Breweries tend to produce large quantities of wastewater, the natural byproduct of the brewing process. Surprisingly, this wastewater can be very harmful to the environment, as it’s usually dense in sugar, alcohol, and other residuals that cannot simply be released untreated. For this reason, breweries must place rigorous wastewater treatment processes in place.
This can be easier said than done. Brewery wastewater treatment usually involves an aeration process, which requires advanced technology, lots of power, and high electricity costs. Nevertheless, it’s crucial for breweries to find a way to treat their effluents effectively, avoiding any regulatory non-compliance.
So, what should breweries know about managing their wastewater treatment process? Here are a few guidelines to keep in mind.
Tips for Brewery Wastewater Treatment
- Breweries must meet discharge limits. If you send your wastewater into the local sewer system, then you need to make sure you comply with local limits and prohibitions. The specifics can vary by municipality.
- It’s crucial to manage total suspended solids (TSS). Spent yeast, hops, and barley can potentially clog the sewage system. Breweries that release them into the local sewer may be subject to fines or other regulatory penalties. Be sure your wastewater treatment process involves the filtration of solids.
- Acidity is also an issue. Brewery wastewater often has a high level of acidity, which can corrode storage containers and also damage sewer systems. It’s important to check local limits on wastewater pH level, properly aerating wastewater to keep that acidity level in check.
- Temperature matters, too. Discharging wastewater at a high temperature can also present some complications, resulting in regulatory concerns. Again, it’s important to check the local municipality’s guidelines and restrictions.
- Seek a discharge permit, as needed. Depending on the size of your brewery and the amount of wastewater you discharge, you may need to apply for a local permit. The local sewage and wastewater management system can provide further information.
- You may also need to install an access point. Some municipalities will require you to have an easy-access monitoring point, allowing representatives of the city or county to come take samples or test your wastewater at their convenience.
Find Out More About Brewery Wastewater Treatment
Every brewery must be strategic and intentional in its wastewater treatment efforts, ensuring in-house efficiency but also legal compliance. Having the right technology can certainly help. To learn more about effective wastewater treatment for your brewery, reach out to the national experts at PHS. We have decades of experience in this field and are happy to tell you more about customizable technology solutions.