What is a Cesspool?
A cesspool, also known as a cesspit, is an underground holding tank with no outlet. It’s an environmentally unfriendly way of disposing of waste that was common in earlier times. Typically, a cesspool is a brick-lined or precast concrete tank used to collect household wastewater and sewage. It has no outlet, and effluent drains through the surrounding soil by absorption into the ground. A cesspool requires frequent cleaning as it doesn’t have an outlet to release wastewater, and, eventually, it fills up.
What is a Septic System?
A septic system is an underground facility designed to treat and dispose of wastewater from a household. The purpose of the septic system is to break down organic matter and separate solids from the wastewater. It also releases treated effluent into the soil, reducing pollution. The septic system is an alternative to the municipal sewer system. It’s composed of a septic tank and a drainfield. The septic tank is a watertight underground chamber that receives wastewater from the house. The drainfield or leach field is a series of perforated pipes connected to the septic tank. They are buried in gravel trenches filled with soil. The treated effluent from the septic tank seeps out of the perforated pipes and leaches into the surrounding soil. The soil provides natural filtration and allows the effluent to percolate into the ground. The septic system needs regular maintenance to avoid failure and lasts for up to 30 years.
What are the Differences Between Cesspool and Septic System?
The primary difference between a cesspool and a septic system is in how they release wastewater. The cesspool doesn’t have any outlet, while the septic system is designed to filter and release treated effluent into the surrounding soil via a leach field. Thus, cesspools require frequent cleaning as there is no way to release the accumulated wastewater. Septic systems, on the other hand, treat the wastewater and effluent before releasing it. A cesspool takes less time to install compared to a septic system and is generally less expensive. Septic systems are more expensive since they require complex piping networks between the septic tank and the drain field. In terms of environmental impact, cesspools are considered less safe than septic systems since effluent from a cesspool isn’t treated and pollutes the ecosystem by contaminating groundwater reserves, rivers, and streams.
The Benefits of a Septic System over a Cesspool
Septic systems are designed to be environmentally safe rather than polluting the ecosystem, unlike cesspools. Besides, a correctly installed and maintained septic system lasts for up to 30 years, which is longer than a cesspool’s lifespan requiring frequent cleaning. Septic systems are less likely to cause health issues, that may arise due to horrible odors emanating from a cesspool. Septic systems can also add to the value of your property since they are preferred over cesspools.
The Drawbacks of a Cesspool
Cesspools are harmful to the environment, as effluent from the cesspool remains untreated, contaminating the groundwater, rivers, and streams. It can also cause a health hazard due to the odors produced and lead to flies, bacteria, and even vermin. The ceil of the cesspool can also collapse due to the weight of the surrounding soil, causing pollution, contamination, and even fatalities. Cesspools cost less to construct but are more expensive to maintain in the long run. They require frequent emptying and cleaning, which is an extra recurring cost. Besides, they cost more in terms of health and environmental impact. Learn more about the topic in this external resource we’ve prepared for you. best cesspool company on long island!
The Wrap-up
Cesspools and septic systems both store wastewater, but there are significant differences between the two. Besides the environmental and health impacts, the septic system is generally more expensive, more complex, and requires maintenance. Still, it’s considered an environmentally sound and safe option compared to cesspools, which are now considered outdated and less safe. In case of any queries or the choice to switch from a cesspool to a septic system, it’s recommended to consult qualified professionals for the right advice depending on location, budget, and other factors.
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