Know what to expect - INSPECT sm

What is a "Hydraulic Load Test" and when is it beneficial to perform one? A Hydraulic Load Test is a means of simulating increased water usage in a house that has a well and/or a septic system. It is most often used when a property has been vacant, or when a larger family will be moving in, as the following examples will explain. Instructions for performing a Hydraulic Load Test can be found at http://inspectnow.com/hydraulic.html .

Example 1. If a property has been vacant and no water has been used for some time, this would be a good time to perform a Hydraulic Load Test. The reason is that an important part of a septic inspection is measuring the liquid level in a "drainfield" or absorption area. When a property is vacant and no water is being used, these measurements may not represent the usual condition of the septic system. A Hydraulic Load Test simulates natural lived-in conditions in the home and can be performed prior to a usual septic inspection. We recommend that the Hydraulic Load Test be performed for 7 days prior to our septic inspection.

Example 2. This same procedure can also be used to simulate increased usage of a home. For instance, one person lives there now, and four plan on moving in. A Hydraulic Load Test can be used to simulate the increased usage of the septic system.

Example 3. A Hydraulic Load Test can also be performed on well water that has been out of use for a while. This will clear out stagnant water from the well, and get fresh water into the well prior to a water test. A water test on the stale, stagnant water of a vacant property will likely show numerous bacteria growth, but after a Hydraulic Load Test, the results will provide a better picture of the actual quality of the well water when in use.

A Hydraulic Load Test is an important tool for buyers, sellers, and real estate professionals. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn more about it. Instructions for the Hydraulic Load Test can be found at http://inspectnow.com/hydraulic.html .

Rick Stump, inspector@inspectnow.com
Suburban Property Inspections