FujiClean CEN Series Receives NC Innovative Wastewater System Approval
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has officially approved FujiClean USA’s CEN Series advanced wastewater treatment systems under Innovative Wastewater System Approval IWWS 2024-03. This approval, effective November 6, 2024, recognizes the system's capability to meet TS-I and TS-II effluent standards for residential and commercial applications in the state.
FujiClean is a global leader in decentralized wastewater treatment, with a legacy spanning over 60 years. Founded in Japan, the company has been at the forefront of advanced onsite wastewater treatment technologies, developing highly efficient, compact, and energy-saving systems. FujiClean has installed over 2 million systems worldwide, making it one of the largest manufacturers of aerobic treatment units (ATUs).
The company's focus on biological treatment efficiency, durability, and sustainability has positioned it as a trusted name in residential, commercial, and municipal wastewater solutions. With a strong presence in North America, Australia, and Europe, FujiClean continues to advance innovative, low-maintenance treatment systems that meet strict environmental and regulatory standards across the globe.
About the FujiClean USA CEN Series
FujiClean USA’s CEN5, CEN7, CEN10, CEN14, and CEN21 models are advanced wastewater treatment systems designed for onsite treatment and nutrient reduction. Each system is a self-contained fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) vessel with three treatment chambers:
Primary Settling Chamber – Functions as a septic tank, separating solids and allowing for sludge storage.
Anaerobic Treatment Chamber – Includes fixed-film plastic media, providing a surface for microbial growththat aids in denitrification and additional treatment.
Aerobic Treatment Chamber – Uses fixed-film media and aeration to further break down organic matter before effluent discharge.
The entire system operates using a single linear diaphragm blower, reducing energy consumption and maintenance needs.
Where Can These Systems Be Used?
The FujiClean CEN Series is approved for treating domestic wastewater flows up to 3,000 gallons per day (gpd). Any installation exceeding this flow requires additional state review or must be issued as an EOP (Engineer Option Permit). Systems can be designed by an Authorized Onsite Wastewater Evaluator (AOWE) or Engineer authorized by the manufacturer. For commercial and high-strength wastewater applications, a North Carolina-licensed Professional Engineer (PE) must be involved in the design.
Installation and Site Considerations
Siting & Setback Requirements – Systems must follow 15A NCAC 18E setback regulations to ensure proper separation from wells, property lines, and surface water bodies.
Dispersal Field Compatibility – The system can be used with drip irrigation and other approved dispersal methods, as specified in 15A NCAC 18E .1204.
Buoyancy Considerations – On sites with high groundwater, follow the manufacturers guidance and buoyancy calculations to ensure system stability.
Disinfection for TS-II Applications – Systems designed to meet TS-II standards require an approved UV disinfection system, such as the Longwave 3-G UV unit.
Traffic Restrictions – These units must not be placed in driveways, parking areas, or any surface subject to vehicular traffic.
System Operation, Maintenance & Monitoring
Like other advanced pretreatment systems, the FujiClean CEN Series requires ongoing inspection, sampling, and maintenance:
Annual Inspections – Required for systems ≤1,500 gpd. Systems >1,500 gpd must be sampled twice per year.
Effluent Monitoring – All systems must be tested for BOD₅, TSS, and NH₃. TS-II systems also require Total Nitrogen (TN) testing.
Operator Requirements – A North Carolina-certified subsurface operator authorized by the manufacturer must oversee system operation, reporting, and compliance.
Reporting & Compliance – Operators must submit detailed inspection reports within 30 days of each site visit, documenting aerator function, effluent clarity, pump performance, and structural integrity.
What This Means for North Carolina’s Onsite Wastewater Industry
The approval of FujiClean USA’s CEN Series provides septic installers, AOWE’s, engineers, and system designers with an additional option for advanced wastewater treatment and nutrient reduction in North Carolina.
Flexible Treatment Applications – Approved for TS-I and TS-II wastewater treatment, making it suitable for various residential and commercial projects.
Efficient Design – The compact size and single-blower system reduces power consumption and footprint compared to traditional multi-component systems.
Alternative to Conventional Systems – Provides an option for sites requiring advanced treatment or nitrogen reduction.
For full details on the FujiClean CEN Series approval, installation guidelines, and regulatory requirements, visit www.fujicleanusa.com. To read the full approval click here.
With this new approval, wastewater professionals in North Carolina have another state-recognized solution for treating onsite wastewater while maintaining compliance with evolving regulations.