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.
- The distribution box basically takes all the overflow (or as much as can be handled) from the system and distributes it evenly throughout your leachfield or drainfield. The box is roughly the size of large cinderblock, normally constructed of concrete and is water tight. See Below:
How much does it cost to replace a distribution box on a septic system?
Concrete distribution box – a distribution box or D-box for short is a smaller tank that distributes the liquids out to the leach field. The average cost to replace a distribution box is between $600-1300.
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.
What is a distribution box on septic system?
The distribution box is a component of the leach field system. The job of the distribution box is to evenly distribute the wastewater into the leach field (also known as the drain field). This allows the water to flow into the box from the septic tank and then onto the leach field.
How far is the distribution tank from the septic tank?
Common guidelines require at least 50′ clearance distance between a well and a septic system tank or 150′ between a well and a septic drainfield or leaching bed but you will see that different authorities may recommend different distances. Local soil and rock conditions can make these “rules of thumb” unreliable.
How big is a distribution box?
The D-box is normally not very deep, often between 6″ and two feet to the top of the box. You may also see a pattern of parallel depressions, typically about 5 feet apart, that mark the individual drainfield leach lines. The D-box will at or near end of the drainfield area that is closest to the septic tank.
How long do distribution boxes last?
The steel tanks can last about fifteen to twenty years. They will need to be replaced after this time, as they tend to rust. It takes about forty years for a concrete septic tank to last.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Where is my septic tank distribution box?
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.
How big is a leach field?
The leach field is a series of trenches that may be up to 100-feet long and 1 foot to 3 feet in width, separated by six feet or more, depending on local requirements, and sometimes constructed leaving space between the original lines to install replacement leach lines when needed.
How close can you build next to a drain field?
– A full foundation must be 10 feet from the septic tank and 20 feet from the leaching area. – A slab foundation such as a garage must be 10 feet from the septic tank and 10 feet from the leaching area. – Concrete columns for a deck must be 5 feet from the leaching area and not disturb the septic system.
How far should a soakaway be from a septic tank?
Minimum distances that the drainfield should be from: Buildings – 15 metres. Boundaries – 2 metres. Water abstraction point (well, spring, bore hole) – 50 metres.
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
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How to Find the Distribution Box of a Septic Tank
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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Regular inspections of the distribution box as part of normal septic tank maintenance can help to verify that everything is going well.
- You may also inspect the distribution box for damage and assess whether it is necessary to replace it.
- 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.
- 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.
- Distribution boxes are typically just 6 inches to 2 feet deep, depending on the manufacturer.
- 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.
- Be aware that some smaller systems may not have distribution boxes, while most systems do have distribution boxes.
- 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.
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.
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:
- 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
Take note if you see flooding in a particular section of your drainfield.
It’s possible that your distribution box has been damaged or obstructed, and it will need to be fixed or replaced. This can occur for a variety of causes, including the following:
- Natural wear and tear
- Sludge accumulation
- Improper septic system maintenance
- Invading tree roots
- Driving heavy machinery over the box
- Flooding and other severe weather conditions
- And other factors
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
Known as the D-box, the distribution box is an essential component of any sewage disposal system. Effluent (wastewater) exits the septic tank and enters the distribution box, where it must be uniformly split and sent to the leaching system, as described above. It is vital that they are leveled in order to avoid unequal distribution, which is a major cause of failing leach fields. Equalizers such as Polyloks can be used to level off an uneven D-boxes. Adding water to the D-box is the quickest and most accurate technique to check for levelness.
It is possible that the fluid flow will be uneven or irregular, resulting in the effluent not being evenly dispersed over the leach field.
It is occasionally necessary to employ distribution boxes to monitor the effluent that is being discharged into the leach field.
Distribution Boxes in Five Sizes
The precast concrete distribution boxes offered by A.J. Foss are available in six different sizes, ranging from five outlets to twenty-eight outlets, to match our complete line of septic tanks.
- The precast concrete distribution boxes offered by A.J. Foss are available in six sizes, ranging from five outlets to twenty-eight outlets, to compliment our comprehensive line of septic tanks.
Distribution Box Dimensions may be found here. H-20 Distribution Boxes are available for purchase. For usage underneath driveways, parking lots, and high traffic locations, we also have H-20 Distribution boxes available.
They are available in three different sizes: 14 outlets, 18 outlets, and 24 outlets. Please contact us for the specific measurements that are available. Plastic distribution boxes are also available; please contact us to discuss your specific requirements and requirements.
The Polylok Dipper Box is currently available.
- Ensures that all doses are consistent and equivalent Distribution to each outlet on an equal basis
- Maintenance-free
- It’s as simple to set up as a standard d-box.
High-Quality Concrete Distribution Boxes
Using high-quality 5,000 psi concrete that is frequently tested in accordance with ASTM C31 and C39 quality testing criteria, our crew constructs each precast concrete distribution box by hand. AASHTO M 85 criteria are met by our Type III high early strength cement, which is tested on a monthly basis to assure compliance with ASTM Standard C 150 and AASHTO M 85 specifications. In our distribution boxes, we employ Polylok Low Pressure Pipe Seals to keep the water out. These seals do not require any sealing or mortaring and may accommodate pipe diameters ranging from two to four inches.
- Contact us to discuss your wastewater and stormwater projects in New Hampshire, Maine, and Northern Massachusetts that require wastewater and stormwater products, and see for yourself what the A.J.
- a little about the author: The Andrew J.
- precast concrete firm was founded by my father in 1963 when he was just 19 years old.
- Everything I know about producing high-quality precast concrete goods, from septic tanks to concrete headwalls, was passed down to me by him.
- Together with my brother Matthew, I am now the sole owner of our family-owned precast concrete firm, and we have used all we’ve learned from our father to launch the next generation of our family-owned precast concrete company.
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. Allow me to go into further detail about what the D-box is meant to perform and some of the issues you can have if yours is clogged with water.
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.
- This movie provides a very succinct review of everything.
Why is My Distribution Box Full of Water?
It’s clear now that you understand how the distribution box works (assuming you didn’t already know how it worked, that is), why it shouldn’t be filled with water. Maybe if you were experiencing a really strong rain that had been going on for hours and then did a load of laundry, the D-box would momentarily be full since the leach field was saturated from the heavy rains and adding a washing machine full of water would make the D-box temporarily full. But even if it were, I’m not convinced it would be completely packed.
So, what may be the source of your D-overflowing box’s water supply?
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 scenario, though it is not good news.If the drain field is failing, it means that the water is not draining as quickly as it should, and the water is pooling in the leach lines, leaving the distribution box water with nowhere to go.A drainfield can fail if the ground has become compacted from driving over it or parking on it.An above ground pool over the leach field can also compress the dirt.A drainfield can appear to be failing if the ground has become
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?
If you have a septic system, you are most certainly familiar with the fundamentals of the system as well as how to maintain your system. Most septic system owners are aware that having their tanks pumped every two to five years is necessary in order to maintain a working and effective system. There are, however, other components to the septic system, and one important component is the distribution box, which is also known as the d-box in some circles.
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 typically constructed of concrete, fiberglass, or plastic materials. In terms of size and shape, it can vary depending on the septic requirements of the household. It is a box with an inlet pipe to receive water from the tank and numerous outlet holes to disperse the treated water through a network of field lines, as described above. These outlet holes can be adjusted to accommodate varying water flow conditions. It is typically buried only one to three feet beneath the surface of the ground.
The durability will be determined by a variety of factors, including the maintenance you provide to your septic system, the type of materials used to construct the distribution box, and the weather. If you don’t abuse your concrete d-box, it can last 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).
- Flooding induced by storms or strong rains may cause the d-box to overflow.
- Because of the freezing water, bottlenecks and potentially even breaks in the container might occur depending on the condition of your distribution box.
- 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.
- The first step, though, is to be aware of the potential issues that may arise.
- If the distribution box is not supported by a solid base, it is more likely to alter position in the future.
- Remember to discuss this with your septic installation firm before beginning the installation of a new septic system.
- If you are experiencing freezing issues, the most likely cause is that your system does not have enough of a slope.
- It is more likely that the water will freeze if it is not moved through the operation rapidly enough.
- Simple things you can do as a homeowner will make a significant impact, such as flushing toilet paper after you use it.
- Keep track of how much water you use in your home and be conscious of it.
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.
Their sophisticated instruments and in-depth knowledge of septic system design ensure that you will be in excellent hands during the whole process. Please contact your septic provider if you have not had your distribution box examined in the past 30 days.
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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.
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. The following are the applications and advantages:
- 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)
- When varying trench lengths are required to accommodate structures, trees, and other obstacles
- Ability to create and link additional trenches as needed
- 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.
- 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
- When it is possible to construct trenches of similar length
- 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!
