California Wastewater Treatment Operator Practice Exam 2025 - Free Wastewater Treatment Operator Practice Questions and Study Guide

The correct flow rate to use for calculating the hydraulic loading to a trickling filter is indeed the plant influent plus the recycled flow. This is because the hydraulic loading reflects the total volume of wastewater that is being treated within the trickling filter.

The influent flow represents the raw wastewater entering the treatment facility, and it is critical because it contains the necessary organic material and nutrients that the microorganisms in the trickling filter will process. Additionally, when recycled flow from the effluent is added back into the process, it can enhance the treatment efficiency by maintaining higher concentrations of active microorganisms and providing additional nutrients for biological growth.

By combining both the influent and the recycled flow, you can accurately assess the total hydraulic loading on the trickling filter, which is essential for ensuring effective operation and performance of the treatment system. Proper management of hydraulic loading has direct implications for the filter's efficiency and the overall success of the wastewater treatment process.