SEPTIC SYSTEM (OWTS) DESIGN AND PLANNING
introduction
At Watermatic Systems, we specialize in designing and planning Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS) tailored to your property’s unique needs, ensuring compliance with provincial regulations and optimal performance. Our expert Installer/Planner/Designers take a comprehensive approach to create efficient, environmentally responsible septic systems that preserve your property’s natural beauty and functionality.
Our Design Process
1. Site Evaluation and Drawing: We begin by creating a detailed site drawing of your property, assessing the available area for your wastewater system. Our goal is to design a system that integrates seamlessly with your landscaping and natural features. The drawing includes the precise locations of utilities, such as your well and any adjacent public water sources, to ensure a safe and compliant layout.
2. Soil and Site Analysis: Our team evaluates your property’s soil conditions to determine its capacity to treat and absorb wastewater. We assess soil texture through field observations and confirm with laboratory analysis. Depending on local regulations, we may conduct a percolation or permeameter test to establish the effluent hydraulic loading rate. We also consider your domestic water quality, as elements like sodium or iron can influence system design.
3. Customized System Sizing: We gather information about your property’s structure—whether existing or planned—including its size, number of bedrooms, expected occupancy, and water usage patterns. For homes with high-volume appliances, water-intensive activities, or home-based businesses, we design systems with the capacity to handle increased wastewater loads. We calculate a peak daily flow rate (in gallons or liters per day) that meets or exceeds provincial regulatory standards.
4. System Recommendations: Based on the flow rate, available land, soil conditions, and proximity to public water, we recommend one or more septic system types suited to your property. Common systems in Western Canada include:
Septic tank with soil treatment field Septic tank with sand treatment mound
Advanced treatment unit with soil treatment component
Advanced treatment unit with at-grade soil treatment component
Note: Open Discharge (Ejector) systems are not permitted in British Columbia.
5. Regulatory Compliance and Permitting: We prepare and submit a detailed system design that complies with provincial regulations to the appropriate authority. This step is critical to obtain a construction permit or secure acceptance from the health authority. Once approved, installation can begin.
6. Installation and Inspection: After approval, our team oversees the installation process. In most jurisdictions, a final inspection is required before the system is completed. If no inspection is mandated, we provide as-built drawings and a Letter of Certification to confirm the system meets all standards.
Our Professional Expertise
Our professional engineers at Watermatic Systems are trained, certified, and experienced in the design of OWTS. They design systems in accordance with the Sewerage System Regulation (SSR) Public Act and conform to the Sewerage System Standard Practice Manual (SPM V3) of the Government of British Columbia. Our team meticulously conducts the following tasks:
• Site Assessment and Evaluation: Thorough analysis of your property to ensure optimal system placement.
• Soil Test Pitting and Percolation or Permeability Testing: Detailed soil assessments to confirm treatment and dispersal capabilities.
• System Selection and Design: Selection of the appropriate treatment system, design of initial and final treatment components, and effluent dispersal system, followed by preparation of a comprehensive plan package.
• Filing as an Authorized Person (AP): Submission of the design package to the relevant health authority for approval.
• Field Review and Inspection: Oversight during system installation to ensure compliance with the approved design.
• Issuance of the Letter of Certification (LOC): Certification upon completion to confirm the system meets all regulatory standards.
Our professionals bring extensive experience in designing and commissioning OWTS for both residential and commercial developments, ensuring reliable and sustainable wastewater solutions.
Watermatic Systems ensures your septic system is designed for durability, efficiency, and environmental protection. Our designs prioritize your property’s unique characteristics while adhering to the highest industry standards. Trust us to deliver a septic system that meets your needs and complies with all regulatory requirements.
