Septic systems are kind of like humans – they all have brains. Some are simple. Some are a little complicated. And some are way bigger than they need to be.
Just about every wastewater treatment system has a control panel. The panel is the system’s brain. It manages, monitors, and protects equipment like pumps, blowers and sensors. It automates flow regulation and chemical dosing. And, in some cases, it provides a user interface that allows a human to monitor system data, troubleshoot, and adjust settings. Without a brain, the system simply would not function.
In a recent “Make It Clear” podcast, our hosts discussed controls and how to determine whether a spec’d panel is sized right for the system.
“Whether it’s an alarm panel, a simple control panel, something that actually has timers and counters in it, or something more advanced like VeriComm® or even a telemetry panel, the type of panel you need will be determined by the type of system,” says Angela Antonio, wastewater industry professional and co-host of “Make It Clear.”
For the homeowner or system installer, the best place to start is the actual drawings of the system, which should be available from the project lead.
“Make sure you see the drawings for the system you’re working on,” Angela says. “The drawings for that system should have a control panel listed. Make sure that the system and the panel match. For example, if the set of plans call outs an S1 and it has two pumps, that's not going to work.”
Another tip: Don’t waste time and money on a panel that’s too big. Sometimes, simple is best.
“You don’t need something that’s more complex than you need,” Angela said. “Some people just need something that’s going to turn the system on and off.”
Also ensure the plan specifications reflect the actual operation of the system, adds Shawn Rapp, “Make It Clear” co-host and longtime Orenco Systems employee.
“If it’s calling for ultraviolet disinfection but you don’t have a UV listed in the panel, then that’s going to be an issue,” he says.
For electricians installing septic system control panels, Angela and Shawn both advise verifying incoming power, checking fuses and sensors, and confirming outputs.
“And make sure the breakers in the house are big enough to handle the load that's going out to the system,” Shawn said. “The system requires a certain load, and if the breakers in the house aren’t big enough for that, the homeowners are going to end up tripping them all the time.”
Finally – and this is perhaps the most important tip of all – do not mount the control panel on a bedroom wall or any other surface of the actual home.
“It’s best to put it on a post next to the house,” Angela said.
Why?
“I can't tell you how many phone calls I took from homeowners saying, ‘I've got something on the outside of my house making this loud thumping noise at 3 a.m.’” recalled Shawn. “Yep – someone installed the panel outside on her bedroom wall.”
When it comes to the control panel on a septic system, it’s critical to understand your investment and take care of it.
“Treat it like an investment because that's what it is,” Angela said. “If you invest in something, or if someone is investing in you to design something and put it in the ground, you want to make sure that it’s right.”