Welcome to Pro Drainage Group, the United Kingdom’s prime specialists in domestic and commercial sewage treatment plants. We’re proud to be renowned as the country’s foremost authority in installing, repairing, and maintaining all kinds of sewage treatment plants.
When it comes to rural living or properties not connected to municipal sewage lines, understanding the intricacies of your wastewater treatment is crucial.
One component that often doesn’t get the attention it deserves is the drainage field—also known as a leach field or infiltration system. This feature plays a vital role in the final stage of wastewater treatment, offering an eco-friendly way to disperse liquid waste into the soil.
What is a Drainage Field?
A drainage field is essentially a subsurface wastewater disposal system that takes the effluent from a septic tank or treatment plant and disperses it into the ground. The field consists of a series of perforated pipes, usually made of PVC, laid out in trenches filled with gravel. As wastewater flows out through these pipes, it is further treated by the soil, which acts as a natural filter.
Why is it Important?
Natural Filtration: The soil acts as a biological filter, removing harmful bacteria and other contaminants from the wastewater as it seeps through.
Environmental Protection: Properly designed and maintained drainage fields help prevent the contamination of local waterways, a critical factor in safeguarding local ecosystems.
Regulatory Compliance: A well-functioning drainage field is often required to meet environmental regulations and guidelines, especially for off-mains sewage systems.
Get in Touch
The effectiveness of a drainage field depends largely on the soil type. Percolation tests are typically performed to determine how quickly the soil can absorb water.
The field must be adequately sized based on the amount of wastewater generated. Local regulations may also dictate the minimum size and layout of the drainage field.
Proximity to water sources, depth of the water table, and other environmental factors need to be considered when choosing the location for a drainage field.
Regular inspections are necessary to ensure that the drainage field remains effective. Signs of failure include soggy ground, foul odours, or the appearance of untreated wastewater on the surface.
Contact Us
Below are some common issues that may occur with a Drainage Field along with our recommended solutions.
Over time, the perforated pipes can get clogged due to sludge or root infiltration. Regular maintenance can help identify and remedy this issue.
Excessive water usage can flood the system, reducing its effectiveness. It’s crucial to monitor your water consumption habits to avoid this problem.
Older drainage fields may suffer from wear and tear, necessitating repairs or replacement.
Get in Touch
Whether you’re a homeowner with an existing off-mains sewage system or you’re planning to build a new rural property, a well-designed drainage field is an investment in both your home and the environment.
If you would like to find out more about our Drainage Field services then please do get in touch with us. You can call us on 0800 511 82 99 or use the button below to send us an email. For your convenience, we have provided a contact form here for you to fill out in your own time. Once submitted, a member of our team will get back to you as soon as possible.
Email Us