Sewer ejector pumps are important for properties with plumbing fixtures located below the main sewer or septic line, such as in a basement. They prevent sewage backups and flooding by moving wastewater uphill, which gravity alone cannot do.
Key functions and benefits
Pumps waste uphill:
An ejector pump is installed in a sealed basin beneath the floor of a basement or lower level. When wastewater from a sink, toilet, or laundry machine fills the basin, a float switch activates the pump. The pump then forcefully pushes the wastewater up through a discharge pipe and into the main sewer line or septic tank.
Prevents basement flooding:
Without an ejector pump, plumbing fixtures in a basement would be at risk of backups and overflows. This is especially critical during periods of heavy use or if the municipal sewer system is under stress.
Allows for below-grade plumbing:
Ejector pumps make it possible to install bathrooms, laundry rooms, or kitchens in a basement, allowing homeowners to create more functional living spaces and potentially increasing property value.
Provides sanitation and odor control:
The sealed basin and connected vent pipe of an ejector system prevent harmful sewer gases and unpleasant odors from entering the home, maintaining a hygienic and comfortable environment.
Manages solid waste:
Unlike a sump pump, which only handles groundwater, a sewage ejector pump is built to move both solid and liquid waste. Some models, known as grinder pumps, have blades that macerate solids before pumping, which can help prevent clogs.
What Kind of Maintenance can PlumbWell Provide?
- Inspect the pump pit and float switches. Periodically check that the basin is free of debris that could snag the float switch, which activates the pump. You can test the switch by manually lifting it to see if the pump turns on.
- Test the pump regularly. Listen for any unusual noises or long run times, which can indicate a developing problem. You can cycle the system a few times to ensure the pump is turning on and off correctly.
- Clear the impeller. If you are comfortable doing so and have turned off the power, you can inspect the impeller for any stringy debris (like hair or dental floss) wrapped around it.
- Schedule professional maintenance. Have a PlumbWell professional inspect and service your system annually. A technician can clean the pump and basin, and inspect the impeller, motor, and connections to ensure everything is working correctly.
- Install a grinder pump. If clogs from solid waste are a persistent issue, you may consider upgrading to a grinder pump, which uses a grinding mechanism to macerate solids before pumping.
PlumbWell will also install new sewer ejector pits from scratch. The installation of a new sewer ejector pit is a complex plumbing project that generally requires professional expertise, a permit, and involves breaking through a concrete floor to create an underground basin. Our PlumbWell professionals are here to assist you with your next plumbing project.