Aerobic treatment units (ATUs) also popularly called aerobic septic systems are among the several types you can choose from.

However, we’re not interested in dwelling on this type of septic system, rather we’ll be focusing on one of its components; sprinkler heads.

Aerobic Septic System Spray Heads

Sprinkler heads are essential to the waste treatment process of an aerobic septic system. These sprinklers go by several names including effluent sprayers. As the name suggests, such devices aid in the dispersal of effluent.

So, what exactly will we be looking at? Pretty much everything!

The key characteristics of sprinkler heads will be highlighted. This includes the types, common issues as well as troubleshooting advice. What more?

We’ll also include information on maintenance and repairs.

Types of Aerobic Septic System Sprinkler Heads

When it comes to the type of septic system sprinkler heads, you’ll have to consider the brand, the size as well as color among other distinctions.

Lots of aerobic septic system sprinkler head products come from various product manufacturers. The variation in sprinkler heads follows the brand, size, and color of products.

While this is true, there could be other qualities that differentiate one product from the other. However, our focus will be on the three key features mentioned. Let’s take a look at these.

  • Sprinkler Head Brands

The sprinkler head brands available in the market are almost inexhaustible.

A few of these include Orbit, K-Rain, IrriFix, Strongway, Rain Bird, and Rotor Sprinkler Heads. Each of these septic system component manufacturers has a variety of product types.

Further search will reveal tons of sprinkler head products and accessories to choose from. The next logical question to ask is what brand is the best. Each of the brands listed above is quite popular.

While product popularity doesn’t translate to quality, it gives an idea of its reliability.

To have an idea of the best septic system sprinkler head manufacturers, it will be best you speak with an experienced technician. Septic professionals have a better understanding of which brands are reputable.

As such, their advice will be of great benefit.

  • Sprinkler Head Colors

What role does color play in determining the types of septic system sprinkler heads? Quite a lot!

It’s interesting to know that sprinkler heads are color-coded. Such color-coding is crucial because it helps distinguish those for wastewater or effluent dispersal from other types.

Some states require color-coding to distinguish sprinkler heads used for septic systems from those used for other purposes. In the state of Texas, for instance, it’s a requirement that purple sprinkler heads be used to designate the fact that reclaimed wastewater is being discharged.

Anyone seeing such color coding quickly understands that the water isn’t drinkable.

Also, such water isn’t used for irrigation purposes. Not all color types will serve this purpose. Black sprinklers for instance won’t serve the purpose because they aren’t designed to withstand effluent pressure.

  • Sprinkler Head Sizes

The size of an aerobic septic system sprinkler head will be normally considered when discussing the types. There are basically 2 sprinkler head size-types; the 4 and 6 inches. The higher the size, the more area it covers.

In other words, a higher size will spray effluent much farther than smaller sized sprinkler heads.

Common Issues with Aerobic Septic System Sprinkler Heads

Septic system sprinkler heads are designed to serve out their designated lifespan. However, there’s never an assurance that these system components will attain such a lifespan.

One of the reasons for such a situation has to do with the level of use and maintenance.

Some common issues include sprinklers that suddenly stop working and a leaky sprinkler. These issues may require seeking the help of an expert. Calling an electrical technician or plumber will help get to the root of the problem.

Troubleshooting The Problem Before Help Arrives

Before the technician arrives, you can get to work by carrying out simple troubleshooting tasks. First, take a look at the outside of your septic sprinkler head for signs of damage or cracks. The sprinkler head could also be blocked by debris or dirt.

You may want to take a look at the sprinkler head adjustments to see if they’re in good shape.

Also, consider removing the top of the sprinkler head. This allows the removal of the operating cylinder for further inspections and possible repairs.

Damage may occur to the filter found at the bottom of the rotor or sprinkler. If dirt is seen to be the cause, consider cleaning with a garden hose before putting it back in its place.

It’s important to remove all forms of debris and dirt from the sprinkler head housing before putting the sprinkler head in place.

Maintenance & Repairs

One of the most effective ways to prolong the lifespan of your septic system sprinkler heads is to carry out effective maintenance as well as repairs. In the case of maintenance, it’s important to ensure you stick to all use instructions regarding the safe use of this product.

Such instructions will normally accompany this product. When faults develop, urgently seek the help of a technician. Such a technician could either be a plumber or electrician.

Also, any abnormal functioning of this system should be urgently inspected and addressed to prevent further deterioration.

Actions to Take When your Sprinkler Ceases to Work

There are times when a septic system sprinkler abruptly stops working. While calling a technician is the wise thing to do, there are other equally important actions to take as well. One of them involves turning off the pump.

This action (turning off the pump), simple as it may seem helps prevent the risk of burning.

As long as your septic sprinkler heads remain on, this electrical device can burn even when it’s not working. The possibility of further damage is prevented long before it happens by simply putting it off.

Aerobic septic system sprinkler heads are key components that ensure the smooth functioning of the system. Any breakdown or malfunction affects the entire system.

You’ll need to have it fixed as quickly as possible to ensure it returns to normal functioning.

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