How Big Is A Septic Tank Junction Box? (Perfect answer)

• Septic Solutions offers the Polylok HDPE (High Density Polyethylene) Septic Distribution Boxes for sale. These distribution boxes are offered in 3 sizes: 4-Hole Distribution Boxes can handle up to 3 field lines, 6-Hole Distribution Boxes can handle up to 5 field lines, and 8-Hole Distribution Boxes can handle up to 7 field lines.

How big is a septic junction box?

These distribution boxes are offered in 3 sizes: 4-Hole Distribution Boxes can handle up to 3 field lines, 6-Hole Distribution Boxes can handle up to 5 field lines, and 8-Hole Distribution Boxes can handle up to 7 field lines.

How big is the distribution box on a septic tank?

Look for a depression in the ground a couple of feet in diameter and located between the septic tank and the drainfield. The D-box is normally not very deep, often between 6″ and two feet to the top of the box.

What is a septic junction box?

A septic tank’s distribution box (or D-box) is a container (typically concrete) that receives the septic tank effluent and re-distributes it into the network of attached drain fields and pipes. To put it simply, its job is to evenly distribute the wastewater into the leach field.

Do I need a distribution box for a septic system?

Distribution boxes are a small but very important part of a sewage disposal system. Effluent leaving the septic tank enters the distribution box; here the effluent must be uniformly divided and discharged to the drainfield system.

Can a distribution box get clogged?

One of the most common septic tank problems arises when the distribution box is damaged or clogged, preventing the flow of water from the septic tank into the drainfield. In most cases, a qualified plumber can fix this problem quickly and easily before it becomes a serious issue for the household septic tank system.

How much does it cost to replace a distribution box in a septic system?

Septic Distribution Box Replacement Cost Replacing a septic distribution box costs between $500 and $1,500. This component is also called the D-box. It is very important, responsible for controlling the even distribution of wastewater into the leach field.

How far down is a distribution box from the septic tank?

It’s usually somewhere near the edge of your drain field on the end that’s closest to your septic tank. Distribution boxes are usually only about 6 inches to 2 feet deep.

Does every leach field have a distribution box?

Distribution Box: Most, but not all, systems have a d-box. Once the effluent is separated in the septic tank, the distribution box, located in the leach field, dispenses the effluent into the leach field.

Does a distribution box have a lid?

Pre-cast concrete Distribution Boxes are sold usually by local septic tank and system suppliers and typically include gasketed openings for the effluent distribution pipe connections and a flat concrete lid that simply mates with the flat edges of the D-box without a gasket and without use of a sealer.

Can you have a dishwasher if you have a septic tank?

DON’T. use your dishwasher, shower, washing machine and toilet at the same time. All the extra water will really strain your septic system. put items down your sink or toilet that can easily be thrown into the trash.

Are dishwashers good for septic systems?

The dishwasher is not affecting the septic tank itself as long as you are using normal quantities of dishwasher detergent. IF choosing between two otherwise equal dishwashers, if you choose one that uses less water that further helps your drainfield.

Are garbage disposals bad for septic systems?

When you use a garbage disposal with a septic tank, the ground up food particles contribute to the layer of solids that is deposited on the bottom of your septic tank. There is no proof that these additives are useful, and in fact, they can be harmful to the delicate bacteria ecosystem in your septic tank.

Should a distribution box be full of water?

A septic system distribution box should not be full of water. As effluent water leaves the septic tank towards the drain field, it first enters the distribution box. If the distribution box is full, there is a problem with clogged leach lines or a failing drain field.

Can you use dishwasher salt with a septic tank?

Yes, you can! As you may know, bacteria in septic tank systems really do not like chemicals. Some care is required in order to conserve the good bacteria to ensure that you don’t kill them off!

What dish soap is septic safe?

Safest Dishwashing Detergents Dropps Dishwasher Pods. ECOS Dishmate Dish Soap. Method Dish and Dishwasher Soaps. Seventh Generation Dish Liquid.

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What is a Septic Distribution Box?

Riverside, California 92504-17333 Van Buren Boulevard Call us right now at (951) 780-5922. The bulk of your septic system is buried beneath the surface of the earth. The fact that it is out of sight means that many homeowners are not concerned with their garbage collection. However, whether you are planning a septic installation for new construction or feel that there is a problem with the drainage on your property, you should get familiar with the features of your existing system.

What Is a Septic Distribution Box?

The distribution box (or D-box) of a septic tank is a container (usually made of concrete) that absorbs septic tank effluent and re-distributes it into the network of drain fields and pipes that are connected to the tank. To put it another way, its function is to ensure that wastewater is distributed uniformly into the leach field.

How Does it Work?

The distribution box of a septic tank system is responsible for distributing wastewater from the septic system to the dispersion field in an even and consistent manner. When used in conjunction with other pipes, the D-Box links the septic tank as well as absorption devices, such as the drain field leach lines, to the drain field. The distribution box, like the majority of your septic system, is powered by gravity. It is known that liquid waste enters the box through a single pipe and is split equally in order to escape the box through the drain system.

In addition, the box features many holes that are equipped with spinning devices.

This function is essential for a properly functioning and dependable septic system.

This can cause the region to become overburdened, reducing the overall efficiency of the field. Over time, the distribution box’s integrity might deteriorate, necessitating its replacement.

How Do I Find My Septic Tank Distribution Box?

• The position of the distribution box is mostly determined by the amount of space available and the configuration of the septic system’s drain field. Your distribution box is most likely to be positioned near the border of the drain field, closest to where the septic tank is located if your layout is comprised of a rectangular and level drain site
• Otherwise, your layout is not likely to be comprised of a rectangular and level drain site. A couple of feet in diameter dip in the earth between the septic tank and drain field can also be found
• This is another option.

While a D-box does not require frequent pumping in the same way as a septic tank does, it should be examined to ensure that it is in proper operating order. Checking your system periodically helps to verify that it is operating correctly before severe problems arise or warning flags appear. By using a proactive approach, you may make tiny tweaks or fixes as needed, so avoiding significant difficulties, failures, or backups that might otherwise occur. A concrete D-box may normally endure for up to 20 years in most conditions.

The following are some critical points to check on your distribution box:

1. Outlet Apertures– The majority of well-designed systems will enable the outlet openings to be altered in order to regulate the flow if it is necessary. If a D-box has tilted or tipped, this might result in distribution to just one area of leach fields, which could result in overflow of effluent to the surface, or a backup of effluent into the system or a blockage. Inside– Issues with your system (past or current) might be indicated by the interior of your distribution box, such as flood lines.

COMMON DISTRIBUTION BOX PROBLEMS

The outlet apertures of the majority of well-designed systems will be able to be altered in order to control the flow if this is required. If a D-box has tilted or tipped, this might result in distribution to just one area of leach fields, which could result in overflow of effluent to the surface, or a backup of effluent into the system or a blockage; Inside– Issues with your system (past or current) might be indicated by the interior of your distribution box, such as flooding lines.

• The outlet apertures of the majority of well-designed systems will be able to be altered in order to manage the flow if necessary. Uneven Distribution– If a D-box has tilted or tipped, this might result in distribution to only one part of leach fields, which could result in overflow of effluent to the surface, or a backup or blockage in the system. Inside– Issues with your system (past or current) might be indicated by the interior of your distribution box, such as flooded pipes.

It is also possible for the pipes running to or from the box to get blocked or broken. Additionally, the spinning devices that are attached to the holes may malfunction, resulting in an unequal distribution of liquid.

How Can You Keep Your Distribution Box Functioning?

A correctly installed distribution box is critical to the proper operation of the device. It should be totally flat and no more than a foot below the surface of the earth in any direction. In addition, the system should be installed in accordance with the septic tank’s manufacture standards, whether those specifications call for a fiberglass, plastic, or concrete connection box. Pumping and inspecting your septic system on a regular basis might help your distribution box work effectively. Licensed professionals may inspect the box to make sure wastewater is being distributed appropriately throughout the drainage system.

If you address distribution box concerns as soon as possible, you may be able to protect your home and septic system from damage such as floods.

Call West Coast Sanitation Today!

We at West Coast Sanitation understand that you are busy and do not have time to deal with septic issues. One of the most effective methods to maintain this balance and ensure that your septic system continues to function properly is to have your tank pumped on a regular basis. Please contact us as soon as possible at (951) 780-5922. Thank you. If you have any questions, we have specialists standing by to help you resolve them and get your system back up and running.

Distribution Boxes

• Keeping an eye on your septic distribution box may assist guarantee that your septic system is running at peak capacity, which means that your wastewater is being dispersed evenly across your drain field and away from the house. A septic distribution box’s condition should be checked at least once every eight to twelve years throughout its first eight to twelve years of operation. Overloading will occur if the water levels in each trench receiving wastewater flow are not equal in each trench. This is the point at which septic system problems manifest themselves, and it is you and your property that bear the consequences. A properly functioning distribution box is critical to the entire operation of the system
• Thus, do not let malfunctioning components put you at risk! Septic distribution boxes from Shea Concrete Solutions are a key component of our amazing line of precast concrete septic products. Take a look at our catalog, which is shown below. For further information, please contact us at (800) 696-SHEA.

Distribution Box 5 Outlet

Credit: Mint Images/Mint Images RF/Getty Images for the image.

In This Article

• What is a distribution box
• Why should you look for one
• And how to locate one

When your septic tank is operating well, it is out of sight and out of mind, and you may not be aware of all of the subterranean components, such as the distribution box, until something goes wrong. One of the numerous septic tank inquiries that many homeowners have is where the various pieces are located.

The ability to understand what this little but critical component performs, where to find it, and what sort of care it required can assist you in keeping your septic tank in good working order.

What Is a Distribution Box?

Distribution box is a tiny box that is installed after the septic tank but before the drain field to distribute wastewater. In most cases, they are composed of either polymer plastic or concrete, and they have many apertures on various sides where the drain field lines are connected to the box. As an example, consider it to be a connection point for the lines that go throughout the leach field. The actual size and style of your system will be determined by your system. In order to ensure that the effluent from the septic tank is distributed uniformly over the drain field, it has been designed to do the following: In order to take advantage of gravity, the distribution box is often placed slightly downhill from the septic tank.

1. In addition, the box is often equipped with spinning components that aid in the distribution of consistent volumes of wastewater in different sections of the leach field.
2. The wastewater might gather in an uneven manner if this is not done, with some portions of the leach field receiving all of the wastewater and other regions receiving none.
3. Regular inspections of the distribution box as part of normal septic tank maintenance can help to verify that everything is going well.
4. You may also inspect the distribution box for damage and assess whether it is necessary to replace it.
5. Things such as driving over the box, tree roots growing into it, heavy sludge accumulation, and other damage to the box might compel you to replace it sooner than you would have otherwise thought necessary.
6. Due to its role in moving effluent from the septic system’s tank to the septic drain field, it seems logical that the box should be installed between them.
7. Distribution boxes are typically just 6 inches to 2 feet deep, depending on the manufacturer.
8. Site plans or a drawing of the authorized system design should still be available if you have them, and the distribution box should be clearly noted on them.
9. Be aware that some smaller systems may not have distribution boxes, while most systems do have distribution boxes.
10. It is possible to notice parallel depressions that represent the leach lines and can direct you to the distribution box in rare occasions.

By running a plumbing snake from the septic tank outlet to where it stops, which should be the distribution box, you may get a general estimate of how far it is to the distribution box.

Should a Septic Tank Distribution Box be Full of Water?

When we initially moved into our present home, which included a septic tank, I knew I wanted to learn everything I could about septic systems before we could utilize it. I was aware that they are buried underground, that they must be pumped out on a regular basis, and that they may be pricey. That was pretty much the extent of my knowledge. However, the distribution box has suddenly emerged as one of the components that is strangely intriguing. I honestly have no idea why this is happening. It took us a couple of years to realize that we even had a distribution box in the first place.

• If you’re wondering whether or not a distribution box should be filled with water, keep reading.
• After leaving the septic tank and making its way to the drain field, effluent water first passes through the distribution box.
• An overflowing distribution box indicates blocked leach lines or an overflowing drain field as the cause of the overflow.
• Of course, the bad news is that it is possible that there will be a serious problem with the leach field.

What is a Septic System Distribution Box?

First and foremost, it should be noted that not all septic systems are equipped with a distribution box. Older systems may not be able to do so. Given that you’re asking why one would be full, I’m going to presume you’re aware that you have one, correct? Despite its importance, the distribution box is one of the most underappreciated components of a sewage system. Basic systems include one pipe running from the home to the septic tank on one side, with all of the waste water from the house going into the tank.

• Meanwhile, microorganisms are hard at work breaking down all of the unpleasantness around the clock.
• (These are the same item, yet some people refer to it as one and others as the other.) (It’s pronounced Potahto.) The drain field is comprised of a number of long plastic tubes (usually 2–6) that have holes in them.
• The distribution box is responsible for ensuring that the effluent water is distributed uniformly amongst all of the leach lines.
• The pipe from the septic tank is linked to one end of the pipe, and then each of the leach lines is attached to the other end of the pipe.

Flowing water from the septic system enters the D-box, where it is distributed equally into each of the leach lines as it increases in water level. This movie provides a very succinct review of everything. It’s only one minute in length.

Why is My Distribution Box Full of Water?

As a disclaimer, not all septic systems are outfitted with a collection box. It’s possible that older systems won’t work. Given that you’re asking why one would be full, I’m going to presume you’re aware that you have one, right? Distribution boxes are critical components of a septic system that are generally underappreciated by the general public. Basic systems include one pipe running from the home to the septic tank on one side, with all of the waste water from the house flowing into the tank.

• The bacteria on the other hand, are working around the clock to decompose all of that icky material.
• This is the same thing; some people refer to it as one thing and others as another).
• Plastic tubes (usually 2–6) with holes are inserted into the drain field’s drain field.
• During the passage of water via the leach lines, effluent water seeps out of the holes and into the ground, where it is naturally filtered through the earth before returning to the water table, subterranean river system, or wherever it may end up.
• Concrete or plastic cubes are used to construct this structure.
• Flowing water from the septic system enters the D-box, where it is distributed equally into each of the leach lines as it increases in elevation.
• Only one minute has been allotted for this video.

You could have a clog

If the distribution box is consistently full, it is reasonable to conclude that there is a problem with the water departing or entering the system. This means there might be an obstruction in one or more of the leach lines, preventing water from flowing into them or draining out of them at a rapid rate. Roots from adjacent trees (which shouldn’t really be nearby) might be growing into the leach lines, and this could be the cause of the problem. It should not be choked by grass or wildflowers growing above the area, as the leach lines should be at least 18″ below the surface of the ground.

Alternatively, it might be clogged with debris from the septic tank, particularly from the sludge or scum layers.

If only the effluent water is present at the level of the outlet pipe, then the tank has not been pumped or treated frequently enough, and either the scum layer (fats, oils, floating things) has become too thick to allow it to drain too far down into the tank, or the sludge layer (poo) has become too thick to allow it to drain all the way up to the outlet level.

The Drain Field is Failing

I believe this is the most likely possibility, however it is not encouraging news for the time being. If the drain field is failing, it indicates that the water is not draining as rapidly as it should, and as a result, the water is pooling in the leach lines, leaving the water in the distribution box with nowhere else to go. Drainfields are susceptible to failure if the earth underneath them has become compacted as a result of vehicles driving over or parking on them. Aside from that, if you have an above-ground pool over the leach field, this can also cause the earth to be compacted.

I recall a homeowner whose neighbor had a lot of water overflow from his land, which I found to be a nuisance.

Fixing a Failing Drainfield

I don’t want to dive too much into the details of how to repair a failing drainfield at this point, but there are a variety of methods available depending on the situation. The land may be fractured if you put large amounts of air into it at high pressures and speeds. It’s possible that you’ll have to replace the complete drainfield or only a few lines. It depends, which I realize is not a very helpful response. They live next door to us, and their drainfield was wrongly placed long before they purchased the property.

It was a flop.

Catywumpus D-Box

The only other thing that may be causing the distribution box to remain full is if it is extremely slanted up in some way, such that the pipes leading to the leach field are angled up and the water is just having a difficult time getting into the distribution box. It would take a significant movement in the D-box to create that type of a complication. It is not impossible, but it is extremely unlikely.

Can I Fix My Clogged Leach Lines?

It is quite possible to check for and attempt to remove a blockage on your own if you are physically capable of doing so. If you’re not sure, give a septic company a call and inquire about how much it could cost for them to come out and inspect it. That alone could be enough to spur you on!

Sewer Jetting

If the problem is that the leach lines are clogged with things like dirt, biomat (biological material), or oily sludge, you may be able to solve the problem by using a sewer jetter kit such as this one to clean it out yourself. Pressure washer attachments and a range of heads are available for these tools. Simply attach the proper hose head to each leach line and feed it into the appropriate hose fitting. Turn it on and see if you can clear any clogs out of it. At least one of the heads is intended to spray forward, blasting up the blockage, and rearward at the same time, flushing the debris out of the line when you remove the home from the water supply.

It will begin to function when the level of water in the distribution box begins to fall. This really brief video demonstrates the procedure in action. Inquire with your local hardware shop to discover whether they provide these services on a rental basis.

Drain Line Auger

If the problem is that the leach lines are clogged with things like dirt, biomat (biological material), or oily sludge, you may be able to solve the problem by using a sewer jetter kit such as this one to clean them out. Pressure washer attachments and a range of heads are available for purchase separately. Simply attach the proper hose head to each leach line and feed it into the corresponding hose head. Try to clear any blockages out by turning it on. At least one of the heads is intended to spray forward, blasting up the clog, and rearward at the same time, flushing the debris out of the line when you remove the home from the water supply system.

It will begin to function when the level of water in the distribution box begins to fall significantly.

Inquire with your local hardware shop to see whether they provide these services on a temporary basis.

I do hope you are able to fix your issue quickly, easily, and inexpensively!

What is a Septic Distribution Box and how does it work?

What is a Septic Distribution Box?

The Septic Distribution Box is a type of septic tank that is used to distribute wastewater.

Parts of the Septic System

Photo courtesy of epa.gov A septic system is more than just a septic tank, as many people believe. The septic system works by channeling wastewater away from your home through pipes that lead to a holding tank where it may be treated. The effluent then passes through a series of additional pipes before reaching the distribution box. This little concealed box ensures that wastewater is distributed uniformly through field lines and onto the leach field (sometimes referred to as the drain field).

The Septic Distribution Box

The distribution box (also known as a d-box) is often constructed of concrete, fiberglass, or plastic materials. In terms of size and design, it might vary based on the septic requirements of the family. It is a box with an intake pipe to receive water from the tank and several outlet holes to disseminate the treated water across a network of field lines, as described above. These outlet apertures may be changed to accommodate varying water flow conditions. It is often buried only one to three feet beneath the surface of the earth.

If you don’t mistreat your concrete d-box, it can survive for twenty years or more.

Potential Problems with Your Distribution Box

In the event that you have had your septic tank recently examined and pumped but are still experiencing plumbing issues, you may want to have your distribution box inspected and repaired. In order to work effectively, your distribution box must be level. If there is an issue with the box, it might cause difficulties with the system. A distribution box problem is most usually indicated by either a pattern of plumbing difficulties that persist even while your tank is operational or floods in the leach field (or both).

1. Flooding induced by storms or strong rains may cause the d-box to overflow.
2. Because of the freezing water, bottlenecks and potentially even breaks in the container might occur depending on the condition of your distribution box.
3. Furthermore, trees or bushes that are placed too close together might cause harm if their roots grow down and shatter the pipes or the box that contains the pipes.
4. The first step, though, is to be aware of the potential issues that may arise.
5. If the distribution box is not supported by a solid base, it is more likely to alter position in the future.
6. Remember to discuss this with your septic installation firm before beginning the installation of a new septic system.
7. If you are experiencing freezing issues, the most likely cause is that your system does not have enough of a slope.
8. It is more likely that the water will freeze if it is not moved through the operation rapidly enough.
9. Simple things you can do as a homeowner will make a significant impact, such as flushing toilet paper after you use it.

Do not overburden your waste disposal with food scraps. Keep track of how much water you use in your home and be conscious of it. It is not permissible to drive over your leach field or to put huge trees or plants in that location.

How to Locate your Distribution Box

In contrast to your septic tank, your distribution box does not require regular pumping. However, it should be examined to minimize the high expense of unneeded repairs in the future. Close to the leach or drain field, the distribution box will be located a short distance downhill from the septic tank. You can seek for a depression in the earth in the vicinity of this location. Additionally, search for parallel depression lines in the ground (the field lines), which are approximately five feet apart, and trace them back until you reach the site of the box.

It will be helpful if you have a site plan, which is often provided to the homeowner at the time of installation.

It is also possible to have your septic provider locate it for you.

Please contact your septic provider if you have not had your distribution box examined in the past 30 days.

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ADS 4-in x 4-in Corrugated Distribution Box Fittings Lowes.com

Prices, promotions, styles, and availability are subject to change without notice. We do not honor online prices at any of our local locations. Prices and availability of products and services are subject to change at any time and without prior notification. If any mistakes are discovered, they will be addressed, and Lowe’s has the right to rescind any advertised offer and rectify any errors, inaccuracies, or omissions, even after an order has been submitted, without prior notice.

• Prices, promotions, styles, and availability are all subject to change without prior notice. We do not honor online pricing at any of our local locations. Prices and availability of products and services are subject to change at any time and without prior notification to customers. Lowe’s maintains the right to rectify any mistakes, inaccuracies, or omissions, even after an order has been made, and to withdraw any stated offer and to correct any errors, inaccuracies, or omissions.

OVERVIEW

Prices, promotions, styles, and availability are subject to change. We do not honor online prices at our physical locations. Prices and availability of products and services are subject to change without notice. Whenever a mistake is discovered, Lowe’s will correct it, and Lowe’s has the right to rescind any advertised offer and correct any errors, inaccuracies, or omissions, even after an order has been submitted, at its sole discretion.

• The leaching system connects the wastewater drain pipes with the leaching system. Molded to accommodate up to eight input and exit pipes
• Because of its one-piece construction, the junction box is secure and leak-resistant. For long-term usage, it is resistant to corrosion and wear.

Specifications

Usage That Is Common It connects the wastewater drain pipes and the leaching system together. 15 degrees Fahrenheit is the bare minimum working temperature. 150 degrees Fahrenheit is the maximum working temperature. Measurement of Length 27-1/2-in Listed for your protection NSF safety certification

Gravity Distribution: Do You Need a Drop Box or Distribution Box?

As I go around the nation and speak with people about gravity distribution, one of the most noticeable differences I see is the manner in which wastewater is carried to the trenches. The amount of effluent that flows to gravity distribution systems is directly proportional to the amount of sewage that enters the septic tank. For example, anytime sewage enters the septic tank, effluent from the septic tank flows to the soil treatment area. In the United States, the most popular design for onsite treatment has been gravity distribution of septic tank effluent for much of the history of the industry.

Effluent travels downhill from its origins to the septic tank, and then on to the soil treatment system in either a serial or parallel distribution pattern, depending on the situation.

The purpose of both systems is to distribute wastewater evenly, which is made possible by the use of a biomat, as illustrated in the illustration below. Until the biomat reaches the end of a trench or trenches, it is impossible to achieve a totally uniform dispersion.

Serial Distribution

If you use serial distribution, septic tank effluent will flow into the first trench until the sewage has ponded and the trench is filled to its capacity. When the first trench is full, the effluent flows into the second trench until it is full as well, and finally into the third trench. Before wastewater is transferred to the second trench, the first trench should have reached its maximum capacity. The system is constructed of a waterproof pipe that runs from the septic tank to the first drop box, which is the most typical location.

• The distribution pipe of the trench is connected to the drop box by an outlet located at the bottom of the drop box.
• With the exception of the sequence in which the effluent is delivered to them, the trenches operate independently, with each receiving effluent according to the rate at which it is received in that trench.
• Those who have a tendency to drain fast, maybe as a result of receiving more sunlight on the surface and experiencing greater water loss through evaporation during the warmer months, will get more effluent.
• Therefore, there is no increase in effluent flow rate into or through the second or third trenches just because they are located downhill from the first trench.

1. Encourages the production of biomats and the flow of unsaturated water in sandy or coarse-textured soils. Sites with sloping terrain (no maximum slope restrictions)
2. When varying trench lengths are required to accommodate structures, trees, and other obstacles
3. Ability to create and link additional trenches as needed
4. Adaptability to changing conditions. A quick check of the box and the ends of the trenches is necessary. There is no standing effluent in the solid line that connects the septic tank to the drop boxes.

Parallel Distribution

It is the distribution of septic tank effluent by gravity flow, which loads all portions of the soil treatment and dispersal system at the same time and in the same proportion. The parallel distribution system distributes wastewater flow into all trenches in the soil treatment unit at the same time, allowing for more efficient treatment. Trenches are built to have the same length and depth as one another and to be appropriate for the same type of soil, ensuring that treatment proceeds at the same rate in each trench throughout the project.

• Typically, a distribution box is a device designed to transport septic tank effluent concurrently and equitably by gravity to numerous parts of a soil treatment and dispersal system.
• If there is no backflow problem, there may be high hydraulic head between the top of the system (the distribution box) and the trenches even if there is no backflow problem.
• Throughout their operational life, all trenches must have the same length and must be capable of treating the same quantity of effluent as their neighboring trenches do.
• In order to alleviate the challenges connected with distribution boxes settling, several technologies have been devised and tested.
• When a leveling device is put at the end of the 4-inch outlet pipes, the outlet inverts will be slightly leveled, which is desirable.
• It is possible to insert an outlet adjuster into each pipe exiting the distribution box by placing it within the distribution box and into each pipe leaving the distribution box.
• When one side of the distribution box settles, or when freeze-thaw activity or shrink-swell activity in the soil causes the distribution box to go slightly out of level, this system has the benefit of allowing readjustments to be performed without having to re-level the distribution box.

The following are the applications and advantages:

1. Sites with a 5 percent slope are level. In the case of sites with restricted separation to the limiting condition, the loss of elevation in the drop boxes may have an influence on the needed separation
2. When it is possible to construct trenches of similar length
3. In soils that include more clay and silt (as opposed to sand), to aid in the distribution of wastewater down the length of the trench

a little about the author: Sara Heger, Ph.D., is a researcher and lecturer in the Onsite Sewage Treatment Program at the Water Resources Center at the University of Minnesota, where she also received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in agricultural and biosystems engineering and in water resource science, respectively. She has presented at several local and national training events on topics such as the design, installation, and administration of septic systems, as well as research in the related field.

Email [email protected] with any questions on septic system design, installation, maintenance, and operation and Heger will respond as soon as possible!