At its core, a percolation test (often referred to as a "perc test") is a method used to determine the rate at which water absorbs into the soil. In Brockenhurst, where many properties are unconnected to the main sewage network, this test is the first step in designing a private drainage system, such as a septic tank or a sewage treatment plant with a drainage field (also known as a soakaway).
The test measures soil porosity. If the soil absorbs water too quickly, there is a risk that effluent will not be sufficiently treated before it reaches the groundwater, posing a contamination risk. Conversely, if the soil absorbs water too slowly, the drainage field could become waterlogged, leading to surface flooding and system failure. The results of the test dictate the size and layout of the drainage field required to serve a property. percolation test in brockenhurst
Emily, the homeowner, stood anxiously outside with her husband, Tom, and their two kids, Jack and Lily. They watched as the testing equipment arrived, accompanied by a friendly engineer named Mike. Mike explained that the test would measure how quickly the water would drain into the soil. At its core, a percolation test (often referred
He started his phone’s stopwatch. The first hour was agony. The water level dropped only a centimetre. He imagined the water molecules panicking, finding no escape, just slick, impervious clay. He thought of the bank manager’s thin smile, Jess’s worried silences at 2 a.m., the way his daughter had started calling their rented flat “the temporary home.” If the soil absorbs water too quickly, there
The family let out a collective sigh of relief. Emily exclaimed, "That's fantastic news!" Tom ruffled Jack's hair, saying, "Looks like we're going to have a great backyard, buddy!" Lily, excited by the prospect of a new home, started dancing around the garden.
: Dig at least three test holes (usually 300mm square and 300mm deep below the proposed inlet pipe).
: Refill the holes to a specific level and time how long it takes for the water to drop (e.g., from 75% to 25% full).