What is good to put in a septic tank to break down solids?

• <div><p>The bacteria already present in your septic system should be enough to <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-to-put-in-septic-tank-for-solids.htm">break down solids</a> in a properly maintained septic tank. However, if you’re in a DIY mood, you can try adding (well-mashed) rotten tomatoes to help the good bacteria fulfill their duty. Just make sure you give them a couple hours to work after flushing them down.</p></div>

Get matched with top septic tank pros in Juliaetta, ID

Q: Do septic tanks clog easily?

• <div><p>Septic tanks can clog if they aren&rsquo;t pumped every few years since solid waste accumulates inside of them. Your tank might also clog if you have a habit of flushing anything other than human waste or toilet paper. Items like diapers, baby wipes, paper towels, cat litter, and personal hygiene products should never go down your pipes.</p></div>

Q: What is the difference between septic tanks and cesspits?

• <div><p>Septic tanks and cesspits are both types of sewage and wastewater systems, but they differ in key ways. The main difference between the two systems is that septic tanks separate sewage from wastewater and allow the latter to flow into a drainage field to filter and disperse into the soil. Cesspits don&rsquo;t have outlets and instead, store sewage until it needs to be pumped by a professional.</p></div>

Q: What does a leach line pipe look like?

• <div><p>Leach lines are commonly made of PVC pipe, and they&rsquo;re placed into trenches filled with gravel and sand, which help treat the wastewater. The PVC pipes are perforated, or drilled with small holes, so the wastewater can drain out of the pipes and into the surrounding material, which eventually leads to the aquifer.</p></div>

Q: How do I choose a well pump?

• <div><p>Beyond the type of well pump, there are a few other factors to consider when selecting a well pump. Keep in mind the depth of your well, your average water usage, and the PSI of your water-consuming appliances to determine the appropriate motor horsepower and <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-size-well-pump-do-i-need.htm">size of your well pump</a>.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Septic Tank Service pros in Juliaetta, ID

*The Angi rating for Septic Tank Service companies in Juliaetta, ID is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Septic Tank Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Septic Tank Service companies in Juliaetta, ID is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Septic Tank Service needs.

Last update on May 11, 2025

Reviewed in May 2025
Cody R., Evan C., Ryan J. And Tim M. Installed my windows. Each one of them was very professional and polite. They answered my questions with full knowledge. I highly recommend them.
Renewal by Andersen of Washington
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Reviewed in November 2023
We contacted HB Saw Service and met the next day for a quote to remove a group of trees and trim a large Elm. The next day we received a very thorough quote that was under what we were expecting to pay. Within 10 days the job was scheduled and completed just as described. The site was left...
HB Saw Service
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Reviewed in June 2023
These guts came out to my house in an efficient and timely manner and got the problem taking care of quickly. If in need of Pest Control, give these guys a call!!!!
Pointe Pest Control - ID
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Reviewed in May 2023
I am very happy with the job done.
Emo Construction, LLC
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Reviewed in April 2023
We have learned that there is still a company that is proud of the quality of their workmanship and professionalism. Apex Roofing, LLC was on time, very dedicated to the details, clean and provided a high quality product. Our job was not easy as the house is 3 story and very steep with two...
Orca Roofing and Exteriors
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Reviewed in February 2023
Nathan is a professional. High quality work performed efficiently and thoroughly. The chimney cleaning was great and the stove performs like it was new! I highly recommend Nathan as the best choice for quality work. Iâ ll definitely have him return next year.
Western Expanse Chimney Sweeps
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Reviewed in August 2022
He is a great guy, great worker, great quality and great price.
Iron Patriot Construction
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Reviewed in June 2022
Very professional, trimming and cleanup was amazing, such prideful workmanship. I will use them again for sure.
Hells Canyon Tree Surgeon, LLC
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Reviewed in April 2022
They took their time giving out the best quality, I was really amazed and happy.
The Tile Guys
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Reviewed in November 2021
Josh was quick with his response and provided a fair estimate. Work was done well and I was impressed at the quality. I would hire them again and recommend them to others.
Strong Roots Tree Service, LLC
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Find Septic tank pros in Juliaetta

Three Bear Contracting, LLC

5.0(

)

Septic System - RepairSeptic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Install or Replace - For Business+1 more

Serving Juliaetta, ID and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

We are committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers interests and make their concerns the basis of our business.

Response time2 days

11 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Install or Replace - For BusinessSeptic System - Repair+3 more

Serving Juliaetta, ID and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

"Well. Only problem was delay in response time after claim was filed online. Water tank started leaking Thanksgiving morning and no reply until I called the Regional Manager."

Recommended by81%of homeowners

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American Home Shield – Home Warranty

3.5(

5,688

)

Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Install or Replace - For BusinessSeptic System - Repair+3 more

Serving Juliaetta, ID and surrounding areas

In business since 1971

Credit card accepted

"Takes for ever to get a return a call. Also took a week to get someone out for repairs. They said they would reimburse me for septic repairs and it took over 3 months for that to happen."

Recommended by65%of homeowners

Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Repair

Serving Juliaetta, ID and surrounding areas

In business since 2023

Free estimates

We take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality, and customer service that we provide to meet the consumer's needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction, from the start to the completion of a project. In order to understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer in a professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety, and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.

Response time2 days

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Septic System - Install or Replace

Serving Juliaetta, ID and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality, and customer service that we provide to meet the consumer's needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. In order to understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer in a professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety, and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.

Response time2 days

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

Septic Tanks questions, answered by experts

Septic tanks can clog if they aren’t pumped every few years since solid waste accumulates inside of them. Your tank might also clog if you have a habit of flushing anything other than human waste or toilet paper. Items like diapers, baby wipes, paper towels, cat litter, and personal hygiene products should never go down your pipes.

The bacteria already present in your septic system should be enough to break down solids in a properly maintained septic tank. However, if you’re in a DIY mood, you can try adding (well-mashed) rotten tomatoes to help the good bacteria fulfill their duty. Just make sure you give them a couple hours to work after flushing them down.

Septic tanks and cesspits are both types of sewage and wastewater systems, but they differ in key ways. The main difference between the two systems is that septic tanks separate sewage from wastewater and allow the latter to flow into a drainage field to filter and disperse into the soil. Cesspits don’t have outlets and instead, store sewage until it needs to be pumped by a professional.

Leach lines are commonly made of PVC pipe, and they’re placed into trenches filled with gravel and sand, which help treat the wastewater. The PVC pipes are perforated, or drilled with small holes, so the wastewater can drain out of the pipes and into the surrounding material, which eventually leads to the aquifer.

Beyond the type of well pump, there are a few other factors to consider when selecting a well pump. Keep in mind the depth of your well, your average water usage, and the PSI of your water-consuming appliances to determine the appropriate motor horsepower and size of your well pump.

The Juliaetta, ID homeowners’ guide to septic tank services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

D.P. Taylor
•
Jul 15, 2026Jul 15, 2026
Crank Up Your Understanding of Septic Tank Volume
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•
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•
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Are Septic Tanks Bad? Pros and Cons to Consider Before Moving Into a House With a Septic System
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•
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How to Build a Small Septic Tank for a Rural Property
Want to learn how to build a septic tank for your rural or off-grid property? First, check your local laws, then dive into these general guidelines.
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•
Jul 8, 2026Jul 8, 2026
How Deep Is a Septic Tank and Why Is It Buried in the First Place?
How deep is a septic tank, and why is it buried? Learn where to place your own septic system as well as how to maintain it and how much it costs.
Paige Bennett
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
Here’s What to Put in a Septic Tank to Break Down Solids
Sludge buildup in a septic tank is natural, but it needs to go somewhere eventually. Learn what to put in a septic tank to break down solids efficiently.