Learn About the Wastewater Treatment Process in ME
Although Maine 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 isn't used as drinking water but rather is water that has 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 thought to be wastewater.
Maine Sewage Services
Sewage is a subset of Maine wastewater services that may show up on your utility bill. Sewage is the term for wastewater that contains human waste contaminants. However, sewage sometimes refers to all wastewater which is disposed of through the sewer.
Wastewater Treatment in Maine
Due to the contaminants wastewater must be treated before it can be put back into the environment. Contaminants may include:
- Human wastes
- Oil
- Soaps
- Chemicals
- Food scraps
Basically just about 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 Maine 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 manner that is more controlled and has a limited impact on the earth.
How to Get Maine Wastewater and Treatment Services
Wastewater services in Maine are usually provided 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 provides wastewater services. These services are rendered to safeguard the people of the community and the environment, services that are usually the responsibility of the local Maine government.
However, there are private companies that provide Maine wastewater services as well.
How Much Do Maine Wastewater Services Cost?
The price of Maine wastewater services varies from region to region, 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 because of the intensive and costly process involved with treating the wastewater.
The monthly cost is determined by measuring the water usage which is indicated by the amount of water has gone through through your meter since the previous month.
Wastewater will be one of several costs included in your water bill.
