Tag Archives: ejector pump maintenance

Mar '24

How Sewage Ejector Pumps Ensure Proper Wastewater Disposal

Proper wastewater disposal is essential for the function of your home and the safety of everyone who lives in your house. If your home is like many other homes in the Chicago area, your building’s plumbing will carry out this task efficiently, using only the force of gravity.

But if some plumbing fixtures in the home are below the level of your main sewer line, you will need a sewage ejector pump. A sewage ejector pump lifts wastewater from the lower levels of a home to a higher level from where the water can flow freely out of the property.

Azure Sky Realty notes that sewage ejector pumps are essential in homes with basement plumbing fixtures at a lower level than the municipal sewer lines. Homes with septic drain fields at a higher level than some of the home’s plumbing fixtures also need them.

How does a sewage ejector pump work, and why is it essential for Chicago homes to have them?

How sewage ejector pumps work

A sewage ejector pump works on the same principle as a regular basement sump pump. The main difference between the two is that while ejector pumps handle wastewater generated from inside the home, sump pumps handle rainwater that enters the house from outside.

The primary components of a sewage ejector pump system are:

A sewer basin where wastewater from the connected plumbing fixtures goes

A pump that pushes wastewater out of the basin into the main sewer line

A check valve check to keep pumped wastewater from flowing back into the basin

A discharge pipe that channels the pumped water into the sewer line

Typically, the sewer basin for a moderate-sized home holds around 30 gallons of waste. Drain lines from the plumbing fixtures connected to the system slope into the sides of the basin. When the amount of wastewater inside the basin reaches a predetermined level, the pump is activated.

The ejector pump, which sits inside the basin, is switched on and off with the help of a float switch – a movable device that rises and falls with the level of wastewater inside the basin. After the water inside the basin is pumped out, the pump is deactivated as the float switch falls.

a sewage ejector pump repair taking place in chicago.

Due to the critical role a sewage ejector pump plays in the sewage system of your Chicago home, it is essential to know what to look for when buying one.

What you should know about sewage ejector pumps

Chicago’s unique topography makes it necessary for many homes around the city to have a sewage ejector pump system. Without ejector pumps, homes in the city’s low-lying areas would constantly have to deal with unsanitary conditions because of their ineffective drainage systems.

Due to the critical role a sewage ejector pump plays in the sewage system of your Chicago home, it is essential to know what to look for when buying one. The following are the key factors to consider when buying a sewage ejector pump for your home.

Pump capacity

The right pump size for your home depends on the average daily wastewater flow. A mismatch between your home’s needs and the pump size will lead to backups and pump failures. It is also a good idea to have some excess capacity.

Power source

Most people opt for an electric-powered pump. But an electric-powered pump will not work if there is a power outage in the area. That is one reason to consider a battery-powered system, either as your primary pump or backup system.

Professional installation

You need professional help when estimating your building’s average daily wastewater flow, the size of the sewer basin and the pump capacity. You also need a professional to help you install the system.

a plumber servicing a sewage ejector pump in chicago.

Maintaining your sewage ejector pump

Proper maintenance ensures the smooth function and longevity of your sewage ejector pump. If your sewer basin and ejector pump are of the correct size but the system is poorly maintained, your pump’s performance will be sub-optimal. How should you maintain a sewage ejector pump?

Monthly inspections

Check the pump every month. Critical inspection components include the float switch, discharge pipe and check valve.

Cleaning and testing

When inspecting the system, test it to make sure the float switch is working properly. You also want to clean the sewer basin and pump.

Professional inspection

In addition to monthly pump inspections (which do not have to be done by a professional), you should have the system inspected at least once a year.

Regular servicing

Yearly inspections should include comprehensive service of the ejector pump and the other components of the system by a qualified professional.

Finally, sewage ejector pumps play a crucial role in your building’s drainage system. Keeping the system in top shape is one of the most important ways to protect your property and finances. If you are having issues with your sewage ejector pump or thinking of installing one, we can help you.

Mar '24

Expert Tips for Extending the Lifespan of Your Ejector Pump

No homeowner ever plans for the appliances and equipment in their home to fail prematurely, according to www.mhnproperties.com. But this problem happens all the time. Most times, when it does, it is due to small issues that could have been avoided with a little knowledge and effort.

In this post, we discuss the common problems that can affect an ejector pump and cause it to fail prematurely. We explain the causes of ejector pump failure and tips to help prolong the life of this essential piece of equipment in your home.

Common ejector pump problems

If you bought a quality ejector pump, it should last between 7 and 10 years. But this depends on the correct installation and proper maintenance of the pump. If the conditions for the smooth function of the ejector pump are not met, issues you will experience in your home include:

Float switch malfunction

The float switch activates the pump when the water inside the tank reaches a predetermined level. It also switches the motor off when the pit is empty. The float switch makes it possible for the pump to function automatically. If it fails to activate the pump or switch it off, your home will be flooded with sewage, or the motor will burn out.

Plumbing is clogged

Because it handles wastewater with numerous solids, some buildup is expected within your plumbing system. But sometimes – perhaps due to the wrong items being flushed into the drains or poor maintenance – the buildup inside the lines can prevent wastewater flow through the drainage pipes. If this happens, your ejector pump will work, but no waste will be removed from the tank.

Pump cycles frequently

The pump cycle is the interval between when the pump activates and when it shuts down (after emptying the tank). Since the pump only powers on when the tank is full, there should be a decent duration between each cycle. If the ejector pump is cycling frequently, it means it is not pumping effectively – the content of the tank is not being removed completely before the motor powers down.

Pump makes strange noises

Your ejector pump will make some noise when it is working, the normal humming sound of the motor. It is abnormal for an ejector pump to make sounds like the grinding screech of metal against metal or rattling and clunking sounds. If you are hearing strange sounds from your ejector pump, the impeller is likely clogged or bent, or the casing is broken.

ejector pump maintenance prolongs lifespan of the pump.

Cleaning the ejector pump and tank regularly helps to prevent excessive buildup that can lead to pump failure.

Steps to prolong the life of your ejector pump

By taking steps to avoid the root cause of these problems or discovering them before they become major issues, you will protect your ejector pump. Here are the best practices for prolonging the lifespan of your ejector pump.

Watch what you flush

Ejector pumps are not designed to handle certain types of waste. Dumping grease, fats and oils in your drains is a recipe for trouble. Avoid flushing so-called flushable items into your drains: cotton swabs, disposable wipes, diapers, dental floss, condoms and feminine hygiene products, to name a few.

Cover your drain openings

Harmless items that can hurt your ejector pump if they enter the system include starchy food (potatoes, rice or pasta) and stringy vegetables (like celery). Human or pet hair can also impede the impeller. You can install strainers on drain openings to keep these items out of your drains.

Avoid toxic chemicals

Chemical drain cleaners and clothes dryer sheets threaten the function and longevity of your ejector pump. The chemicals in drain cleaners will corrode the pump. The synthetic fibers in clothes dryers will clog the ejector pump and interfere with the operations of the motor.

Clean the pump regularly

Ejector pumps handle wastewater with a lot of solid and semi-solid waste. Some of this non-liquid waste inevitably gets stuck inside the pump. Cleaning the ejector pump and tank regularly helps to prevent excessive buildup that can lead to pump failure.

Inspect the system on a schedule

Regular inspections help you stay up to speed with what is going on with your ejector pump. They help you stay steps ahead of problems in the system. By letting you discover issues at their early stages, inspections allow you to solve problems before they escalate.

Service your ejector pump

At least once a year (every six months preferably), you should have your ejector pump serviced by a professional. How often you do this depends on the age of the pump and how much wastewater it handles. This small step can add years to the life of your ejector pump.

To conclude, keeping your ejector pump running smoothly and prolonging its life is not rocket science. It involves paying attention to your equipment and a proper maintenance routine.

Apr '23

How to Diagnose and Repair a Sewage Ejector Pump

Sewage pumps are essential in many homes, as they are responsible for removing wastewater from the home. When these pumps are not working correctly, it can lead to a lot of problems in the home. In order to diagnose and repair a sewage ejector pump, there are a few steps that need to be taken in order to ensure that the pump is functioning correctly.

Sewage Pump Problems

When it comes to sewage ejector pumps, there are a few common issues that homeowners may experience. One of the most common issues is clogging. Clogging can occur when there is an issue with the pump’s impeller or when debris has become lodged in the pump. This can lead to the pump not being able to move the wastewater out of the home, resulting in sewage backups and flooding. Another common issue is a broken motor, which can be caused by overworking the pump or a buildup of debris in the motor.

Sewage Pump Repairs

In order to repair a sewage ejector pump, the first step is to check the impeller. The impeller is the part of the pump that moves the wastewater out of the home. If the impeller is clogged or broken, it will need to be replaced. To do this, the pump will need to be removed from the sewage line. Once the pump is removed, the impeller can be checked and replaced if necessary.
The next step is to check the motor. If the motor is broken, it will need to be replaced. To do this, the pump will need to be removed from the sewage line and the motor will need to be taken apart and replaced. It is important to remember to check the wiring and connections for any damage as well.
If the pump is still not working correctly, it may be time to inspect the sewage line for any blockages or debris. If there are any blockages or debris, it will need to be removed in order to ensure that the pump is able to function correctly.

Repairing a Sewage Ejector Pump

Once the pump is repaired, it is important to remember to regularly maintain it in order to ensure that it is functioning correctly. Regular maintenance should include checking the impeller and motor as well as cleaning the pump and the sewage line. This will help to ensure that the pump is working properly and will help to prevent any future issues.

It is also important to remember to replace the sewage ejector pump when necessary. These pumps are designed to last for a certain amount of time and if they are not replaced when necessary, it can lead to further damage and malfunctioning of the pump.

In conclusion, diagnosing and repairing a sewage ejector pump can be a complicated process. However, with the right steps, it is possible to ensure that the pump is functioning correctly and that any problems are addressed quickly and efficiently. By regularly maintaining the pump and replacing it when necessary, homeowners can ensure that their pump is working properly and that wastewater is being removed from the home safely and efficiently.

Mar '23

Frequently Asked Questions About Ejector Pumps

What is an ejector pump? Is it the same thing as a sump pump? If I already have a sump pump in my home, do I need to install an ejector pump too? These are a few of the questions homeowners ask about ejector pumps, and in this post, we answer all of them.

What is an ejector pump?

An ejector pump is a compact appliance used to pump wastewater from a home’s drains into the main sewer line. Keyrenter Oklahoma City team explains, it is a sewage pump system designed to collect wastewater from below-grade drains and lift it to where it easily flows into the sewer. Ejector pumps can collect wastewater only or a combination of wastewater and sewer water.

How does an ejector pump Work?

The operation of an ejector pump is simple. Firstly, water from below-grade plumbing fixtures in the home drains into a sealed underground pit in the basement. Discharge pipes from the fixtures slope into the sides of the basin, allowing their content to easily slide into the pit. This waste is then moved to a higher elevation by an automatic pump installed inside the pit.

When is an ejector pump needed?

Plumbing systems, from inception, have always relied on gravity to move wastewater from the home to the municipal sewer lines or a septic tank system. But this system only works when wastewater is moving from a high elevation to a low one. In homes where the plumbing fixtures are below-grade level, this system will not work. In such cases, the plumbing needs help to move wastewater from below-grade parts of the home into the sewer line. That is what an ejector pump does.

What’s the Difference between a sump pump and an ejector pump?

Sump pumps and ejector pumps have a lot of things in common but serve completely different functions. Similarities between the two include; both systems being housed in a pit located in the basement or crawlspace; they both help move water from inside the home to the outside, and they do this with the help of automatic pumps. But there are also a lot of vital differences between sump pumps and ejector pumps.

Sump pumps: Sump pumps help to prevent flooding. They handle water coming into the home from the outside. It can be groundwater that infiltrates the basement or runoff that ends up in the basement after flowing over the ground. Water removed by a sump pump is discharged at a point outside the home, in the yard or into a storm sewer.
Ejector pumps: Ejector pumps handle water from plumbing fixtures or water-utilizing appliances inside the home. Unlike sump pumps which are designed to only work during emergencies, ejector pumps are expected to work at intermittent periods throughout the day. Unlike the sump pump where the pit is often open, the lid of the ejector pump is completely sealed.

What are the different types of ejector pumps?

Although there are many different types of ejector pumps, most residential and light commercial pumps can be divided into two major categories: sewage ejector pumps and sewage grinder pumps.

Sewage ejector pumps: These are high-volume/low-pressure submersible pumps that do not have grinding blades. They are designed to handle solids of no more than 2’’ in diameter. They draw sewage into the system through the bottom via a spinning mechanism. Their motors range in size from 4/10 – 2 HP.

Use this type of ejector pump if:

Pumping sewage to a short distance of 750 feet or less.
You have a short vertical distance – under 70 feet – to lift sewage to.
You are pumping to a gravity sewer main.
You are pumping sewage to a septic tank system.

Sewage grinder pumps: These low-volume/high-pressure submersible pumps are designed to handle solids. They have cutting blades that grind raw sewage and reduce it to a slurry. Sewage grinder pumps can pump at pressures of up to 60 P.S.I. Their motors range from 2 HP and over.

Use this type of ejector pump if:

You are pumping to a very long distance of 750 feet or more.
You want to lift sewage to a high vertical distance (20-30 feet minimum).
You are pumping to a pressurized sewer main.
You are only pumping to the city sewer.

How do I keep my ejector pump in good shape?

To protect your ejector pumps, please observe the following rules:

Do not dump metal, plastic, baby wipes, sanitary napkins, rubber gloves, dental floss, condoms or cotton into the system.
Keep grease, oils and fat out of the system.
Schedule periodic inspections and maintenance for your ejector pump.

Finally, does your home need a sewage ejector pump? The groundwork you do before you add an ejector pump determines the effectiveness and longevity of the system. Before you decide to install an ejector pump to your home, talk to us for a thorough needs assessment of your home.

This step will help ensure you get the most value for every dollar you spend on your ejector pump.

Mar '23

Tips on Keeping Your Sewage Ejector Pump Running Smoothly

In any home or commercial building, proper functioning of the sewage system is essential for maintaining hygiene and preventing unpleasant odors. A key component of this system is the sewage ejector pump, which is responsible for pumping waste from below-grade areas to an elevated sewer line. To ensure the smooth operation of your sewage ejector pump, it is important to follow some basic maintenance tips. In this article, we will discuss several strategies to help you keep your sewage ejector pump running smoothly.

Understanding Your Sewage Ejector Pump

Before we dive into the maintenance tips, it is crucial to have a basic understanding of how a sewage ejector pump works. A sewage ejector pump is typically installed in basements, crawl spaces, or other areas where the main sewer line is located at a higher elevation than the wastewater source. When wastewater flows into the pump basin, a float switch is activated, signaling the pump to start. The pump then macerates the solid waste and pumps it out through a discharge pipe connected to the sewer line.

Regular Inspection and Cleaning

One of the most important aspects of maintaining a sewage ejector pump is regular inspection and cleaning. It is recommended to inspect the pump and its components at least once every three months. Start by visually examining the pump and surrounding area for any signs of leakage, cracks, or damage. Make sure the pump is properly secured and the discharge pipe is tightly connected. If you notice any issues, contact a professional plumber for repairs.

In addition to visual inspection, it is essential to clean the pump and basin regularly to prevent clogs and blockages. Sediment, debris, and solid waste can accumulate over time and hinder the pump’s performance. To clean the pump, disconnect the power supply and remove the pump from the basin. Thoroughly clean the impeller, volute, and other components with a brush and mild detergent. Use a hose or bucket of water to flush out any remaining residue.

Check the Float Switch and Alarm System

The float switch and alarm system are crucial for the proper functioning of a sewage ejector pump. The float switch is responsible for activating the pump when the wastewater level reaches a certain point, while the alarm system alerts you in case of pump failure or high water levels. It is important to regularly test the float switch and alarm system to ensure they are working correctly.

Start by manually lifting the float switch to engage the pump. Listen for the sound of the pump starting and observe the wastewater being pumped out. If you don’t hear the pump or notice any issues, the float switch may need to be adjusted or replaced. Similarly, test the alarm system by triggering it manually to ensure it emits a loud and audible alert. If the alarm sounds weak or doesn’t activate at all, call a professional for inspection and repairs.

a person performing maintenance on their sewage ejector pump.

Clogged or obstructed ventilation pipes can cause pressure imbalances, leading to pump inefficiency and potential system failures.

Maintaining Proper Ventilation

Adequate ventilation is essential for the proper functioning of a sewage ejector pump. Clogged or obstructed ventilation pipes can cause pressure imbalances, leading to pump inefficiency and potential system failures. It is recommended to inspect the ventilation pipes annually and remove any obstructions, such as debris, bird nests, or vegetation.

Additionally, ensure that the vent pipes are properly sized and positioned to facilitate the free flow of air. Inadequate ventilation can result in the buildup of foul odors and harmful gases, posing health risks. If you encounter any issues with the ventilation system, it is advisable to contact a professional plumber to ensure proper remediation.

Be Mindful of What You Flush

The sewage ejector pump is designed to handle human waste, toilet paper, and water. It is crucial to be mindful of what you flush down the drain to prevent clogs and damage to the pump. Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items, such as wipes, diapers, sanitary products, or chemicals. These items can cause blockages and put undue stress on the pump.

Similarly, be cautious of the amount of grease and fat you pour down the drain. Grease and fat solidify when cooled and can adhere to the pump components, impeding their function. To prevent such issues, dispose of grease and fat in a separate container and properly dispose of it in the trash.

In Summary

Regular maintenance of your sewage ejector pump is crucial for its smooth operation and longevity. By following the tips mentioned in this article, you can ensure that your pump functions optimally and prevents any unpleasant sewage backups. Remember to inspect and clean the pump regularly, test the float switch and alarm system, maintain proper ventilation, and be mindful of what you flush down the drain. Additionally, consult a professional plumber for any ejector pump repairs or issues beyond your expertise. By taking proper care of your sewage ejector pump, you can avoid costly repairs and maintain a sanitary environment in your home or commercial building.

Apr '22

Everything You Need to Know About Sewage Ejector Pumps

Sewage backup is one of the most damaging plumbing emergencies you can have in your home. Imagine the horror of sewage flowing into your home, not only ruining your floors and belongings but also subjecting your home to terrible smells. If you’re a landlord, you already know this means your property will be deemed uninhabitable. This is a plumbing issue you can certainly do without.

One trusted way to prevent this problem in your home is to install a sewage ejector pump in the house. But what is a sewage ejector pump? How does it work? What do you need to know before installing a sewage ejector pump in your home?

What is a sewage ejector pump?

A sewage ejector pump operates on the same principle as a sump pump. Just like a basement sump pump, this system comprises of a pump housed inside a basin. This basin or holding tank, along with its pump, is located below ground inside the home.

But unlike a sump pump system, which is designed to remove floodwater entering the home, a sewage ejector pump system holds wastewater from the home before pumping it into the main sewer lines in the street.

How does a sewage ejector pump work?

Waste from the various plumbing fixtures in the home flows easily into the basin because the drain lines are sloped down into the sides of the basin.
For a moderate-sized home, the basin can hold up to 30 gallons of waste. This water will stay inside the basin until it reaches a certain level.
Inside the basin are movable floats that rise with the water level. When the water in the basin reaches the threshold, the flotation device triggers a switch to activate the pump.
The pump removes the wastewater by raising it to the level of the main sewer line in your home or the city sewer lines in the street.
Once the basin is emptied to a specified level, the pump shuts down.
But before the liquid is pumped out of the basin, it passes through a grinder inside the sewage ejector, which breaks apart the clumped solid waste.
Most sewage ejector systems have a water level alarm that triggers when the water in the basin rises to a certain level. If this alarm goes off, it means there is a problem with the pumping mechanism.
A lot of sewage ejector systems are equipped with a secondary pump which serves as a backup when the main pump fails or is being repaired.

Does your home need a sewage ejector pump?

Your home needs a sewage ejector pump if the bathroom, laundry, or any plumbing fixture in the house is located at a level below the main sewer lines in the street. Where the municipal lines are located higher than a fixture in the home, wastewater will not flow properly.

This is because the flow of wastewater from your home depends on gravity. In order to flow freely, water must be able to move in a downstream fashion. In other words, your home’s plumbing fixtures must be located at a higher level than the city’s sewer lines.

Ejector pumps are also needed in homes with a septic drain-field system, such as those found in rural areas. Without a sewage ejector system, homes that fit the above description run the risk of sewage backing up into the basement or sewer gas seeping into the home.

Before you install a sewer ejector pump system

What do you need to know or get before installing a sewage ejector pump system in your home?

A permit – In most locations, you will require a permit to install a sewage ejector pump system in your home. This is because of the potential damage to the city’s sewer lines if your home’s sewage ejection pump is not properly installed.
Pump size – Sewage ejector pumps come in a range of sizes. The right pump for your home depends on the amount of wastewater generated by the home. Typically, an average-sized home needs a pump with a ½ – ¾ hp motor.
Budget – Sewage ejector pumps cost anywhere from $400 to $1000. This price depends on the size and brand of the pump. If the pump system will not be subject to heavy use, you can get away with buying a less expensive one. But you really don’t want a system that you will have to repair often. Worse, if the pump fails it can cost you tens of thousands of dollars worth of damage.
Other system components – In order to function properly, the system needs the following:

A sump basin – The underground tank where sewage water is stored until it is removed.
Vents – Vents help to equalize air pressure and also provide an outlet for sewer gases.
Check valve – This is located between the outlet pipe and the main sewer line, to prevent backups.

The right contractor – Due to the critical role of the sewage ejector system, this is not a job you should attempt to do yourself. It is best to hire a skilled plumber for an ejector pump installation.