Are you considering buying a home with a cesspool? Or did you recently purchase a home with a cesspool? If so, you may be wondering exactly what a cesspool is and how you should maintain it. A cesspool is a waste management system similar to a septic tank. However, while a septic tank empties waste into a field, a cesspool must be pumped on a regular basis. According to BuildingAdvisor.com, a well-built cesspool can last 40 years. However, that requires that the cesspool be maintained properly. Below are a few things you should know about your new cesspool.

Watch What You Flush

Much like a septic tank, a cesspool uses bacteria to break down waste. However, solid materials like cleaning products, diapers, and feminine products don't break down quickly. They can create clogs in your cesspool that can lead to serious issues. If you have a cesspool, you have to be careful about what goes down your drains. Solid materials may lead to drainage problems, or worse. Cesspool pumping companies can help you remove those clogs.

Limit Trees Near the Cesspool

Trees are a serious risk to cesspools because their roots expand outward and can eventually pierce the container. If tree roots go unchecked, they could create holes in the cesspool and waste could leak into your yard. The best strategy is to not have any trees around your cesspool. However, if you do have trees nearby, have them treated regularly, and have their roots trimmed as needed. A regular inspection of your cesspool from cesspool pumping companies can help you determine if you need to do something about the surrounding trees.

Manage Your Use of Detergent and Bleach

Bleach and detergents can also cause issues in septic tanks and cesspools. They can be corrosive to the tanks, and they can lead to bubbly, frothy liquid in the yard surrounding the cesspool. Obviously, you need to do laundry. However, be thoughtful about how often you actually do it. Try to space out your laundry loads so there isn't bleach or detergent waste all the time. Also, consider all-natural detergents that may not have as much bleach or detergent.

Regular cleanings and services are a great way to keep your cesspool operating correctly for decades. Contact Busch Bros Cesspool Sewer & Drain Corp today to schedule your pumping and inspection. We can keep your cesspool running smoothly.