Septic System Perc

The percolation test is only a small part of a complete site evaluation, but it is vital not only for the successful design of an on-site sewage treatment system but for the legal ability to build one in the first place.

The percolation tests are designed to simulate conditions in a septic system. Most septic fields consist of a series of trenches about two feet deep.

Therefore, the percolation test holes are dug to a depth of two feet. In addition, since the soil in a typical septic field is wet all the time, it is necessary to duplicate that condition by prolonged soaking of the test holes. This process is called the "presoak".