Do you own a property with a cesspool? If you’ve never dealt with these types of wastewater containment systems, you may not know how to take care of it or why you should schedule regular cesspool pumping appointments. After years of supplying quality septic services, ABC Cesspool & Septic Pumping of Kamuela, HI, has been confronted with a number of questions and considers the following five to be the most useful for familiarizing yourself with these systems.

5 FAQ About Cesspool Pumping

How Do Cesspools Work?

Cesspools contain and filter wastewater from the buildings on the property. These underground containers use bacteria to break down waste and are constructed from porous material or have an open bottom that allows the treated water to drain into the surrounding soil. Solid waste remains in the cesspool and requires pumping to remove.

How Often Should You Pump a Cesspool?

While it depends on the size of the cesspool and the number of people who are living or working on the property, the recommended time frame for cesspool pumping is at least once a year. But schedule it sooner if you notice pooling in the area, odd smells, or visible backflow in the drains.

What Happens If Cesspool Pumping Doesn’t Work?

An alternative to pumping is chemical treatment. The combination of liquid sulfuric acid and caustic soda flakes has a 50/50 chance of breaking up solid waste.

Do Common Cleaners Affect the Cesspool?

Yes. Anything washed down the drain will have a direct effect on the cesspool. Some of the chemicals in cleaning products can harm the cesspool bacteria, reducing their numbers and the breakdown of waste.

Can Landscaping Affect the Cesspool?

Yes. You should keep all landscaping approximately 50 feet away from the cesspool area. Tree roots can penetrate the underground walls and cause leaks in the system.

If you’re looking for reliable cesspool pumping services, connect with the experts at ABC Cesspool & Septic Pumping. This locally owned company has specialized in septic cleaning and cesspool repair for over 12 years. Their team also provides detailed septic inspections. Call (808) 887-0766 to make an appointment, or visit their website for additional information on how these systems work.