What is the proscribed method for testing private sewage disposal systems?

The prescribed method for testing private sewage disposal systems is through a percolation test. This test evaluates how well soil absorbs water, which is crucial for determining the appropriate design and functioning of a septic system. The percolation rate indicates how quickly effluent can disperse and be treated in the soil, thereby affecting the system's efficiency and longevity.

Conducting a percolation test involves digging test holes in the proposed leach field area and filling them with water to measure how quickly the water percolates into the soil. This information helps ensure that the septic system will function properly without causing problems such as groundwater contamination or system failure.

In contrast, while a visual inspection can identify obvious issues with the system, it does not provide quantifiable data on soil absorption rates. A pressure test assesses the integrity of pipes rather than the soil's capability to treat sewage. A smoke test is used to find leaks in sewage lines but does not address the percolation characteristics necessary for a private sewage disposal system's design.