Learn About the Wastewater Treatment Process in ID
Although Idaho wastewater services are a portion of our everyday utility costs a lot of people aren't sure what wastewater refers to. Wastewater is water that is not used as drinking water but rather is water that's been used and drained out of a home or business through;
- Sinks
- Bathtubs
- Toilets
- Dishwaters
- Washing machines
Rainwater and storm runoff from roofs, gutters and yards that run into sewage system is also considered wastewater.
Idaho Sewage Services
Sewage is a subset of Idaho wastewater services that may show up on your utility bill. Sewage refers to wastewater that contains human waste contaminants. However, sewage sometimes describes all wastewater that's disposed of through the sewer.
Wastewater Treatment in Idaho
Due to the contaminants wastewater has to be treated before it can be put back into the environment. Contaminants may include:
- Human wastes
- Oil
- Soaps
- Chemicals
- Food scraps
Basically anything that a person puts down a drain can become a contaminant. The environment can naturally handle some contaminants, but because of the very high amount of water that we use wastewater must be treated. A portion of the cost involved with Idaho wastewater services includes the removal of pollutants at a treatment plant.
Wastewater treatment ensures that our rivers, lakes and oceans remain clean and safe to enjoy. A number of the byproducts that come out of treated wastewater are recycled. The remainder is disposed of in a way that is more controlled and has a small impact on the earth.
How to Get Idaho Wastewater and Treatment Services
Wastewater services in Idaho are usually provided by your utility company, but remember these services are sometimes provided separately from electricity, garbage pick up, gas services, etc. In lots of areas the city or municipality will provide wastewater services. These services are rendered to protect the people of the community and the environment, services that are typically the responsibility of the local Idaho government.
However, there are private businesses that provide Idaho wastewater services as well.
How Much Do Idaho Wastewater Services Cost?
The cost of Idaho wastewater services varies from location to location, and in some areas all water-related services are going up in price. Some people are surprised to find that their wastewater services cost more than water itself. That's due to the intensive and costly process involved with treating the wastewater.
The monthly cost is determined by measuring the water usage which is indicated by just how much water has passed through your meter since the previous month.
Wastewater will be one of several costs included in your water bill.
