Bio-Microbics FAST® Wastewater Treatment Systems
The world's most popular onsite wastewater treatment system — simple, low-cost, robust, and NSF/ANSI 245 certified for nitrogen reduction.
Simple. Low Cost. Robust.
The BioMicrobics FAST® (Fixed Activated Sludge Technology) system is a leading biological treatment process in the onsite wastewater field. In a FAST® system, the blower is the only moving part required for the treatment process — requiring no replacement parts over the life of its operation.
With over 80,000 systems installed in 80+ countries since 1996, Bio-Microbics is at the forefront of sustainable decentralized wastewater treatment. FAST® scales from single-family homes to small towns, with residential, commercial, and community applications.
How It Works
Four integrated stages deliver high-quality effluent through a continuous, self-regulating biological process.
Settling Zone
Settleable solids sink to the bottom of the tank and scum rises to the top. A SaniTEE® screen prevents trash from entering the treatment tank.
Aeration
An above-ground blower introduces oxygen into the tank, facilitating a robust circulation of oxygenated wastewater through the media. The blower can be installed up to 100 ft away.
Submerged Media
Abundant self-regulating microbes attached to the media decompose organic matter, nutrients, and pathogenic organisms in the wastewater.
Discharge
Treated water exits the system after passing a built-in baffle — clean, clear effluent meeting or exceeding state discharge standards.
FAST® System Product Lines
The right system for every application — from single-family homes to commercial facilities and communities.
RetroFAST®
RetrofitA retrofit for traditional septic tanks that provides advanced treatment. Ideal for upgrading existing septic tanks or renovating a drain field.
MicroFAST®
ResidentialVersatile and robust install-ready systems designed for individual homes, clustered homes, subdivisions, and other domestic-strength applications.
NitriFAST®
Nitrogen ReductionUsed as a second-stage treatment in series after a MicroFAST® system, providing additional nitrification and achieving even higher nitrogen reduction.
HighStrengthFAST®
CommercialMeets the challenges of high-strength wastewater. Provides treatment for higher BOD and TSS concentrations and higher influent FOG (grease) levels.
MyFAST®
Community / CommercialIdeal for small communities or larger commercial properties. Maintains consistently high performance with minimal maintenance.
Bio-Microbics Service by Blackwater Services
Blackwater Services is certified to install, maintain, and repair all Bio-Microbics FAST® systems. Our technicians are trained on all product lines including MicroFAST®, NitriFAST®, RetroFAST®, and HighStrengthFAST®.
- Blower inspection & servicing
- SaniTEE® screen cleaning & replacement
- Control panel diagnostics & repair
- NSF 245 nitrogen reduction system service
- RetroFAST® retrofit installation
- Full system design, permitting & installation
- State compliance reporting
- Emergency repair response
Maintenance Required by Washington State
All advanced treatment systems in Washington State must have an active certified maintenance provider. Blackwater handles all required inspections and compliance reporting for your FAST® system.
Schedule Your Bio-Microbics Service
Call us today to schedule service or enroll in a maintenance plan.
(425) 777-4545Bio-Microbics FAST® FAQs
What is the FAST® process?
FAST® (Fixed Activated Sludge Technology) is a leading biological treatment process. It uses a blower — the only moving part — to circulate oxygenated water through submerged fixed-film media where microbes break down organic matter. With SFR® (Sequencing Fixed Reactor) technology, the system achieves exceptional treatment performance.
Why does FAST® only have one moving part?
The FAST® treatment module uses a patented airlift device for mixing and oxygen transfer. The blower is the sole moving component, which means fewer parts to wear out, simpler maintenance, and greater long-term reliability compared to other advanced treatment systems.
Is Bio-Microbics certified for nitrogen reduction?
Yes. MicroFAST® and NitriFAST® units are NSF/ANSI 245 certified for nitrogen reduction, achieving at least 50% total nitrogen reduction — ideal for environmentally sensitive areas near waterways or areas with strict nutrient limits.
What sizes are available?
FAST® systems scale from small residential units (400 GPD) to large commercial and community systems (9,000+ GPD). MicroFAST® and NitriFAST® NSF-certified sizes range from 0.4 to 9.0 units. For very large applications, MyFAST® and MacroFITT® systems are available.
Can a FAST® system be retrofitted into my existing tank?
Yes. RetroFAST® is specifically designed as a retrofit module for existing conventional septic tanks, converting them to advanced aerobic treatment without full system replacement. This is a cost-effective solution for failing or underperforming systems.
Does Blackwater Services maintain Bio-Microbics systems?
Yes. Blackwater Services is certified to install, maintain, and repair all Bio-Microbics FAST® systems. We handle routine inspections, blower service, compliance reporting, and all repairs across Snohomish, Skagit, Island, and King Counties.
Have a Bio-Microbics FAST® System?
Blackwater Services is your certified FAST® maintenance provider. Call us to schedule service or ask about installation.
No obligation. Licensed & insured. Serving Snohomish, Skagit & Island Counties.