FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FAQ: Use this quick reference to find the answers to the most commonly asked questions about wastewater systems. Still need help? Please contact us!

Do I need to obtain a permit to repair my wastewater system?

Yes. With few exceptions, Texas law requires an approved permit to repair any type of wastewater system. This law is intended to assure that the person making the repairs is experienced and understands the correct procedures and processes for repairing a system. The law is in place to protect the environment as well as the homeowner and his neighbors.

Regulations and permit requirements vary by state, and even by county or parish. Your system designer or sanitation engineer can tell you where to go in your area to secure a permit for your wastewater system. For general information by state, please visit our state regulations page.

 

How do I obtain a permit in Texas?

In Texas, septic system repair and installation permits are issued through your county health department. The permit application considers the type of soil, placement of the system relative to creeks, rivers, lakes and property lines, as well as the type of septic system to be repaired or replaced and the installation or repair plan. Each county maintains a list of licensed septic service companies. Because of the potential difficulties involved in obtaining permits, most service providers require the homeowner to complete and file the application. Your Clearstream Systems representative can help you navigate the regulations and the paperwork for any location in the United States.

Can I flush toilet paper in my Clearstream system?

All septic systems are designed to properly process toilet paper. The size of the holding tank is based on the number of bedrooms in the home. Commercially manufactured toilet paper is septic system safe. Therefore, so long as the system is not required to handle more wastewater than it was designed to handle, there should be no problem using toilet paper.

Are additives needed in a Clearstream system?

In most instances, additives are unnecessary to maintain a properly functioning septic system. However, sometimes a system will become overloaded with organic material and the enzymes and bacteria in additives can actually help. This can occur when a system is required to process more waste than it was designed to process. For example, when there are large parties or extra guests for an extended period of time. The need for these supplements is best determined by your Clearstream Systems local installer.

What’s the Chlorinator for?

The CLC 100 Chlorinator from Clearstream is designed for residential and small commercial wastewater treatment systems. The CLC100 is available with dosing units to meet the disinfection of most wastewater treatment systems. Components used in the construction of the Liquid Chlorinator are designed to last for the life of your wastewater system. For more information about the CLC 100 or to order, please visit our parts site.

What type of chlorine should I use?

For CLC100 Liquid Chlorinators, use liquid bleach. For Tablet Chlorinators, use only chlorine tablets specifically designed for wastewater use (>65% Calcium Hypochlorite). Do not use pool chlorine tablets.

What services are provided in my warranty?

Typical maintenance contracts provide for three system inspections per year to certify that the system is operating properly. Expenses associated with repairs, chlorine, and pumping (when required) are the responsibility of the homeowner.  All Clearstream Wastewater Systems are covered by our Two-Year Guarantee and include periodic inspections by a qualified local installer, as well as replacement or repair for any part that malfunctions.

Is the water discharged from the system safe?

All commercially certified aerobic systems produce safe water when properly maintained. The water is treated to kill or eliminate pathogens before they can be discharged through the spray field. However, while the water discharged is safe for plants and pets, the water is not treated to a purification level that is considered safe for human consumption.

Can I maintain it myself?

The laws and regulations vary by state. Ask your Clearstream representative or local installer what laws apply in your state. For example, Texas law permits homeowners to maintain their own system when they have completed a 6-hour, state-approved Basic Wastewater Operations Course, pass the state test, receive a Class D Wastewater Certificate, and receive a certification from the manufacturer of their specific wastewater system. Once the required certificates are obtained, self-maintaining homeowners are required to file copies of all certificates with the county health department.