Need help?Do you have a question about the Bionest SA-4 and is the answer not in the manual?
Explains the BIOLARM control system, its indicators, and malfunction signals.
Lists products that should never be disposed of in the septic installation.
Details what should not be discharged and forbidden actions around the system.
Warns about the dangers of entering confined spaces within the system.
Highlights serious electric shock hazards and precautions.
Outlines the owner's obligations regarding system maintenance and contracts.
A guide to identifying issues like odors, backflows, and flooding with initial steps.
Explains visual and sound alarms related to air supply and auxiliary functions.
The BIONEST® system is an advanced secondary wastewater treatment system designed to replicate and accelerate the natural purification process that occurs in the ground. This biological process takes place in a restricted and controlled environment, effectively removing organic and microbial pollutants that are harmful to health and the environment. The system is specifically designed for the treatment of domestic type wastewaters and is not intended for converting wastewater into safe drinking water.
The core of the BIONEST® system is a biological process that utilizes a synthetic media. This media, a non-toxic patented polymer ribbon, is scored to promote the growth of a bacterial biofilm. This biofilm is crucial for the purification process, as it hosts the bacteria responsible for breaking down pollutants.
The treatment chain begins with primary treatment, typically in a septic tank. Wastewater flows into the septic tank through an input device. The septic tank is equipped with an effluent filter, which is a crucial component for preventing premature clogging of the downstream treatment system. This filter holds solid particles larger than its filtration slots. Various BNQ certified effluent filter models are used, depending on the specific septic tank.
After primary treatment, the wastewater enters the BIONEST® reactor. Inside the reactor, several components work in concert to achieve advanced purification. Air diffusers provide a constant supply of air, ensuring ideal conditions for biological treatment regardless of outdoor weather. Aeration is supplied by one or several diaphragm aerators, commonly referred to as air pumps. These air pumps are vital for the system's operation and must remain active at all times. A slight humming sound indicates the pump is functioning. In the event of a malfunction, an alarm will be triggered.
A recirculation pump, installed in the last compartment of the BIONEST® reactor, plays a key role in enhancing treatment performance. It returns a portion of the treated effluent back to the septic tank inlet, ensuring multiple contacts between the wastewater and the purifying bacteria.
The system's electrical components and potential malfunctions are monitored by the BIOLARM® control system. This system detects issues with the recirculation pump or aerator (air pump), as well as high water levels detected by the BIO-UV™, BIO-PUMP™, or an effluent filter high-level float. The BIOLARM® connects to a 120 V outlet and emits a beep when a malfunction occurs. A green indicator light confirms the BIOLARM® is functioning, while two red lights pinpoint the reason for the alarm. The BIOLARM® also features a "relay" type terminal, allowing connection to other alarm units such as residential alarm systems, light bulbs, or emergency lights. An identification plate on the BIOLARM® casing provides the system's specifications, including its serial number, which is important to have on hand when contacting Bionest.
Peripheral components can further enhance the system. The BIO-R+™ is an outdoor casing that shelters the BIOLARM® and the aerator (air pump). It can be secured to a concrete wall or installed on a post. The BIO-R+™ must always be accessible, its vent holes kept clear of obstructions, and it should not be buried. A minimum of 30 cm (12 in.) of free space is required below it, and it must be protected from snow or ice accumulation.
For situations requiring treated water to be pumped to a higher discharge point, the BIO-PUMP™ integrated pumping system is utilized. This preassembled system is installed in the last compartment of the BIONEST® reactor, eliminating the need for an external pumping station. A high water level float with alarm (BIOLARM®) within the reactor signals an effluent pump failure.
For tertiary treatment with disinfection, the BIO-UV™ ultraviolet ray disinfection unit can be integrated. This preassembled unit is installed in the last compartment of the BIONEST® reactor, where treated water is gravity drawn. The BIOLARM® activates a visual and sound alarm in case of a UV lamp failure or a high water level. Ultraviolet rays effectively destroy fecal coliforms, achieving a quality level above swimming water standards. This UV treatment is particularly beneficial for problematic situations such as small ground areas, clay soil, or difficult compliance-related scenarios. The unit's casing includes a visual display showing the lamp's remaining useful life, total days used, and whether the UV lamp is functioning or needs replacement. After 12 months of operation, the BIOLARM® alarm will activate, signaling the need for lamp replacement to ensure maximum efficiency.
Proper usage and maintenance are critical for the system's efficient functioning, useful life, and environmental protection. It is mandatory to respect all applicable regulations regarding maintenance and discharge standards. The septic tank and BIONEST® reactor must be completely filled with clear water before starting the aerator and recirculation pump. Operating the system without the air pump can lead to serious consequences, including odors, clogging, and warranty cancellation. Discharge from water softeners or other potable water treatment devices into the system is not recommended, and is forbidden for tertiary treatment systems.
Certain products should never be disposed of in a septic installation, including paints, caustic clog removers, petroleum products, large quantities of household cleaning products or chlorine bleach, antibacterial products, automatic toilet or shower cleaners, pesticides, septic tank additives, and non-biodegradable objects. Waste disposal units are also not recommended as they increase suspended solids and organic load, potentially clogging the effluent filter and reactor. Backwash from spas or pools, and precipitation/rainwaters, must not be directed to the septic installation. Non-domestic waters are strictly prohibited. Failure to adhere to these instructions can result in odor problems, warranty cancellation, and additional costs.
It is forbidden to alter the system's configuration, plant trees less than 3 meters away, place heavy objects (over 200 kg) near the system or pipes, drive or park vehicles within 3 meters, or build permanent structures over the installation without a minimum 1.75-meter height clearance. Entering a septic tank or any confined space of the wastewater treatment system is extremely dangerous and requires specialized equipment and training. Any contact with wastewaters poses a biological hazard.
The owner must not open reactor covers or handle components without prior authorization from a Bionest representative. Electrical safety is paramount: power supply must always be disconnected before handling electrical components. The BIOLARM® and aerator are grounded, and plugs must be inserted into grounded outlets. Before digging near the septic installation, the installer should be contacted due to underground pipes and electrical wires. The system should not be operated with a damaged electrical cord.
For seasonal or intermittent use, the system is designed for adequate operation even without a constant wastewater supply. For periods of use with short breaks, the power supply should remain uninterrupted. However, for seasonal use (e.g., summer cottage) or periods exceeding six consecutive weeks without use, the aerator (air pump) power supply may be disconnected, but must be restarted upon the occupants' return. For systems with UV disinfection, Bionest should be contacted for specific instructions.
Maintenance responsibilities include a binding contract with the manufacturer for annual maintenance visits. Advanced secondary systems require one yearly visit, while tertiary systems with UV disinfection require two. The owner must also use and maintain the system according to the manual. After maintenance, a report is provided, with an additional copy sent to local authorities for UV disinfection systems. The system must always be accessible for interventions, with covers and 10 cm around them cleared.
The effluent filter is cleaned by a Bionest representative during maintenance visits, typically twice a year, but more frequently if significant deposits are observed. Septic tanks must be emptied by a specialized firm. For regular use, emptying is required at least once every other year, and for seasonal use, once every four years, or when sludge accumulation exceeds 30 cm or the foam layer exceeds 12 cm. Before emptying the septic tank, the BIOLARM® power supply must be disconnected to stop the recirculation pump and alarms. After emptying, the septic tank must be completely refilled with clear water before reconnecting the BIOLARM®.
The aerator (air pump) filter requires periodic cleaning, more frequently in dusty areas. A clogged filter can lead to overheating or pump failure. To clean, disconnect the aerator and BIOLARM® power supplies, remove the cover and filter, clean the filter (with soapy water if needed, ensuring thorough rinsing and drying), reinstall the filter and cover, and finally, reconnect the power supplies. The aerator must be installed in a well-ventilated, dust-free room.
The BIO-UV™ lamp must be replaced after 12 months of operation by an authorized Bionest representative to ensure maximum efficiency. The UV lamp is also cleaned by a Bionest representative after six months of operation. Direct viewing of an operating UV lamp is dangerous and can cause serious eye damage and skin burns.
The BIONEST® system is equipped with a troubleshooting guide to help identify and resolve common issues. If abnormal odors are noticed, checking for a defective or inadequate vent is the first step. If backflow occurs, contacting a plumber and cleaning the effluent filter are recommended. Ground flooding may indicate low permeable soil, a leak, or a clogged polishing field, requiring immediate contact with the installer. The BIOLARM® alarm system provides visual and sound indicators for various problems, including low air supply pressure, auxiliary (UV) issues, water recirculation pump stoppage, and high water levels. Pressing the "Silence Air" or "Silence Water" button will silence the alarm, with a reminder sound alarm activating after 48 hours if the issue persists. For any alarm, reducing water consumption and contacting Bionest immediately is advised.
The warranty certificate outlines the terms and conditions of the warranty provided by Bionest. The BIONEST® media is guaranteed for 30 years (parts and labor), as it never needs replacement and cannot clog. The BIO-UV® carries a 100% warranty for the first two years, regressing yearly thereafter. The UV lamp is replaced annually as part of maintenance. Other components like the BIO-UV™ and BIO-R+™ have a 10-year parts warranty and a 1-year labor warranty. The aerator has a 5-year parts warranty and a 1-year labor warranty. Diffusers, recirculation pump, and BIOLARM® have a 5-year parts warranty and a 1-year labor warranty. BIO-PUMP™ and diaphragms have a 2-year parts warranty and a 1-year labor warranty. Warranties are effective from the system's start-up date and are limited to the province of Québec. The client must immediately notify Bionest of any apparent abnormality or malfunction within ten calendar days to maintain warranty validity. Bionest is not liable for damages caused by fortuitous events, third parties, unauthorized modifications, or failure to use and maintain the system according to the owner's manual and Bionest recommendations. The warranty also excludes costs for accessing the system if special actions like excavation or snow removal are required. In case of ownership transfer, the new owner must confirm in writing to Bionest their ownership, knowledge of the warranty certificate, and acceptance of its terms within 30 days. Failure to do so voids the warranty.
General| Brand | Bionest |
|---|---|
| Model | SA-4 |
| Category | Water Filtration Systems |
| Language | English |
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