Homeowners often mistakenly assume residential septic systems and cesspools are the same, but they aren’t. The septic care specialists at Gecko Enterprises in Waialua, HI, have been providing septic tank cleaning, pumping, and sludge removal for the residents of Oahu for almost 30 years. They recommend going over the difference between these two wastewater disposal systems when deciding which one offers the greatest benefit for your home or business.

Here are three differences between residential septic systems and cesspools: 

• Cost: Cesspools tend to be less expensive because they have fewer parts, and excavation is kept at a minimum since only one pit needs to be dug. Septic tanks require a hole for the tank and a larger space for the pipe system. This makes cesspools the more affordable option.
• Maintenance: Residential septic systems are rectangular-shaped and sealed, which means wastewater must flow out through a pipe and into a leach field for filtering. Cesspools, on the other hand, are unsealed units, which allow water to seep into the soil. Waste eventually builds up, requiring the cesspool to be cleaned often. 
• Environmental Impact: Since cesspools have no filtering systems, they are very bad for the environment, allowing wastewater to contaminate groundwater. Many states have even outlawed them for this reason. On the other hand, residential septic systems offer an efficient sewage treatment system, making them good fits for rural areas that don’t feature public sewer systems.

Both cesspools and septic systems require pumping, a service Gecko Enterprises specializes in. Customers can schedule a pumping service six days a week, and Gecko’s technicians will help bring your cesspool or septic system up to code. Certified to handle and dispose of wastewater, they can also identify and repair problems with your system before they escalate.

Call Gecko Enterprises at (808) 637-3240 to schedule a service today. You can also learn more about the septic services available online.