What does effluent refer to in the context of wastewater systems?

Effluent refers specifically to the liquid that is discharged from a sewage treatment device or system after the treatment process has taken place. In the context of onsite wastewater systems, effluent is the treated wastewater that is released into a drainage field, surface water, or other acceptable disposal methods, depending on the regulations in place. This liquid is usually the result of a series of biological, physical, and chemical processes designed to remove contaminants from the wastewater.

Understanding the nature of effluent is crucial for those working with wastewater systems, as it helps to ensure compliance with health and environmental standards, and it aids in the design and operation of these systems. This distinguishes it from other forms of wastewater or water, such as solid waste, which is typically not in liquid form, or water from food service operations, which may not have undergone treatment. Water used for irrigation is a separate context, as it often involves water that may or may not be treated specifically for agricultural use.