What is the minimum dosing frequency for a septic system using coarse sand media?

The minimum dosing frequency for a septic system utilizing coarse sand media is typically set at 18 times per day. This frequency is necessary to ensure that the system is properly operated, providing adequate treatment and preventing issues such as scouring or clogging of the media. Coarse sand media allows for improved drainage and aeration, which is essential for the biological processes that occur within the septic system. By dosing 18 times a day, the system can maintain an effective hydraulic loading rate, aiding in the optimal performance and longevity of the treatment process.

A lower dosing frequency, such as 4 or 12 times per day, may not be sufficient to adequately distribute the wastewater throughout the media, potentially leading to uneven treatment and system malfunctions. Meanwhile, dosing every 24 times a day, while it may seem beneficial for ensuring the system is constantly active, could also lead to overloading and inefficiency in the treatment process. Therefore, 18 times per day strikes a balance between providing adequate effluent distribution and maintaining the health of the aerobic processes that are key to the system’s performance.