BIOFILTERS: “LOW” MAINTENANCE DOES NOT MEAN “NO” MAINTENANCE

Biofilters have become a well-established odor control technology at wastewater treatment facilities. One of the main advantages often cited during biofilter selection is their minimal maintenance. These systems may have relatively low maintenance requirements, but it should be recognized that “low” maintenance does not mean “no” maintenance. In some cases, neglect of biofilters has led to drastic performance failures.Much has been published in the literature about biofilter performance and design criteria, but little information is available on how to properly maintain a biofilter. As an aid to operators, maintenance procedures were developed to address the basic requirements of biofilter prolongation. The focus is on biofilters treating hydrogen sulfide at wastewater facilities, but most of the procedures are generally applicable for industrial installations as well. The procedures provide a schedule of routine inspection and performance monitoring tasks.