Which factor does NOT influence the loading rate for residential effluent using gravity or pressure distribution?

The loading rate for residential effluent refers to the amount of wastewater that can be safely applied to the soil without causing environmental harm or system failure. Various factors influence this rate, primarily because they affect how well the soil can absorb and treat the effluent.

Soil type is crucial because different types of soil have varying abilities to absorb water and filter contaminants. For instance, sandy soils typically allow for faster drainage, while clay soils have a higher retention rate but slower permeability. Soil textural classification further refines this understanding by categorizing the soil based on its particle size distribution, which directly impacts its absorption and treatment capacity.

Loading rate calculations are a necessary consideration in determining how much effluent can be processed based on the characteristics of the system and the site. This includes factors like the volume of wastewater generated and the design of the septic system.

However, the age of the system does not directly influence the site's ability to process effluent. While older systems may have other issues like wear and tear, the intrinsic qualities of the soil and its classification remain unchanged over time. Consequently, the physical and chemical properties of the soil are the primary determinants for establishing effective loading rates, rather than how long the system has been in place.