If you’re going to give your cesspool and septic system the proper level of maintenance, then it’s important to have at least a very general understanding of how your system works.
Keep in mind that a cesspool is not exactly the same thing as a septic tank. There are some similarities, but also some crucial differences. In a septic tank, wastewater flows out to a leach field, where it is naturally filtered in the soil. A cesspool, however, is a large pit that’s lined with stone or cement and may have an outlet pipe that’s connected to another pit. The cesspool does not have the ability to filter the waste, which means the sewage will eventually contaminate the surrounding soil. This is why cesspools are generally considered outdated.
If you have a cesspool instead of a septic tank, chances are you live in an older home and the system has not been updated for quite some time. There will be regulations you must follow for pumping and cleaning to prevent the sewage from getting out of control and rapidly contaminating the ground in the area.
Here are some cesspool basics in Modesto, CA, along with a general step-by-step process of how cesspools work:
- The wastewater from your home’s drains flows out into the cesspool in much the same way it would flow out into a septic tank.
- Organic solids will float to the top of the cesspool and inorganics to the bottom—again, much like a septic tank.
- Naturally occurring bacteria found inside of the cesspool converts those organic solids into liquids.
- The clear liquid that results from this chemical process then flows over the sides of the tank and into the soil in the surrounding area.
The biggest issue that can result in failure of a cesspool is a major buildup of solids from a lack of regular pumping. A failure to properly maintain and service the cesspool will cause solids to build up inside of it to the point where the pores in the walls of the cesspool become clogged and unable to allow liquids to freely flow out the sides.
If inorganic substances from your house—such as cleaners, corrosives, anti-bacterial soaps, bleach and other such chemicals—make their way into the system, then this will also result in blockages, potentially causing clogs in the walls of the cesspool and an eventual system overflow.
With all of this in mind, it’s important that you develop a relationship with a trusted septic service in Modesto, CA. You can schedule septic pumping and maintenance at regular intervals to make sure you never run into issues with the operation of the system. It may also be wise to talk to your septic professional about the possibility of upgrading from a cesspool system to a standard septic system with a septic tank and leach field. This may be a better option in terms of both efficiency and environmental friendliness. For more cesspool basics in Modesto, CA and tips for upgrading, contact Alvarado Pumping Septic Service today.