What is the primary purpose of a percolation test?

The primary purpose of a percolation test is to assess soil drainage capability. This test evaluates how quickly water moves through the soil, which is crucial for designing a septic system that relies on proper drainage to function effectively. Inadequate drainage can lead to system overload, backups, and wastewater contamination, making it vital to know how well the soil can absorb effluent.

Soil texture and structure play a role in drainage, but the specific aim of a percolation test is focused on understanding the rate of percolation rather than just the texture itself. Determining land value and checking for contamination are separate considerations that do not fall within the scope of a percolation test, which is solely concerned with the movement of water through the soil profile.