If the effluent level exceeds the design flow, what is the likely consequence?

When the effluent level exceeds the design flow of a septic system, it indicates that the system is overwhelmed by the volume of wastewater it has to process. This can result in several issues, primarily leading to system failure. The septic system is designed to handle a specific amount of effluent; exceeding this capacity can create backlogs and prevent effective treatment of wastewater.

Inadequate treatment of sewage not only jeopardizes the performance of the system but can also lead to overflows, which may cause environmental contamination and health risks. If the system is regularly subjected to flows beyond its design capacity, it may lead to the failure of various components, including the drainage field, which could require costly repairs or complete replacement of the system.

While improved filtration, increased aeration, and reduced pumping frequency might appear as plausible responses in certain contexts, these are not likely outcomes when the system is faced with an excessive effluent level. Instead, they might imply adjustments that can be made in more favorable conditions. Therefore, the most accurate consequence of effluent levels exceeding design flow is indeed system failure.