PUMPING YOUR CESSPOOL
Does Your Cesspool Need To Be Pumped?
- Is there an odor emanating in the house or outside near the vent pipe?
- Is there a back-up of sewage, either in the form of clean OR dirty water, in the lowest point of the house?
- Water drains very slowly or makes a slurping, gurgling noise.
REMEMBER: CESSPOOLS NEED TO BE PUMPED EVERY COUPLE OF YEARS.
You should pump your cesspool every couple of years. Put at least 10 gallons of chemical (acid) in a Precast Cesspool (*Note – acid should never go into a septic tank). Lastly, Aerate your cesspool regularly to allow it to properly drain.
Usually, when a cesspool is full the water will drain but very slowly. If the water does not drain at all then you likely have a clogged line.
If you have to pump your cesspool more than once a year it is time to upgrade to a new cesspool.
If you have a Block Cesspool from the 1930s, 40s, 50s or early 60s you should fill it in and replace it with a Precast Cesspool. A dip in your lawn is an indication that
your Block Cesspool is caving in.
Note – most houses have two cesspools. Always pump out and treat both cesspools before you replace your cesspool
To Prevent Pumping Your Cesspool Often
- Check for leaks! A leaking toilet will fill the cesspool.
- Be sure no faucets or showers are dripping.
- Never use powder soap, always use liquid.
- Switch washer machine from cesspool to dry well.
- Never flush baby wipes, even if they are labeled “flushable”.
- Do not flush feminine hygiene products.
