Why a Percolation Test for Septic Tank is Crucial for Your Health and Environment
Adding a septic system to your property can be a crucial step in protecting the health and safety of your family and the environment. However a properly functioning septic system requires more than just installing a septic tank and a drain field. The soil in the leach field area must be sufficiently permeable to absorb the liquid effluent flowing into it. If it lacks the necessary absorption capacity, untreated effluent may back up and contaminate groundwater and surface water sources. This is why a percolation test for septic tank is essential.
What is a Percolation Test for Septic Tank?
A percolation test, often referred to as a perctest, is a soil test that measures the level of liquid absorption of the soil where the proposed septic tank will be located. This test determines how quickly the material from the septic system will be absorbed into the soil. The test involves digging test holes and measuring the time it takes for water to drain through the soil. The results of the test are expressed in minutes per inch (MPI) and are used to determine the suitability of the site for a septic system.
