Maintaining Cesspits for Clear Stormwater

Effective stormwater management is essential to preserve our environment and safeguard our properties. Amidst the various tools and strategies, the cesspit, also known as a catchpit, is crucial in preventing blockages, water contamination, and potential disasters.

The Significance of Cesspits

Cesspits stand guard in the face of nature’s challenges, strategically positioned upstream of our drainage systems. They act as gatekeepers from contaminants before infiltrating our stormwater pipes.

Picture a scenario where leaves, litter, and sediment from our gardens and streets are left unchecked, flowing unabated into our stormwater systems. The consequences could be devastating: blockages, flooding, water backup, and property damage. Cesspits are the lookout for managing surface water effectively in such settings as gardens, driveways, and roadways.

How Cesspits Work

The operational prowess of cesspits lies in their simplicity yet remarkable effectiveness. These structures create a sump, a repository, where sediment and debris settle at the pit’s bottom. As water flows into the cesspit, it fills up gradually, overflowing at the top level. But here’s the magic: only clean, purified water escapes through the outlet pipe, positioned slightly lower than the inlet pipe.

Many cesspits come equipped with syphon at the outlet to enhance their efficiency further. These syphons serve as filters, catching leaves and twigs, ensuring they never enter the drainage system.

However, the effectiveness of cesspits hinges heavily on one key factor: regular maintenance. As time passes, sediment, silt, and debris may accumulate in the sump, causing blockages and compromising the drainage system. Therefore, scheduling bi-annual or annual cesspit maintenance is paramount to keeping it at peak performance. The time needed between each service depends on the location of the cesspit and how much water flow, traffic, trees, etc, are in the area. 

Types of Cesspits

In New Zealand, a diverse range of cesspits caters to specific purposes:

• Type 1 Cesspits: These compact units, no larger than an office paper bin, find their niche in residential settings, including driveways and gardens.
• Type 2 Cesspits (Surface Water Sumps): These larger cesspits handle the demands of more extensive environments, ensuring surface water management remains efficient.

Regardless of size or type, cesspits filter incoming water to expel contaminants before they enter the larger drainage system. The result? Purified water that can be reused, recycled, or safely discharged contributes to a cleaner, more sustainable New Zealand.

How to Keep Cesspits at Their Best

Cesspits come in various materials, with the sump typically composed of concrete or polyethylene plastic. The top grate of a cesspit is often constructed from robust iron, engineered to endure the elements and stand its ground.

Maintenance is the cornerstone of stormwater management. Neglecting this aspect can lead to blockages, compromised drainage, and the looming spectre of flooding. It is highly advisable to schedule regular vacuuming and hydro-flushing to avert such scenarios. 

Skilled professionals like Drain Ninjas can perform system inspections, set up a consistent maintenance schedule, and guarantee that your stormwater drainage system stays in peak condition.

Ready to Ensure Your Cesspit’s Effectiveness? Contact Drain Ninjas!

If you’re ready to take action and ensure the peak performance of your cesspit, don’t hesitate to reach out to the experts at Drain Ninjas. Our experienced team specialises in cesspit unblocking, maintenance and stormwater solutions. 

Contact us today at 0800-475-008 to schedule your cesspit inspection and maintenance. 

Let’s work together to keep your stormwater system running smoothly!