Formaldehyde-free deodorizer in November: does cold weather affect breakdown?

Question

Our company switched to formaldehyde-free deodorizer this year for environmental compliance and to meet wastewater plant rules. We service standard units at construction sites and weekend events, and the warm weather performance has been solid. Now that November's here, overnight temps are dipping near freezing at some of our rural job sites. I'm noticing the odor control isn't holding up as well in the mornings, especially in units that aren't used heavily. The deodorizer seems to separate or lose effectiveness when it's cold. Has anyone else seen this with formaldehyde-free formulas in cold weather? Does the breakdown slow down, or do we need to adjust the mix or service frequency?

Deb K. · Answer

Yes, cold weather slows the microbial action in formaldehyde-free deodorizer, reducing its odor control effectiveness. A formaldehyde-free deodorizer relies on live bacteria to break down waste, and those bacteria become sluggish below about 50 degrees Fahrenheit. In a standard unit with a 50 to 70 gallon holding tank, the solution can stratify, with the active part settling to the bottom if it's not agitated by use. Lightly used units in cold weather are the worst; the tank just sits there getting cold overnight. You will need to adjust your service frequency for those units. Increase service visits to twice a week for units in freezing conditions, especially at remote sites. Also, ask your supplier if they make a cold-weather blend; some formulas include microbes that are more cold-tolerant. On your service route, give each tank a good stir with the hose when you pump it to mix the deodorizer back in.

Formaldehyde-free deodorizer in November: does cold weather affect breakdown?

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