Managing odors is a daily battle for water and wastewater treatment professionals. Here are five tried-and-true strategies to keep those unpleasant smells in check:
- Monitor and Maintain Regularly: Stay ahead of odors by performing routine checks on equipment, tanks and biofilters. Early detection can prevent big problems.
- Upgrade Your Technology: Odor control systems have come a long way. Consider investing in advanced scrubbers, chemical treatments, or activated carbon filters.
- Optimize Aeration: Poorly aerated systems can lead to unpleasant smells. Ensure aeration equipment is working efficiently to reduce odor-causing compounds.
- Seal the Sources: Cover tanks, lagoons or manholes to limit the escape of odors. Containment is one of the easiest and most effective solutions.
- Engage the Community: Be transparent with nearby residents about your efforts. Proactively addressing concerns can build goodwill and reduce complaints.
Managing odor may be an ongoing challenge, but with the right tools and strategies, it’s a challenge you can control.
