What is a Seepage pit?
A seepage pit is built the same way as a well. In fact, if you look into one it looks just like a well. Seepage pits typically are 5-7 ft in diameter and depending soil conditions anywhere between 15-40 feet deep. The actual walls of the pit are only 4′ in diameter, and the surrounding areas is filled with gravel. The gravel allows for better draining and helps limit clogging due to excessive dirt contact with the walls. As seen below the pores in the pit allows the water to drain into the gravel, which is then dispered through the gravel and is filtered into the soil. With proper septic tank maintenance, pits can last up to 40-60 years. Typically, pits last about 15-20 years but this is due to abuse and improper maintenance. Both compartments of the septic ank must be pumped every 2-5 years to limit the amount of solids entering the seepage pit. This will ensure a long life for your septic system. Another good idea is to add enzymes, or Bacteria which will break down and eat up solids