Retention Time

Also referred to as Detention time. Length of time effluent is retained in the septic tank, lagoon or advanced treatment unit. Effluent should be retained in the tank for at least 24 hours to receive adequate pretreatment (i.e., separation of solids). When an OWTS is subjected to Hydraulic Overload, effluent is pushed out of the system before proper treatment, causing overloading and possible fouling of the drainfield. <