ABOUT SEWAGE EJECTOR PUMPS
If a toilet, washing machine, or other plumbing fixture is installed below the main water line, for example in the basement, a sewage ejector pump can be installed to pump waste water, including solids, back up to the main septic line. The sewage ejector pump sits in a sump basin that is dug into the ground and can hold about 30 gallons of waste water. When the waste water reaches a predetermined level, a float triggers the sewage ejector to pump the water up to the septic line and out of the house before automatically shutting off until the next time it’s needed. The sump basin is sealed at the top so that no waste or foul odors can escape during operation of the sewage ejector pump, though a vent up and through the roof is necessary for proper ventilation. Because sewage ejector pumps involve the septic lines, proper permits are required when installing or repairing them. Due to the difficulty level of the job, and the disastrous results that could occur if the installation is done wrong, most homeowners would be well advised to hire a licensed plumber to complete the installation of a sewage ejector pump.
SUBMERSIBLE SEWAGE EJECTOR PUMPS
Sewage ejector pumps are designed to handle raw sewage and solid waste materials. These pumps are normally used to push raw sewage up hill from a whole home, basement bathroom, or external structure to a septic tank, aerobic treatment system, or gravity sewer main. Sewage pumps have a 2'' or 3'' discharge and can handle up to 2'' spherical solids.
EJECTOR PUMP PROBLEMS
- Don’t flush the following items down the toilet:
- Wipes
- Paper Towels
- Sanitary Items
SEWAGE EJECTOR MAINTENANCE
As with any other appliance, you’ll want to properly care for your sewage ejector pump. These units are especially sensitive. So be aware of what you flush including diapers, wipes (even if they say flushable), feminine hygiene products, paper towels, and other foreign materials. These items put stress on your unit as it tries to force them upward.
