How to Determine Wastewater Volume and Composition
Determine Wastewater Volume
Since water is not used in the final product, the volume of wastewater generated should approximately equal the volume of incoming water. This does not include precipitation that may enter the wastewater stream through crush pad drains or downspouts.
Wineries should measure average daily wastewater generation over the course of the year, and peak daily wastewater generation during harvest.
Wineries should take into account not just their current wastewater volumes, but also projected wastewater volumes to account for future growth.
Determine Wastewater Composition
- Wastewater composition can be determined by sampling wastewater effluent for analysis by a licensed laboratory.
- Wineries can work with a consultant to characterize their wastewater as part of the design process for on-site wastewater treatment systems.
| Parameter | Description | Sources Within Wineries | Typical Values in Winery Wastewater |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) | Sugars and organic matter in wastewater | Sources of BOD within wineries include grapes, juice, wine, lees as well as citric and other cleaners. | 2,500 – 12,000 mg/l |
| Total Suspended Solids (TSS) | Small particles found in wastewater | Sources of solids include skins, stems, juice and wine, lees, bentonite, diatomaceous earth, and cleaning water residues. | 500 – 4,000 mg/l |
| pH | Measure of acidity of wastewater | Sources of acidity include juice, wine, and citric. Sources of alkalinity include caustic. | 4 – 8 |
Ensure rainwater is not entering the wastewater system through crushpad drains or other means.