Frequently Asked Questions

Maintenance

What types of records are kept for maintenance?

Filterra keeps a record of maintenance performed on each unit while under such contract. These records include: a photograph of each unit and maintenance detail (amount and type of sediment and trash removed, plant height, width, and evaluation, and additional field notes observed). These records are available to the owner or any inspector upon request.

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What training does Filterra provide for maintenance?

Filterra has developed a training DVD which covers all aspects of the maintenance steps needed to meet our specifications. Along with this instructional DVD, Filterra field crew representatives are available to perform on-site maintenance training and answer any necessary questions. There may be charges accrued for performing this maintenance on the installed Filterra unit.

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Who takes care of the units after installation?

A 1 year maintenance agreement is included with the purchase of each unit. This maintenance agreement begins the day the unit is activated, or becomes operational. Filterra also offers an extended maintenance agreement to continue to maintain the units after the first year. If no agreement is been reached, it is ultimately the site owner’s responsibility to provide regular scheduled maintenance that conforms to the manufacturer’s specifications.

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How are the units maintained?

Maintenance is simple, safe and inexpensive. It typically takes less than 30 minutes to maintain 1 unit. Trash and heavy sediments accumulate on top of the mulch and is typically all that is removed. This waste is easily removed and disposed of in trash bags or buckets. Fresh mulch is then replaced on top of the engineered media and not removed until the next maintenance visit. Hardwood mulch is a highly effective and an inexpensive pretreatment layer that protects not only the engineered media but also the plant in all weather conditions.

Filterra currently includes a 1-year maintenance agreement with the purchase of each unit. The maintenance agreement begins when the system is placed in full operation (complete system installed: curb and gutter and transitions in place, temporary throat protection removed by the Supplier, and plant installation).

Materials and services included in the 1-year maintenance agreement are:

  • Overall unit inspection
  • Additional mulch as needed
  • Addition of engineered media as needed
  • Pruning as needed (usually seasonal)
  • Visual inspections with appropriate service at six month intervals
  • Removal of sediment, litter, and foreign debris
  • Maintenance records updated and stored (reports available upon request)

It is the responsibility of the owner to provide adequate irrigation year-round to the plant within the Filterra system.

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When does maintenance begin on my units?

Filterra maintenance period begins on the day which the unit was opened up, or activated. Filterra will perform all required maintenance as scheduled for the first year, which is included in the purchase agreement.

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Quick Links

  • Request DAKit: Design assistance stormwater
  • How the Filterra Stormwater Bioretention Management System works