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Difference between a cesspool and a seepage pit and a drywell

By: Byron Gram

Three main components of a septic system include cesspools, seepage pits and drywells. Cesspools receive black water, i.e. direct sewage waste. They generally run off the liquid and retain solid wastes, which are recycled separately. The calcified water which runs off from the septic tank, flows to the seepage pit and from there it is gradually absorbed into the ground. Drywells receive greywater, that is water that is mildly dirty, such as water from sinks, bathtubs, dishwashers and washing machines.

Seepage pits are also called leaching pits or leaching pools. {They are specially prepared to facilitate water absorption. Usually either the lining is perforated or the walls are loosely jointed, which permits the water to seep into the soil.|They are generally lined with material that is perforated or that has open joints, and this allows for gradual absorption of the water into the surrounding earth.

An assessment of the soil must be made before beginning installation of a seepage pit. If there is a high enough seepage rate in the soil, water can frequently be absorbed via absorption trenches. When seepage pits must be installed, however, they need to be 3 feet above high ground water level, bedrock or the impervious layer. This will prevent water from breaking into the pit, turning it into an open well, and will ensure adequate soil for adsorption.

Sometimes seepage pits require permits, and this can best be handled by professional plumbers.Seepage pit regulations usually require a minimal distance from surrounding buildings, wells and the property line. Additionally, there must be an adequate distance between multiple seepage pits.

Mathematical formulas are used to calculate the size seepage pit that will provide adequate drainage for a home. Once the pit has been dug, preformed lining can be lowered into the pit or constructed for the pit by the workers. The lined pit is surrounded by rock smaller than 2 1/2 inches in diameter, to insure adequate drainage. The top of the pit can be covered with a very strong preformed concrete cover, which is then buried and a manhole must also be provided.

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A-1 Plumbing of Baltimore is a Baltimore plumbing company that installs septic tanks and seepage pits. Byron Graham, a Baltimore plumber who co-owns the company, recommends that anyone who wants to install a septic tank consult with a plumbing contractor who is knowledgeable about local regulations and all the safety and functional requirements of the system.

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