Get the hard facts on cesspools for waste storage
Cesspools store liquid waste from homes.
4800 gallons is a suitable size for two people.
Cesspool pumping costs between $250 to $600.
Septic tanks are more common than cesspools.
Dry wells handle rainwater, stormwater, or surface runoff.
Cesspools are essential elements of waste management, despite the fact that they are far less common these days. But what exactly is a cesspool, and how does it differ from more modern systems?
We’re taking you on a journey underground to explore the depths of these waste storage systems. From their purpose to maintenance, learn more about cesspools and how they differ from septic tanks and wells.
A cesspool or cesspit is an underground pit used to temporarily store the liquid waste from a home, typically sewage or wastewater. These structures are constructed with porous walls to allow the waste to seep into the surrounding soil. Cesspools are often found in rural areas with less dense populations, rather than more populated urban centers.
To maintain a cesspool, regular pumping is necessary to prevent clogging which helps with continuous functioning. In cases where the surrounding soil becomes saturated, and waste starts pooling at the surface, you may need to relocate the cesspool.
The size of your cesspool should be determined by the number of individuals living on your property. For a household with two people, a capacity of approximately 4800 gallons is best.
As the number of residents in the household increases, the cesspool's capacity should also grow by roughly 1800 gallons for each additional user—to be on the safe side. For instance, a standard family consisting of two adults and two children should ideally have a cesspool with a capacity of around 8400 gallons.
Cesspools were commonly used in the past, particularly in areas lacking modern sewage systems. However, they have become less common in recent years due to environmental and health concerns.
Untreated waste from cesspools can contaminate groundwater, spread diseases, and contribute to pollution. As a result, many regions have implemented regulations restricting or banning cesspools and encouraging the use of more advanced and eco-friendly septic systems, making them a less common choice for waste disposal and sewage management today.
Cesspools and septic tanks are both systems for managing wastewater, but they differ in design, function, and environmental impact.
| Cesspools | Septic Tanks |
|---|---|
| Single chamber | Two chambers |
| High maintenance | Low maintenance |
| Greater safety risks | Fewer safety risks |
| Less common | More common |
As mentioned above, a cesspool is a simple, underground pit or container with porous walls that allow liquid waste, such as sewage and gray water, to slowly seep into the surrounding soil. Cesspools store waste temporarily, but they don't treat it. Over time, they may become clogged and require frequent pumping.
Due to their limited treatment capabilities, cesspools can pose environmental and health risks when they leak or overflow, potentially contaminating groundwater and causing foul odors.
Septic tanks are more advanced wastewater treatment systems with two chambers. In these tanks, bacteria break down solid waste while the liquid waste is separated and discharged into a drain field for further filtration into the soil.
Septic tanks are more efficient in waste treatment and require less maintenance compared to cesspools. They pose fewer environmental and health risks when adequately maintained. As a result, septic tanks are the preferred choice for wastewater management in many areas. If you are thinking of getting a septic tank, you’ll want to find a reliable septic tank installation company near you.
Cesspool pumping is a form of maintenance that helps keep your cesspool functioning. Over time, as liquid waste accumulates in the cesspool, solids settle at the bottom and the sludge layer thickens. Periodic pumping by professional services removes the accumulated waste and prevents clogs, backups, or overflows.
Regular pumping:
Prevents system failure
Promotes safe waste disposal
Minimizes potential environmental contamination
The frequency of cesspool pumping depends on factors like size, household usage, and local regulations.
The cost of cesspool pumping typically falls within a range of $250 to $600, with an average of approximately $400 among homeowners. The overall price of having a company come to pump your cesspool is subject to fluctuation due to many variables, including additional services and the size of the tank.
| Low Cost | Average Cost | High Cost |
|---|---|---|
| $250 | $400 | $600 |
Dry wells and cesspools are separate components within wastewater management systems, and each has a unique purpose and function.
A dry well primarily handles:
Rainwater
Stormwater
Surface runoff
It temporarily stores these liquids and allows them to gradually seep into the surrounding soil, aiding in water drainage and infiltration. It does not treat water but helps manage excess water from surfaces that don’t allow water to pass through.
If you are unsure how your well is working, you may want to look into the cost to replace your well.
In contrast to a well, a cesspool is part of your household sewage treatment system. It receives wastewater from:
Toilets
Sinks
Showers
These systems are distinct in their roles, with dry wells managing water and cesspools treating sewage.
