As cesspools are beginning to fail in Hawaii, it is important to understand what is happening beneath your feet. Proper maintenance and preventative measures are key for ensuring the longevity of your cesspool. 

How it Works

As the daily usage of a household occurs, wastewater, grease, food particles and miscellaneous debris are drained into the cesspool. The wastewater level will rise and drop until eventually the gray water leeches into the soil and leaves behind whatever did not leach out. 

​As this occurs, the level at which the cesspool percolates will become clogged and the wastewater level rises until it drops less and less. When a cesspool fills completely it usually means that it is at the end or towards the end of its lifespan.

Types of Cesspools

Hole in the ground
Reinforced perforated concrete ring
Reinforced with hollow tile

Types of Access Ports

Frequently asked questions

  • How often should my cesspool be pumped?

    There is no exact way of measuring your cesspools pump frequency. They all have a different expiration dates depending on various reasons including household usage and exact location.

  • How deep is my cesspool?

    The average depth of a cesspool on Maui is between 8-12ft. The size of the hole was up to the discrepancy of whoever dug it. Some can be as shallow as 4ft and others 20+ 

  • Where is my cesspool?

    Start by looking for any kind of exposed concrete near the lowest area of your property. These systems are gravity-flow, meaning sewer lines will be at a downward angle to allow passage. There is a plug to your cesspool usually square between 6-12 inches with a rebar handle. This is your systems access port that we we will service from.

  • What if I can't find my cesspool?

    After installation, contractors/homeowners will sometimes landscape over the exsisting system. For that and other reasons, we do offer camera location services to find and expose your systems access port.

  • My system is backing up! What should I do?

    Your system will only continuously back-up if the plumbing is still being used. Immediately stop using water and contact us to see if our services are right for your situation.