Alstonville Second Dwelling
Advanced secondary wastewater treatment for an additional dwelling
PROJECT DETAILS
Location:
Alstonville, NSW
Product:
FujiClean CE1500EX with Subsurface Drip Irrigation
Capability:
Consult, design, and construct HSTP
True Water recently designed and installed a new Home Sewage Treatment Plant on a 1.7acre lifestyle block in Alstonville. This quaint town in the New South Wales Northern Rivers region is known for its stunning countryside and expansive properties.
Many homes in the area are not connected to the municipal sewerage network, and the limited number of connections makes it economically impractical for councils to extend sewerage infrastructure to these areas. Fortunately, the block had enough space for an auxiliary dwelling and the compact wastewater treatment system seamlessly fit into the plans.
However, we quickly identified that space would be limited with two houses, driveways, garages, sheds, gardens, and a pool. Therefore, it was critical to consider the location and design of the Home Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) and the Land Application Area (LAA) where treated water would be dispersed.
Our consultants developed a plan for the onsite treatment and dispersal of wastewater for this home in Alstonville.
Our 300m² Subsurface Drip Irrigation Effluent Dispersal Area was designed to fit around the trees, minimising root damage.
The advanced sewage treatment plant is installed with care to ensure perfect operation.
The finished effluent dispersal area will provide underground dripp irrigation and support the grwoth of the grass and trees in the home's yard.
The compact FujiClean Home Sewage Treatment Plant provides Advanced Secondary Wastewater Treatment.
Advanced secondary wastewater treatment
Our team recommended advanced secondary wastewater treatment. Specifically, True Water environmental consultants selected the Fuji Clean CE1500EX as the best solution. Initially, after conducting a site visit to assess the property and the existing house, which already had a septic tank and Evapotranspiration Absorption beds installed, we found both in good condition and appropriately sized for the existing home.
However, the system could not handle the wastewater from the proposed second dwelling. As a result, and to meet council requirements, we needed to find an alternate solution. Typically, when adding a second dwelling to a property, many councils require an Advanced Secondary Wastewater Treatment System. So, as part of the Development Application for the new house, we undertook all required planning and consultancy and provided a comprehensive Effluent Management Report for the owners.
The first step was to undertake a detailed site inspection and consult with the owners on their plans. The property had good drainage, and despite recent rainfall, there were no signs of puddles, pooling or wetness. Subsequently, we excavated soil boreholes in areas identified as favourable for effluent dispersal. We collected soil samples from each soil horizon for analysis. The complex investigation and assessment processes resulted in a design solution to suit the needs of the homeowners that is appropriate for the location.
Subsurface drip irrigation for onsite dispersal
The Fuji Clean Home Sewage Treatment Plant uses biological treatment to achieve a high level of treated effluent. Additionally, due to its high quality treatment, this system allowed us to utilise space near property boundaries for effluent dispersal by applying reduced setbacks when compared to septic systems. We also advised the client that NSW Health requires that all secondary treatment systems be serviced by a qualified professional every three months.
Although the property had many trees, rather than clearing them or digging deeper for ETA beds, we opted for 300m² of Subsurface Drip Irrigation. This Land Application Area was designed to fit around the trees, minimising root damage and providing the vegetation with beneficial water reuse. Once Ballina Shire Council granted approval, work began on the new home.
Toward the end of the home’s construction, our team worked closely with the builders and property owners to determine a suitable installation date for our system. Site preparation included pruning trees in the works area, mowing, and removing rocks and sticks. Installation was achieved in one day with the excavation, tank installation, system connection, and backfilling completed with the utmost care. Likewise, we carefully planned the Subsurface Drip Irrigation network, ensuring consistent depth across the area during trenching for even flow and improved pump performance (reducing power consumption).
Ensuring reliable and eco-friendly wastewater treatment
Wastewater has the potential to contaminate ground and surface water, posing risks to community health and the environment. The Alstonville region includes diverse ecosystems, rich biodiversity, vibrant waterways and thriving communities. Attention to detail and confidence in the end product are important factors when choosing an onsite wastewater management system.
The client chose True Water for its industry leading wastewater expertise and technology. Our team helps you navigate the regulatory approval process and works closely with each client to make sure you end up with the right solution for your home. For this project, the need to provide onsite wastewater treatment for a second dwelling added another layer of complexity. True Water’s experience ensured a simple and hassle free solution.
Our project management expertise, detailed planning, and state-of-the-art equipment delivered a seamless installation that minimised inconvenience to the client. The owner of this dual occupancy site at Alstonville now benefits from a durable, reliable, and cost-effective Wastewater Treatment System. The Fuji Clean Home Sewage Treatment Plant is a compact, odourless, and quiet domestic wastewater technology that reliably safeguards the owners health and safety and protects the surrounding environment. Its advanced treatment process saves electricity, minimises maintenance, and produces high-quality treated water.
