The following listing answers some of the common questions we hear. If you don’t
find the answer to your question below, please contact us at 309-691-6113
or email us.
Q. Why do I need to
pump my septic tank?
A. A septic tank is only a holding tank for the sludge created from waste in
your home. While the water level will always be relatively high, the sludge that
forms in the bottom must be pumped out to prevent a back-up from occurring.
Q: How often should a septic tank be pumped/cleaned?
A. A general recommendation is every three to four years depending on the size
of
the tank and amount of water used in the home.
Q. Where does it go?
A. Our company always takes the waste to an approved facility, usually the
Greater Peoria Sanitary District (GPSD). Even though fees apply for us to dump
at GPSD, we are committed to being environmentally aware. Adams Septic and Sewer
Services does not land-apply or dump on fields since this is both irresponsible
and harmful to the environment.
Q. Do I need to add products to my system to keep it working correctly?
A. Generally, no. Most of the products that you see advertised have no effect
either way. You are basically flushing your money away! However, with some
systems we add a live bacteria treatment after pumping if there is evidence that
the household bacteria isn't sufficient.
Q. What is the life-span of a septic system?
A. With routine maintenance, a properly installed and correctly sized septic
system should last 30+ years.
Q. How can I prevent sewer back-ups from happening in my home?
A. While sometimes back-ups can't be avoided, it is a good idea to have a video
inspection done on your sewer lateral if you have been plagued with chronic
back-ups. A video inspection of your pipe should show exactly what is causing
back-ups—whether it's roots, a "belly" or low spot in the pipe, imperfections in
the joints, etc.
