Septic Drain Field Installation

Leach field is another term for drain field. You may also see it referred to as an absorption field or nitrification field. Whatever you call it, a leach field is an array of perforated pipes that allow effluent to slowly seep into the soil, where it can be filtered naturally.

Each home’s drain field layout is unique. Designs are based on many factors, including septic system size and topography of the area. Pipes are typically arranged in a grid pattern that spaces pipes 8 to 10 feet apart. If the property is sloped, the drain field should be installed lower than the septic tank.

To install your new septic drain field, your plumber will begin by digging an array of trenches. The trenches will be deep enough that a layer of gravel can be laid before the pipes go down. Then another layer of gravel goes on top of the pipes, followed by a barrier fabric to prevent soil from packing down into the gravel and pipes. Septic drain field pipes must be buried at least six inches below the soil surface.