What is "soil saturation" in relation to septic systems?

Soil saturation in the context of septic systems specifically refers to a condition where the soil is waterlogged and has reached its maximum water-holding capacity. When soil is saturated, it cannot absorb any additional water, which is critical for the proper functioning of a septic system.

In a septic system, wastewater is intended to be absorbed and treated by the soil. If the soil is already saturated, it cannot effectively filter and absorb the effluent from the septic system, leading to potential failures such as surface seepage or contamination of groundwater.

Understanding soil saturation is vital for septic system installation and maintenance, as it can impact the location, design, and sizing of the system. Proper assessment of soil saturation ensures that the septic system functions properly and maintains environmental health by preventing untreated wastewater from reaching the surface or contaminating water sources.