Learn About the Wastewater Treatment Process in SC
Although South Carolina wastewater services are a portion of our everyday utility costs lots of people aren't sure what wastewater refers to. Wastewater is water that isn't used as drinking water but instead 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 flow into sewage system is also considered wastewater.
South Carolina Sewage Services
Sewage is a subset of South Carolina wastewater services that may show up on your utility bill. Sewage refers to wastewater containing human waste contaminants. However, sewage sometimes refers to all wastewater which is disposed of through the sewer.
Wastewater Treatment in South Carolina
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 almost 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. Part of the cost involved with South Carolina 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 rest is disposed of in a manner that is more controlled and has a restricted impact on the environment.
How to Get South Carolina Wastewater and Treatment Services
Wastewater services in South Carolina are usually furnished by your utility company, but keep in mind these services are sometimes provided separately from electricity, garbage pick up, gas services, etc. In many 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 usually the responsibility of the local South Carolina government.
However, there are private businesses that provide South Carolina wastewater services as well.
How Much Do South Carolina Wastewater Services Cost?
The price of South Carolina wastewater services varies from region to region, 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 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 passed through your meter since the previous month.
Wastewater will be just one of several costs included in your water bill.
