An audiovisual septic alarm without the need for an electrician was the inspiration for Mark Hayes, founder and owner of Minnesota Geotechnical Services when developing the solar powered Nomad Tank Alarm.

For most areas across the U.S., holding tanks positioned near lakes or waterways are legally required to have an alarm to signal failure. “A homeowner may want an audio alarm, but to do that requires electrical hookup to the tank,” Hayes says. “This can either be extremely expensive or impossible, depending on the lot dynamics.”

After extensive research and development, the final product runs on a rechargeable 9-volt battery powered by two 12-volt solar panels, and uses a blocking diode. “The blocking diode is needed to stop the electrical leaching of the batteries overnight,” Hayes says. “Not difficult to do, but it was a hard lesson to learn as to why my batteries were dead in the morning.”

Users will also find the Nomad equipped with a weatherproof audio switch that can silence an alarm, but leave the visual light on. A voltage meter is also standard so owners can measure and ensure the batteries are holding a charge. “This is because the batteries are susceptible to extreme heat like in Arizona in the summer and extreme cold like that of Minnesota even though it is vented,” Hayes says. “Also, the batteries are 100% recyclable.”

Mounting the device is extremely easy with either a 4- or 6-inch inspection pipe. “It takes less than 15 minutes.” Hayes says. “It can also be mounted to go through maintenance hole risers, but that does require some digging.”

Any septic system requiring an audiovisual alarm, whether it is a holding tank or a lift station, is a fit for the Nomad. Hayes says it is even possible to wire an effluent filter into it by removing the ball float and hardwiring the effluent wiring directly into the Nomad.

Utilizing technology as it becomes available is par for the course for Hayes. In the past, sourcing sounders and lights compatible with solar technology and 9-volt rechargeable batteries was extremely difficult. But in the past seven years, he has seen vast advancements in that area. “That is why this is Nomad v6, and version 7 is on its way because of technological improvements,” he says.

“Installers that have bought them are impressed,” Hayes continues. “They particularly like the height because it would be exceedingly difficult to damage the solar cells or electrical box.” 320-980-6218; www.water-tech-5667.myshopify.com