Installing, upgrading, or repairing a septic system involves many decisions—and getting them right the first time saves time, money, and stress. Whether you are a seller preparing to list your property, a buyer navigating the purchasing process, or a contractor managing the project, this guide will help you navigate each step with confidence.
All new installations and some upgrades/repairs require a septic design approved by FBSD before construction can start.
Septic Tanks
Septic tanks are the bread and butter of your system. Choosing the right company to order from will save you future head aches.
Berg Vault: Precast Concrete Tanks: Mount Vernon, WA.
Berg Vault has been manufacturing high-quality precast concrete tanks since 1963. In addition to in-house fabrication, they provide delivery and installation services using their own hydraulic crane. This capability allows for tank placement in tighter or more challenging locations with greater ease and precision.
Contact number (360) 424-4999
Website: https://www.bergvault.com/
Bode's Precast Concrete – Everson, WA
Bode's Precast Concrete began manufacturing their own precast tanks several years ago and has quickly become a trusted local supplier. They focus on producing high-quality products that meet customer specifications while supporting environmental protection. Bode's offers delivery and on-site tank installation using their own crane, making it easier to place tanks in hard-to-reach locations.
Contact number: (360) 354-3912
Website: https://bodesprecast.com/contact-bodes-precast-concrete/
Lopez Ready Mix – Lopez Island, WA
Lopez Ready Mix partners with Bode's Precast Concrete to maintain an inventory of septic tanks on Lopez Island. This local availability eliminates the uncertainty of ferry schedules and canceled sailings, making the ordering process significantly simpler.
Delivery and Installation:
Contact Number: (360) 468-2485
Physical Address: 2969 Fisherman Bay Road.
Orenco M1500P DCPD Septic Tank: Approved Non-Concrete Alternative
When site conditions or accessibility challenges make a concrete tank impractical, FBSD may approve the use of the Orenco M1500P DCPD (Dicyclopentadiene) septic tank. This durable, non-concrete alternative is lightweight enough to be installed using standard-sized backhoes or excavators, offering flexibility for difficult-to-reach locations.
Important Note: FBSD approval must be obtained and specified in the design before purchasing this tank for your project.
This tank can be ordered on these websites:
o HD Fowler: https://www.hdfowler.com/
o Orcas sewage and design: https://orcassewagedesign.com/
Product Details:
Septic Tank Equipment
FBSD has specific products that we require to make sure your septic tank is up to the correct standards.
These items can be purchased from:
o HD Fowler: https://www.hdfowler.com/
o Orcas sewage and design: https://orcassewagedesign.com/
Pump Vault
The vault is essential because it houses the pump, floats and filters all in one package making separation of solids to liquids simple along with easy maintenance for FBSD staff.
Note: All vaults come in different sizes so make sure to ask what the right size is to order for the size of your septic tank.
Product details: https://odl.orenco.com/documents/BiotubeUniversalPumpVaults_TDS_Orenco_NTD-GOP-PVU-5.pdf
Submersible Effluent Pumps
This is the workhorse of your septic tank, sending all the Effluent (liquid wastewater) from your tank to the WWTP.
Product Details:
https://odl.orenco.com/documents/PF-Series60Hz1-PhaseEffluentPumps_TDS_Orenco_NTD-GOP-PMP-1.pdf
Note: when ordering a pump, the most common model used in FBSD is 10 GPM. If you have a larger system with multiple tanks connected to one pump tank, FBSD may require a 20-30 GPM pump.
Product code diagram/model # is PF 10 05 1 1
Float Switches
Each septic tank is equipped with two float switches, each serving a distinct function:
Pump Activation Float
The lower float triggers the pump to turn on when the liquid level in the tank rises high enough.
High-Level Alarm Float
The upper float activates an alarm on your control panel if the pump fails to activate or cannot keep up with the volume of incoming wastewater. This alerts you to a potential issue before a backup occurs.
Product Details:
https://www.shoppumps.com/v/vspfiles/pdf/sje_pumpmaster.pdf
External Electrical Splice Box
Every septic system includes a splice box that houses the electrical wires and connectors, protecting them from moisture and corrosion. The location and type of this box, however, can significantly impact the longevity and reliability of your system.
Older Systems: Internal Splice Boxes
In many older installations, the splice box is located inside the tank, typically mounted on the interior riser. Over time, the corrosive gases present in septic tanks can slowly erode the wires, leading to failure. Additionally, if a backup occurs, water intrusion can further compromise the electrical connections.
FBSD Standard: External Splice Boxes
To address these issues, FBSD now requires external splice boxes for all new installations and upgraded systems. Mounted on the outside of the tank riser, these boxes are sealed against moisture and isolated from corrosive tank gases, providing a more durable and watertight solution.
Product Details: https://odl.orenco.com/documents/ExternalSpliceBox_TDS_Orenco_NTD-SBEX-1.pdf
Electrical Control Panel
Your septic system's control panel functions as its central command center. Typically mounted on the side of your home or near your septic tank lids, the panel manages power to the pump, floats, and alarm system.
Two-Circuit Requirement
All new installations and system upgrades are required to feature a two-circuit control panel. Each breaker serves a distinct function:
Built-In Safety Feature
This dual-circuit design provides an important layer of protection. If the pump circuit trips for any reason, the alarm circuit remains active. This allows the alarm float to trigger an alert, notifying you of a problem before a backup can occur.
Product Details:
https://odl.orenco.com/documents/S-SeriesSimplexControlPanels_TDS_Orenco_NTD-CAP-SSP-2.pdf
Note: Most FBSD septic systems utilize the same standard control panel. When ordering, it is essential to specify the correct model to ensure compatibility and proper function.
Required Model: S1 IR1 Panel (No Additional Options)