How do you know your soil is suitable for your septic system? What is good soil for septic systems?
The IWT team experts breakdown some of the key information you should know!!
The on-site assessment identifies two main properties of the soil: its ability to disperse effluent (permeability or hydraulic conductivity), and whether or not the effluent will be treated before reaching groundwater or bedrock. This is done by assessing different soil for septic systems, their properties and performing a percolation test.
Perc test pit
Certain types of soils are better at treating sewage than others. A soil assessment determines not only the type of soil, but also certain properties that are directly related to its ability to treat sewage. These properties include:
Soil analysis
- Texture: This allows us to estimate pore sizes in the soil. The field method is ‘texture by feel’ in which a flow chart is used as the soil is manipulated by hand.
- Structure: This is the naturally occurring aggregation of particles into a larger form, often called a ped. Unless the soil is structureless, it tends to break up into these peds. These structures can play a role in porosity and water movement within the soil.
- Density: This also has an effect on the porosity of the soil, in turn affecting its permeability. The more compact the soil is, the less permeable it becomes. The field test is performed by probing the soil with a rod. This gives a very general estimate as to its compaction/density.
Colour: The colour of soil and soil layers can indicate whether it has good/poor drainage. In general, if drainage is good it is typical to for the soil to have bright colours and clearly defined soil layers. Dull/grey colours and mottles appear in poorly drained soils, although may not always be an indicator of saturated soils or seasonal water tables. These colours are controlled by redox reactions and translocation of C, Fe, Mn, and S compounds in the soil.
These are the main properties, but are not limited to the above. They are also observed in each horizon during a soil assessment.
At Island Water Technologies we offer a full range of on-site septic services. We have a certified site assessor who can both assess soil for septic systems and design on-site sewage systems, as well as engineering capability that can provide design services such as:
- Sewage disposal systems over 1,500 gal/d
- Advanced wastewater treatment systems
- Commercial & residential septic systems
- Alternative effluent disposal
- Wasteater planning & management studies
- Inspection & evaluation of current wastewater infrastructure
For more information call Mike Deighan at +1 902 940 0836 or email info@islandwatertech.com
Michael Deighan – Septic System Expert
