Which type of soils is pressure distribution suitable for?

Pressure distribution systems are effective in managing septic effluent in soils that can adequately disperse water without becoming saturated. These systems are suitable for Type 1 soils, which are characterized by good drainage and infiltration properties. Selecting pressure distribution for soils with less than 24 inches of vertical separation indicates that these systems can be beneficial in areas where you want to ensure that effluent is evenly distributed and has the ability to infiltrate adequately without the risk of pooling or surface breakout.

By utilizing pressure distribution, the system can apply effluent more evenly over a larger area, which is essential for preventing excessive loading in any single spot that could occur with gravity systems. This helps to protect the treatment efficiency and minimizes environmental risks. In areas classified as similar to Type 1 but where soil characteristics may limit traditional systems, pressure distribution can still offer a viable solution as long as they meet the criteria of adequate drainage and suitable vertical separation.

In contrast, clay soils typically have very low permeability, which can lead to drainage issues when using pressure distribution. Similarly, sandy soils are generally too permeable for effective use of pressure distribution as they may allow too rapid drainage, posing different treatment challenges. Finally, wetlands and marshy areas are unsuitable for septic systems due to naturally high moisture levels