Percolation Tests

A percolation test measures how quickly water drains away from the soil. The results from the test allow a drainage engineer to decide if a soakaway is suitable and if so, recommend the correct size.

If provided with test results, our team will provide the necessary calculations for a soakaway without obligation.

The testing process is simple- dig a pit to specific dimensions, fill the pit with water, and time how long the water takes to soak into the soil.

To demonstrate to your local authority you have carried out the test correctly, we strongly advise you take time-stamped photos of each stage below. The following guide is broadly written to the standards of BRE365 (UK soakaway design digest.)

Please note there is a charge of £100.00 ex VAT for the calculations.

A relatively large amount of space is required for a soakaway to be considered. The soakaway must be a minimum of;

• • 5m away from your building
  • 5m away from a road
  • 2.5m away from any boundary

NB: Due to size constraints, developments in urban areas are sometimes not large enough to use a soakaway. In many cases, sites with a high water table or a heavy clay content will also not be suitable.

If you can demonstrate your site is not suitable to accept a soakaway, contact one of our sales team who will be able to provide some alternative options.

• • A method of digging holes of considerable size.

• • A source of water. NB large volumes are required for percolation testing. Each test can use in excess of 200L.

• • Either a hosepipe or a water bowser.

• • A tape measure.

• • A stopwatch.

• • Percolation testing results sheet’ and pen. Download Here

Each pit should have a minimum footprint of 0.3m x 1m. A minimum of two trial pits are required within location of the proposed area for the soakaway.

NB: Make sure the proposed locations adhere to the rules above regarding proximity of soakaways to buildings, roads and boundaries.

The depth of the pit should be 30cm lower than the depth of the soakaway once installed. If this is not known, a depth of around 1.5m is typically sufficient.

Dig the pit to full depth, squaring off all edges.

Make a note of the dimensions of your trial pits on the provided results sheet.

NB: If the water table is hit during the excavation, a soakaway will not be suitable. Contact one of our sales team who will be able to provide some alternative options.

In preparation for timed testing, the test pits should be completely filled then left to drain for 24 hours.

If the pit has not emptied completely after 24 hours, a soakaway is not suitable.

Contact our team for advice on other options.

• • During the timed testing only the volume between the 75% and the 25% mark are taken into consideration.

• • Calculate 25% of the depth measurement. Measure the depth of the pit then divide by 4. For example a 1.6m pit = 0.4m.

• • Clearly mark the pit 75% and 25% by scoring the pit wall or using line paint.

• • NB: Markings must be clear during the testing process.

• • Fill the pit entirely.

• • Filling should be as fast as possible without causing damage to the walls.

• • Have stopwatch ready for when the water level reaches the 75% mark.

• • Begin timing when the water level reaches the 75% mark.

• • Stop timing when the water level reaches the 25% mark.

• • Make a note of the time taken on the sheet provided.

• • Repeat tests.

• • Before starting each test, ensure the pit is completely emptied.

• • Ensure you make a note of the time taken on the sheet provided.

• • A minimum of 3 tests are required over a minimum of 2 pits.

• • Some authorities may request more tests or more pits. Check first with your local planning authority.

Send the results sheet to info@rainwaterharvesting.co.uk

By providing the raw data, one of our team can convert the test pit size and drainage times into a percolation rate.

By providing an approximate figure for the impermeable area of your development (roofs and driveways) and your geographical location, our team can provide a no obligation quotation for a soakaway.

If you would prefer to run your own calculations, details are available in BRE365 Soakaway Design Digest.

Our company always advise the use of modular ‘crate’ soakaways.

Rainwater Harvesting Ltd accept no liability for loss or damage whilst using this guidance. If unsure, seek specialist advice.