BioHitech America Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Aerobic digestion is the natural biological degradation and purification process in which micro-organisms that thrive in oxygen-rich environments break down and digest the waste. The digestion process produces “effluent” which can be treated and introduced back into the ecosystem as water.

Effluent is defined by the United States Environmental Protection Agency as “wastewater” that flows out of the Eco-Safe Digester. When effluent has been treated it is sometimes called secondary effluent, or treated effluent. Approximately 100 gallons of effluent is produced by every 1,200 pound of food processed.

The effluent flows effortlessly through the sewer system to the waste water treatment plant. Sewers should benefit from effluent-rich liquid flowing downstream. Various uses for the discharged water are in development.

The breakthrough recycling technology uses micro-organisms to breakdown large volumes of food waste in less than 24 hours in a stainless steel waste decomposition machine, completely eliminating the waste on site. The addition of oxygen mixed with a specific temperature introduced by the addition of water, aids the aerobic process. No chemicals are used in the process nor are solids generated that need to be handled. An on-board scale helps to monitor daily, weekly and monthly pounds processed through the machine.

The organic micro-organisms are completely safe to touch and the moist warm moisture is safe to inhale.

Of all the biological treatment methods, aerobic digestion is the most widespread process that is used throughout the world. It is generally accepted as the most advanced method of recycling food, as it is reliable, cost effective and highly efficient in digesting food waste. Over 10 million pounds of food has been diverted from landfills and processed through the Eco-Safe Digester to date. Approximately 100 new machines are installed each year. More and more businesses are recognizing this technology as the smart, cost-effective choice for managing organic waste.

Businesses that produce high volumes of food waste are candidates. For example, chain restaurants, conference centers, corporate dining halls, correctional facilities, country clubs, food banks, hospitals, hotels, stadiums, supermarkets and university dining halls, just to name a few.

The Eco-Safe Digester solution provides reliability in service, cost effectiveness and a reduction of your carbon footprint. Converting your organic waste into a valuable resource by diverting it from landfills is cost efficient, ecologically sound, reduces long distance hauling costs and related emissions, allows your organization to achieve sustainability status and become a greener brand, and helps contribute to a healthier environment for future generations.

In the United States, traditional waste disposal is still the most common method utilized to handle waste. Over the years, composting and anaerobic digestion machines have introduced themselves as alternative solutions. All three competing methods bring many unattractive, unappealing and environmentally unfriendly obstacles to light.

The machine requires a hot and cold water supply (if hot water is not available, an internal hot water heater can be added at a nominal cost), 208V - 30 amp - 3 phase electricity, and a 3” to 4” floor drain. The machine needs sufficient room around it for optimal performance and maintenance. It should be placed in a room that is at least 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Once the roughing is confirmed installation can be completed in one day.

After the Eco-Safe Digester is installed a BioHitech representative will dedicate the appropriate time to train every staff member on the proper operating procedures. Our training does not end until the staff is comfortable with their interaction and responsibility of the machines performance.

When operating a 1200 pound machine in a 24 hour period, the fresh water consumption is 100 to 300 gallons per day. The effluent discharged is 400 to 500 gallons per day. When operating an 800 pound machine in a 24 hour period, the fresh water consumption is approximately 200 gallons per day.  The effluent discharged is 250 to 350 gallons per day.  When operating a 400 pound machine in a 24 hour period, the fresh water consumption is approximately 100 gallons per day.  The effluent discharged is 100 to 200 gallons per day.

The Eco-Safe Digester is a continuous feed machine. It can accept a large quantity in the first feeding of the day, but it is recommended that smaller frequent feedings occur throughout the remainder of the day. The machine hatch can be opened and closed multiple times in one hour. The machine can be fed 24 hours a day, 7 days per week.

A mixed diet containing produce, dairy, bakery items, fish, meat & poultry should be introduced throughout the day. Chopping of larger items like watermelons, squash, etc. are recommended. The smaller the food item size the better, as digestion will occur at a faster rate.

The following organic materials can NOT be fed into the machine:

     Clam, Mussel and Oyster Shells, Corn Husks, Fats and Oils, Large Bones (T-Bone, Ham and Veal Shank Bones), Pineapple Skins and Tops.

The following in-organic materials can NOT be fed into the machine:

     Cardboard, China, Glass, Paper, Plastic, Rubber Bands, Silverware, Chemicals, Cleaning Agents or Boiling Water.

Avoid adding large quantities of baked goods at one time, it will interfere and reduce the rate of digestion. Avoid adding frozen items, allow them time to thaw. Food will digest best at room temperature.

A yearly maintenance plan is recommended to ensure maximum productivity and to keep the warranty valid. Micro-organisms are replaced every two months, the habitat is replaced every six months, scale and computer calibration is completed with each visit. Preventative daily maintenance can easily be performed by the customer.

One year limited warranty is offered.

Our service organization is able to provide 24 hour service 7 days a week to the 50 states.