At what perc rate should a leaching system be designed to account for potential water absorption issues?

A leaching system, also known as a septic system drain field, is designed to effectively handle the effluent from a septic tank and allow it to be absorbed into the surrounding soil. The perc test, or percolation test, measures the rate at which water is absorbed by the soil. When designing a leaching system, it's crucial to ensure that this absorption rate is adequately slow, as this allows for proper treatment of the effluent and minimizes the risk of oversaturation, which can lead to system failure or contamination.

A slower than 1 minute per inch perc rate generally indicates denser or less permeable soil. This slower absorption rate provides the necessary time for bacteria and other microorganisms in the soil to effectively treat the wastewater before it reaches the groundwater. By accounting for potential water absorption issues, a system designed at this rate risks operating more efficiently and reduces the likelihood of a saturated drain field, which could harm both the septic system and the surrounding environment.

In contrast, faster rates could lead to inadequate treatment of wastewater, increased surface water runoff, or even the failure of the septic system as it may not have enough time for natural filtration processes to occur. Hence, designing a leaching system for a slower perc rate ensures that the system functions effectively