What is the primary purpose of the leach field in a septic system?

The primary purpose of the leach field in a septic system is to facilitate the absorption of treated wastewater. Once the solid waste has been broken down and the liquid effluent has been treated within the septic tank, it is released into the leach field.

The leach field consists of a series of perforated pipes buried in gravel or sand, allowing the treated effluent to infiltrate the surrounding soil. The soil acts as a natural filter, helping to further purify the wastewater as it percolates through the ground. This process ensures that harmful bacteria, viruses, and nutrients are effectively removed before the water re-enters the groundwater system, making the leach field a critical component in maintaining environmental health and water quality.

This function is essential for preventing issues such as surface water contamination and groundwater pollution, further highlighting the importance of proper leach field design and maintenance in septic systems.