Learn About the Wastewater Treatment Process in IL
Although Illinois wastewater services are a part of our everyday utility costs many people aren't sure what wastewater means. Wastewater is water that isn't used as drinking water but rather is water that has been used and drained out of a house or business through;
- Sinks
- Bathtubs
- Toilets
- Dishwaters
- Washing machines
Rainwater and storm runoff from roofs, gutters and yards that flow into sewage system is also thought to be wastewater.
Illinois Sewage Services
Sewage is a subset of Illinois wastewater services that may show up on your utility bill. Sewage is the term for wastewater containing human waste contaminants. However, sewage sometimes refers to all wastewater which is disposed of through the sewer.
Wastewater Treatment in Illinois
Due to the contaminants wastewater needs to be treated before it can be put back into the environment. Contaminants can include:
- Human wastes
- Oil
- Soaps
- Chemicals
- Food scraps
Basically anything that a person puts down a drain could become a contaminant. The environment can naturally handle some contaminants, but because of the elevated amount of water that we use wastewater must be treated. Part of the cost involved with Illinois 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. Some of the byproducts that come out of treated wastewater are recycled. The remainder is disposed of in a fashion that is more controlled and has a small impact on the earth.
How to Get Illinois Wastewater and Treatment Services
Wastewater services in Illinois are usually furnished by your utility company, but remember these services are sometimes provided separately from electricity, garbage pick up, gas services, etc. In many areas the city or municipality will supply wastewater services. These services are rendered to protect the people of the community and the environment, services that are often the responsibility of the local Illinois government.
However, there are private businesses that provide Illinois wastewater services as well.
How Much Do Illinois Wastewater Services Cost?
The cost of Illinois wastewater services varies from location to location, and in some areas all water-related services are going up in price. Many 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 how much water has gone through through your meter since the previous month.
Wastewater will be just one of several costs included in your water bill.
