Experienced Land Surveyors and Excavators Conducting Percolation Tests in Maryland Since 1972

Percolation tests are designed to measure the soils ability to absorb liquid. Designed to simulate conditions in a septic system, percolation tests will determine the suitability of a location for a septic system. The results gathered from these tests are used to properly construct septic systems to code.

The percolation test consists of a hole 6-12 inches wide, dug in the designated area of a proposed septic system. The depths vary depending on the soil types. The hole is filled with approximately 12 inches of water to conduct the test. The speed at which the water drops in the hole is measured at 1 inch intervals over a period of time ranging from 30-60 minutes. Generally, less than 30 minutes is ideal in Carroll County. Generally speaking, you need three good percolation test inside of a 10,000 square foot area to have an approved septic system. The average percolation test times for three tests are then averaged which determines the size of the septic system. For example, if the water dropped consistently 1\2 inch every ten minutes the rate would be 20 minutes per inch. The Health Code provides a simple table that determines the size of the system based on the measured perc rate and the number of bedrooms in the home. The larger the number of bedrooms and the slower the percolation rate, the larger the system required.

Checkout some of RTF Associates, Inc. Percolation Tests. Need to test your soils, perc for an existing or replacement septic system, Contact the professionals at RTF Associates, Inc. for your free quote.