Distribution Chambers

What Are Distribution Chambers Used for in Wastewater Treatment Systems?

A distribution chamber is used in infiltration beds and sand filters to evenly distribute wastewater into multiple dispersal (perforated) pipes.
It is a critical component in small on-site wastewater treatment systems because it ensures that the entire infiltration area is used and not overloaded.

Here is a clear and complete explanation 👇

What Is a Distribution Chamber?

A distribution chamber is a small chamber with multiple outlets, placed between the septic tank (or primary treatment) and the infiltration/soil treatment area.
Its purpose is to ensure equal and controlled distribution of wastewater to all dispersal pipes.

What Is a Distribution Chamber Used For?

✔ 1. Even distribution of wastewater

The chamber ensures wastewater flows into all dispersal pipes, not just one.

This prevents:

  • local overloading

  • clogging of a single section

  • uneven saturation

  • premature system failure

✔ 2. Increased system reliability

If wastewater only enters one pipe, that portion of the bed quickly becomes saturated and may cause:

  • odors

  • surface flooding

  • hydraulic overload

  • backflow

The distribution chamber prevents these problems.

✔ 3. Height adjustment and fine tuning

Many distribution chambers include:

  • adjustable outlet levels

  • flow regulators

  • leveling inserts

This allows precise balancing of flow to all pipes.

✔ 4. Inspection and maintenance

The chamber acts as a service point.

It allows:

  • flushing of dispersal pipes

  • inspection of flow

  • troubleshooting

  • level measurement

✔ 5. Flow control and balance

In infiltration systems, water must:

  • enter slowly

  • be evenly spread

  • avoid creating channels or erosion

The distribution chamber handles this.

đŸŸ« Where Are Distribution Chambers Used?

✔ Residential on-site wastewater systems

✔ Infiltration beds

✔ Sand filters / soil treatment beds

✔ After-treatments for small treatment plants

✔ Systems using multiple dispersal pipes

✔ Sites with level differences

🟧 What Does a Distribution Chamber Look Like?

Typical features:

  • Ø315–Ø400 mm

  • 2–6 outlets

  • One inlet from the septic tank

  • Adjustable outlet fittings

  • Telescopic riser for height adjustment

Materials:

  • Plastic (PP/PE) – most common

  • Concrete – older systems

⭐ Summary

Distribution chambers are used to:

  • ✔ evenly distribute wastewater

  • ✔ prevent overload of the infiltration system

  • ✔ allow service and pipe flushing

  • ✔ extend the system’s lifespan

  • ✔ ensure controlled and balanced flow

They are a vital component in all infiltration and soil treatment systems.