance company for the current maintenance agreement and permit status.
Common ATU problems
- Air pump failure: the most common issue. If the pump stops, the system may start to smell like a conventional tank and treatment drops.
- Alarms: high-water alarms, air pressure alarms, or power issues. See septic alarms and lift pumps.
- Odors: strong sewage smells often mean the aerator or diffusers aren't working.
- Solids buildup: ATUs still need periodic pumping of solids, on a schedule set by the manufacturer and service provider.
- Storm and power issues: power outages stop the aerator, and flooding can affect parts.
Tips for living with an ATU
- Never unplug or switch off the aerator to stop the humming sound.
- Keep the area around the unit clear so air vents and lids are accessible.
- Avoid harsh chemicals, antibacterial products in large amounts, and medications down the drain, which can harm treatment bacteria.
- Keep records of every service visit and pump-out.
- Know your maintenance company's renewal date so the agreement doesn't lapse.
Repair, replace, or switch maintenance companies?
An aging ATU may need a new aerator, new diffusers, or control panel parts. If the whole unit is failing, replacement may require a permit and a site evaluation. If you're unhappy with your current maintenance provider, read the agreement for notice and transfer terms before switching.
What affects the cost?
We don't publish prices. Service agreements, parts, pump-outs, and repairs vary by manufacturer, model, and provider. Ask for written pricing for both the maintenance agreement and repairs.
Hiring tips
Ask whether the company is approved to maintain your brand of ATU and whether it holds the state registration or permits needed for ATU maintenance in Florida, then confirm with the FDEP Onsite Sewage Program. Ask for proof of liability insurance.
Frequently asked questions
Is an aerobic septic system the same as a regular septic tank?
No. An ATU adds air to the wastewater for more treatment and has an air pump, alarms, and more parts. It needs more frequent maintenance than a conventional tank.
Do ATUs in Florida need a maintenance contract?
Florida rules have generally required ATUs to have an operating permit and a maintenance agreement with an approved maintenance entity. Confirm current requirements with the FDEP Onsite Sewage Program.
Why does my aerobic system smell?
A strong sewage odor often means the air pump or diffusers aren't working, so treatment has dropped. Check that the aerator is running and request service.
Can I turn off the aerator at night?
No. The aerator needs to run continuously for the system to treat wastewater properly. If it's noisy, ask a service provider about the pump's condition.
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