A properly functioning soakaway system should typically drain within 24 to 48 hours under normal conditions, though the exact time can vary based on several factors:
Factors That Affect Soakaway Drainage Time:
- Soil Type:
- Sandy or Gravelly Soil: Soakaways installed in these types of soils will drain faster, often within 24 hours, because these soils allow water to percolate easily.
- Clay or Loamy Soil: Soakaways in these denser soils may take longer to drain, sometimes closer to 48 hours or more, since these soils don’t allow water to pass through as quickly.
- Size of the Soakaway:
- Larger Soakaway Systems: If the soakaway is appropriately sized for the amount of water being directed to it (e.g., from large roof areas or parking lots), it will drain more efficiently.
- Undersized Soakaways: If the system is too small for the volume of water it receives, it can become overwhelmed and take longer to drain, potentially leading to standing water for several days.
- Amount of Rainfall:
- Heavy or Prolonged Rainfall: After a significant downpour or a series of rainstorms, the soakaway may take longer to drain, as it has to deal with a larger volume of water. In these cases, it may take up to 72 hours or more to fully drain, depending on soil conditions and the system’s capacity.
- Age and Maintenance:
- New Soakaways: A well-designed and newly installed soakaway should drain efficiently within the 24 to 48-hour window.
- Older or Clogged Soakaways: If the soakaway is older, silted up, or clogged with debris, it may take much longer to drain. In some cases, it may fail to drain properly at all and will need to be unblocked or replaced.
Signs of a Soakaway Problem:
If your soakaway regularly takes longer than 48 hours to drain, it could indicate a problem, such as:
- Clogging: Due to a buildup of silt, debris, or roots.
- Undersizing: The soakaway may not be large enough for the water volume it needs to handle.
- Poor Soil Permeability: If the soil doesn’t allow water to drain properly, you may need to consider an alternative drainage solution or improve soil conditions around the soakaway.
Conclusion
Under normal conditions, a properly functioning soakaway should drain within 24 to 48 hours. If it takes longer, consider investigating potential blockages, soil conditions, or system sizing issues. Regular maintenance, like clearing gutters and ensuring pipes remain free of debris, can help keep your soakaway system running efficiently.