An apparatus and a method for the remediation of failing
wastewater treatment systems, such systems being comprised of one or more septic tanks and a seepage pit, drywell, absorption field or an above grade mound
system having an inlet and a plurality of outlets wherein
effluent drains from the inlet to the outlet, comprises a
positive pressure pump having an output, a tube having a first end and a second end, the first end being attachable to the pump output, and an air stone attachable to the second tube end. The pump is used to deliver air through the tube to the air stone. As much tube as is required is used to allow the air stone to be introduced into almost any portion of the
wastewater treatment system so as to introduce air into the
effluent to allow
aerobic bacteria to proliferate. The apparatus could also include a plurality of such pumps, tubes and air stones, and in many combinations. The method comprises introducing
oxygen to the bio-mat, introducing live
aerobic bacteria to the bio-mat, monitoring the level of
effluent in the absorption field or
dry well, and stopping the introduction of air to the effluent when the bio-mat is sufficiently reduced or made permeable. The method could also introduce live
anaerobic bacteria to the treated area after remediation equipment is removed.