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 Sullivan, IL

Q: How much does it cost to install a submersible well pump

• <div><p>The <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/sump-pump-installation-cost.htm">cost of sump pump installation</a> varies depending on factors like the type of sump pump, labor rates, and the complexity of the installation. On average, you can expect to pay around <b>$1,200</b> for a standard sump pump install. However, the cost may be higher if additional features like a backup system or extensive drainage work are required. </p></div>

Q: Which septic system lasts the longest?

• <div><p>With proper maintenance, most types of septic systems&mdash;including mound, evapotranspiration, and constructed wetland systems&mdash;can last up to 40 years. To keep your system running as long as possible, follow basic septic tank upkeep guidelines, like <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/clean-it-or-replace-it-why-septic-tank-pumping-crucial.htm">pumping your septic tank</a> every three to five years and only flushing human waste and toilet paper.</p></div>

Q: How do I choose the right septic system for my property?

• <div><p>Consider site conditions, soil type, required capacity, and system designs compatible with environmental protection regulations.</p></div>

Q: What are the disadvantages of cesspools?

• <div><p>Although cesspits may be necessary depending on your main sewage system access or nearby soil quality, they carry a few drawbacks. Cesspools require regular emptying and have relatively high maintenance and pumping costs. Certain areas also disallow the use of cesspools and may require you to cover the <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/converting-cesspool-to-septic-cost.htm">cost of existing cesspools to be converted into septic tanks</a>.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Septic Tank Service pros in Sullivan, IL

*The Angi rating for Septic Tank Service companies in Sullivan, IL 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 Sullivan, IL 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 March 13, 2026

Reviewed in March 2026
Marvon's crew did an excellent job with renovations to the main floor of our 36 year old home. The work ethic his crew demonstrated was exception now days. They take pride in their work and truly want the customer to be happy with the end product. I would hire them again if I need this level...
Marvon Construction, LLC
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Reviewed in August 2025
They are awesome! Had a bathtub removed and a walk in shower installed. Everything was done professionally and efficiently! I’m highly recommend them.
Mad City Windows & Baths
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Reviewed in August 2025
Apex installed a Whole Farm generator for my horse farm. They were very professional when they came to determine the size generator I needed and the quote was quite reasonable. The installation and hook up was completed in a timely manner. I now have peace of mind knowing that in the event...
Apex Electrical Solutions
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Reviewed in May 2025
Was surprised to get a response as quickly as I did. Even more surprised that he was able to complete the job the next day. Plumbers in this area are few and far between. We have a lot of iron in our water so this system has a third tank that addresses this issue instead of a small filter that...
Pure Water Solutions
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Reviewed in May 2024
My shower installation project was flawless. Their team of installers worked diligently to ensure everything was done to perfection. I give them high praise.
Perfect Choice Exteriors LLC
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Reviewed in February 2024
I had a rural driveway that was in very poor condition. Buzzard Excavation added limestone to it and leveled all of the potholes. It looks and drives amazing!!
Buzzard Excavation
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Reviewed in June 2023
We had an older panel in our house that didnâ t have enough room to add a hot tub. JN Greene Electrical gave us a new panel and meter base. They also wired up our new hot tub! Bid was 15 percent lower than the competition and they did an excellent job. Iâ ll never use another electrician....
J. N. Greene Electrical Contracting Inc.
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Reviewed in February 2023
Courteous and informative. They provided additional services to ensure my fireplace is safe to use.
L.D. Phillips Company
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Reviewed in February 2023
Pleasant, hardworking crew. Bathroom shower and floor turned out really well. Reasonable rates.
Jesus Munoz Flooring
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Reviewed in February 2023
We have used Brook's Creek on two different fencing jobs. The first was an aluminum fence for our dog 40' x 100' in the back. The second was a cedar fence down the property line. The crew chief was the same on both jobs and he, as well as the workers, were very professional as well as working...
Brooks Creek Cedar
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Find Septic tank pros in Sullivan

McDonagh & Sons Plumbing & Sewer Inc

4.1(

)

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

Serving Sullivan, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 2010

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Great. They were there first thing in the morning, explained everything they did and answered all of our questions. Diagnosed the cause of the problem which another plumber could not do. Have had no problems since.
"

Recommended by96%of homeowners

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Wolff Trucking & Septics, Inc.

4.8(

)

Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Repair

Serving Sullivan, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 1981

Free estimates

At, Wolff Trucking & Septics, Inc., we pride ourselves on being the best septic company in the area. We have built an excellent reputation for customer satisfaction by providing quick estimates, a great attention to detail, and competitive pricing. \nBeing a screened and approved professional gives you the peace of mind you need to allow us to give your home the attention it deserves. Call us today and let us get started!

Response time10 hrs

Response rate96%

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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

Serving Sullivan, IL 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(

5,689

)

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

Serving Sullivan, IL 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

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Lawson & Son Pumping Service - Home Facebook

New to Angi

Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Install or Replace - For BusinessSeptic System - Repair+1 more

Serving Sullivan, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 2000

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality work. We are experts in our trade and will do our best to keep you as educated as we can on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business! Feel free to book online with us today!

Response time6 days

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Rigg Excavating And Rural Septic Systems, Inc.

New to Angi

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

Serving Sullivan, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 1980

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

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.

Request Quote

Septic Tanks questions, answered by experts

The cost of sump pump installation varies depending on factors like the type of sump pump, labor rates, and the complexity of the installation. On average, you can expect to pay around $1,200 for a standard sump pump install. However, the cost may be higher if additional features like a backup system or extensive drainage work are required.

With proper maintenance, most types of septic systems—including mound, evapotranspiration, and constructed wetland systems—can last up to 40 years. To keep your system running as long as possible, follow basic septic tank upkeep guidelines, like pumping your septic tank every three to five years and only flushing human waste and toilet paper.

Consider site conditions, soil type, required capacity, and system designs compatible with environmental protection regulations.

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.

Although cesspits may be necessary depending on your main sewage system access or nearby soil quality, they carry a few drawbacks. Cesspools require regular emptying and have relatively high maintenance and pumping costs. Certain areas also disallow the use of cesspools and may require you to cover the cost of existing cesspools to be converted into septic tanks.

The Sullivan, IL 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

Melissa Graham
•
Aug 3, 2026Aug 3, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Locate a Septic Tank? [2026 Data]
If it’s been there for a while, it can be hard to find the septic tank in your yard. Learn how much it costs to locate a septic tank with this guide.
Scott Dylan Westerlund
•
Oct 14, 2026Oct 14, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Pump a Septic Tank? [2026 Data]
Caring for your septic system is crucial to ensuring its long life. But how much does it cost to pump a septic tank? We explore the different cost factors.
D.P. Taylor
•
Jul 15, 2026Jul 15, 2026
Crank Up Your Understanding of Septic Tank Volume
It’s crucial to install a septic tank with the right volume to avoid wastewater backups. This guide will help you calculate the right septic tank volume.
Jamie Cattanach
•
Jul 10, 2026Jul 10, 2026
What’s the Right Septic Tank Size for Me?
Septic tank sizes vary depending on the size of your home, how many people live there, how much water you use, and more. Read on to learn how to determine the right size for you.
Taylor Freitas
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
Are Septic Tanks Bad? Pros and Cons to Consider Before Moving Into a House With a Septic System
If you’ve never lived in a house with a septic system before, you might be wondering: Are septic tanks bad? Here are some of the pros and cons.
Taylor Freitas
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
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.