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Septic Glossary

Dosing System

A pump or siphon that sends effluent to the drain field in controlled batches rather than a continuous trickle, giving soil time to recover.

Dosing System

Also called: Timed dose, Demand dose

What it means

Dosing systems move a set volume of effluent to the field on a timer or after the tank reaches a level. Rest periods between doses let the soil drain and recover, which helps on slow or shallow soils.

They include a pump chamber, controls, and often an alarm. Proper dose volume and rest time are set during design and should not be changed without engineering review.

Why it matters in Santa Cruz County

Environmental Health may require dosing on Santa Cruz County mounds and pressure systems where continuous flow would overload clay soils or tight coastal lots.

Homeowner tip

Do not adjust dose timers yourself; incorrect dosing can flood one section of the field.

Related Wade's services

Also explore the Plumbing Glossary or call 831.225.4344 with questions about your property.