Why soil classes matter
Soil is part of the treatment system. The system is not just a tank and pipe. The soil must accept the effluent and provide treatment before wastewater reaches groundwater or surface water.
What to remember for the exam
- Different soils absorb wastewater at different rates.
- Fine-textured soils usually need more careful sizing than coarse soils.
- Bad soil conditions can limit or prevent a standard system.
- Soil class affects the amount of absorptive area required.
Exam trap
Do not assume every property can use a standard drainfield. The site conditions, setbacks, slope, restrictive horizons, and soil class matter.