Leaching Pit

Definition

An excavated hole (pit) that can hold solids but allows liquids to pass through and leach into the ground.

Purpose

Leaching pits are used in wastewater management systems to allow liquids from septic systems or other sources to infiltrate into the surrounding soil. This helps in the treatment and disposal of effluent by natural filtration and absorption processes.

Examples of Use

• Septic systems: Used to dispose of effluent from septic tanks in rural areas where central sewage systems are not available.
• Stormwater management: Employed in areas with poor drainage to manage and disperse stormwater runoff.
• Agricultural waste: Utilized in farms to manage wastewater from livestock operations.

Related Terms

• Septic Tank: A tank that holds sewage and allows solids to settle while liquids are passed to the leaching pit.
• Drain Field: An area where wastewater is dispersed into the soil through a series of perforated pipes.
• Infiltration: The process by which water permeates into the soil.

Notes

• Proper design and maintenance are crucial to prevent contamination of groundwater.
• The location of a leaching pit should be carefully chosen to avoid polluting nearby water sources.
• Regular inspection and maintenance can help ensure the effective functioning of a leaching pit.