Long Island Homeowners Face New Challenges: Advanced Treatment Unit Repairs and 2025 Technology Requirements
As environmental regulations tighten across New York State, Long Island property owners are discovering that their traditional septic systems may no longer meet the evolving standards for wastewater treatment. Governor Hochul has signed legislation making it easier and more affordable for New Yorkers to upgrade to advanced septic systems that significantly reduce water pollution, with eligible property owners able to be reimbursed up to 75 percent of eligible costs up to $25,000 for the installation of an enhanced septic system.
Understanding Advanced Treatment Units (ATUs)
Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs) use many of the same processes as a municipal sewage plant, but on a smaller scale. An aerobic system injects oxygen into the treatment tank. The additional oxygen increases natural bacterial activity within the system that then provides additional treatment for nutrients in the effluent. Unlike traditional septic systems that rely primarily on anaerobic bacteria, ATUs create an oxygen-rich environment that dramatically improves waste treatment efficiency.
An ATU system handles sewage similarly to a traditional septic system, but with one major difference: it significantly reduces the amount nitrogen that enters area soil and groundwater by as much as 75%. This nitrogen reduction is crucial for protecting Long Island’s sensitive groundwater resources and preventing harmful algal blooms in local waterways.
New York’s 2025 Environmental Push
Outdated or failing septic systems are a significant contributor to nutrient pollution in New York, fueling harmful algal blooms (HABs) and negatively impacting water quality. Investing in an enhanced septic system, though often more costly than conventional wastewater treatment, is crucial to help improve water quality on Long Island. These advanced systems are specifically designed to significantly reduce nitrogen, helping to also mitigate the environmental and public health impacts of phosphorus and per- and polyfluoroalkyl (PFAS) substances.
The state’s commitment to water quality improvement has led to substantial funding opportunities for homeowners. The $30 million in grants announced today are awarded by the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation, in coordination with the Departments of Health and Environmental Conservation, and are part of the State’s nation-leading commitment to modernize aging water and sewer systems. New York State will provide funds to counties to reimburse eligible property owners for a portion of the cost of replacing cesspools and septic systems and installing more environmentally effective systems.
The Importance of Professional ATU Repairs
ATUs are equipped with more advanced technology and components than what is commonly found on a traditional septic system. These components include alarm systems, air pumps, electrical systems, and bacteria maintenance. Because of these structural differences, ATUs must be installed by technicians from a professional ATU septic company that are knowledgeable about installation, environmental standards, and local regulations for this type of septic system.
When it comes to repairs, ATUs require specialized knowledge and equipment. While modern septic systems should be pumped an average of once every 3-5 years, ATUs actually require pumping once every 1-3 years. While this increase in frequency may sound like a possible downside, the efficiency of ATUs offset any increase in pumping costs by reducing the cost of water bills over the course of the year. Maintaining regular pump-out and maintenance appointments ensures that your ATUs electrical systems, air pumps, and other components continue to function optimally.
EZ Cesspool: Your Trusted Long Island Partner
Since its birth as a family-run business, EZ Cesspool has serviced the local, neighboring communities in both Huntington and Greenlawn. After years of dedication and acquired credibility within the industry, EZ Cesspool eventually expanded its clientele base by providing to both Nassau and Suffolk Counties Cesspool repair and septic services. EZ Cesspool is proud to say that we currently serve the entirety of Long Island.
What sets EZ Cesspool apart in the competitive Long Island market is their commitment to quality and customer service. Our belief is that no job is ever too large or small, which is why we offer reasonable, competitive prices and DO NOT sub-contract any work. Further, we provide a 24/7 emergency service for septic systems, which is both prompt and reliable.
For homeowners dealing with ATU repairs or considering upgrades to meet new environmental standards, professional septic system repair services are essential. A commitment to delivering outstanding results with top-tier customer service. Whether its residential or commercial, we can inspect your system for any type of damage. If you do have a problem with your septic system or cesspool, we can repair or replace it.
Benefits of ATU Systems for Long Island Properties
The benefits of this system are that it can be used in homes with smaller lots, inadequate soil conditions, in areas where the water table is too high, or for homes close to a surface water body sensitive to contamination by nutrients contained in wastewater effluent. This makes ATUs particularly valuable for Long Island properties, where high water tables and sensitive coastal environments are common concerns.
The efficiency with which ATUs treat septic waste means that they produce cleaner effluent (the final product of treated waste), and have a much lower risk of contaminating surrounding natural water sources. Installing an ATU on your property can help mitigate the risk of contaminating surrounding groundwater, keeping your community and environment cleaner.
Maintenance Requirements and Compliance
Regular life-time maintenance should be expected for ATUs. This ongoing maintenance requirement, while more frequent than traditional systems, ensures optimal performance and environmental protection. We can help maintain the life of your cesspool & septic systems. Our experience in working with cesspools and septic systems is second to none. We have all the necessary tools and can even help recommend a yearly maintenance plan if you want that.
The regulatory landscape in New York continues to evolve, with New York State takes the management of septic systems seriously due to the potential environmental impacts and public health concerns associated with improperly maintained systems. The state has established a comprehensive regulatory framework to govern the installation, maintenance, and operation of septic systems. As a property owner in New York, it’s vital for you to understand these regulations to ensure your septic system is not only compliant but also contributes to the well-being of the community and environment.
Looking Ahead: Investment in Water Quality
As Long Island faces increasing environmental pressures and regulatory requirements, the investment in Advanced Treatment Units represents more than just compliance—it’s an investment in the region’s future water quality and environmental health. We are the professionals when it comes to septic tank service and installation. We understand that you need your system to function properly and for many years to come, so we make sure each step of the process is done with precision and care.
Whether you’re dealing with an existing ATU that needs repairs or considering an upgrade from a traditional septic system, partnering with experienced professionals like EZ Cesspool ensures that your system meets current regulations while protecting Long Island’s precious water resources for future generations. Further, we provide a 24/7 emergency service for septic systems, which is both prompt and reliable, giving homeowners peace of mind that help is always available when needed.