Tag Archives: sewage ejector pumps

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

Your Guide to Sewage Ejector Pumps in Chicago

Whether you are a homeowner, business owner, or simply interested in understanding how sewage systems work, this article will provide you with all the information you need. From what a sewage ejector pump is to how it operates and the importance of regular maintenance, we’ve got you covered.

What is a Sewage Ejector Pump?

Before we get into the specifics, let’s start with the basics. A sewage ejector pump, also known as a sewage grinder pump, is a crucial component of many sewage systems in Chicago. Its primary purpose is to remove wastewater from lower levels of a building and pump it uphill to the main sewer line.

Unlike a regular sump pump that deals with just water, a sewage ejector pump is designed to handle solid waste, including toilet paper, human waste, and other debris that enters the sewage system. With powerful grinding blades, these pumps macerate the waste, ensuring smooth flow through the sewer pipes.

Now that we have a basic understanding of what a sewage ejector pump is, let’s explore its operation and why it’s essential for many properties in the Chicago area.

How Does a Sewage Ejector Pump Work?

A sewage ejector pump is typically installed in the basement or lower levels of a building. It is connected to a basin, also known as a sewage pit or a sump pit, where wastewater collects. When the wastewater reaches a certain level, the pump’s sensors are triggered, activating the pump.

The pump’s impeller, a rotating device with blades, starts spinning rapidly, creating a powerful centrifugal force. This force enables the pump to macerate the solid waste into smaller pieces, making it easier to pump through the sewer pipes.

As the waste is macerated, the sewage ejector pump forces it through a discharge pipe connected to the main sewer line. The pump continues to operate until the water level in the sewage pit lowers, at which point it shuts off automatically.

The Importance of Sewage Ejector Pumps in Chicago

Chicago is home to countless residential and commercial properties. Many of these properties are equipped with sewage ejector pumps to overcome challenges posed by the city’s unique topography.

Due to its flat geography, Chicago relies on sewage ejector pumps to transport wastewater from lower-lying areas to the city’s sewer system, which lies at a higher elevation. Without these pumps, it would be impossible to efficiently drain wastewater from basements and lower-floor bathrooms or kitchens.

By effectively macerating and pumping solid waste, sewage ejector pumps minimize the risk of sewer backups, sewage overflows, and related issues that can cause significant damage to properties and pose health hazards.

Additionally, sewage ejector pumps are essential in areas where septic systems are in use. These pumps help lift effluent from septic tanks to sewer lines, ensuring proper disposal and preventing contamination of groundwater sources.

Periodically clean the sump pit to remove any debris or sediment that may accumulate. This will prevent clogs and promote smooth pump operation.

Sewage Ejector Pump Maintenance

Regular maintenance is key to ensuring the optimal performance and longevity of your sewage ejector pump. By following these maintenance tips, you can prevent potential issues and avoid costly repairs in the future:

1. Ejector Pit Cleaning

Periodically clean the sump pit to remove any debris or sediment that may accumulate. This will prevent clogs and promote smooth pump operation.

2. Check the Float Switch

Make sure the float switch is free of obstructions and moves freely. The float switch is responsible for activating the pump when the water level rises.

3. Test the Pump

Regularly test the pump by pouring water into the sump pit until the float switch activates. This will help identify any issues before they escalate.

4. Inspect the Discharge Pipe

Check the discharge pipe for any signs of leaks, cracks, or blockages. A damaged pipe can lead to reduced pump performance and potential sewage backups.

5. Professional Inspections

Consider scheduling professional inspections of your sewage ejector pump system annually. A qualified Chicago plumber can identify and address any underlying issues.

a sewage ejector pump installation in chicago.

Decide whether you prefer an electric-powered pump or one that operates on a backup battery system. Electric pumps are reliable but may need a generator during power outages.

Choosing the Right Sewage Ejector Pump

When it comes to selecting a sewage ejector pump for your property in Chicago, there are a few factors to consider:

1. Pump Capacity

Determine the average daily wastewater flow rate in your property to choose a sewage ejector pump with sufficient capacity. A pump with inadequate capacity can lead to pump failure and backups.

2. Power Source

Decide whether you prefer an electric-powered pump or one that operates on a backup battery system. Electric pumps are reliable but may need a generator during power outages.

3. Brand Reputation

Research different brands and models to find reliable and reputable manufacturers. Look for models with positive reviews and a proven track record.

4. Qualified Installation

Ensure your sewage ejector pump is installed by a qualified professional to guarantee proper functioning and compliance with local building codes.

Sewage ejector pumps play a vital role in Chicago’s sewage systems, allowing properties to efficiently remove wastewater from lower levels and preventing backups and overflows. By understanding how sewage ejector pumps work, the importance of maintenance, and the factors to consider when choosing a pump, you can ensure the optimal performance of your system.

If you are in Chicago and require assistance with your sewage ejector pump, don’t hesitate to contact a professional plumber specializing in flood control systems. With their expertise, you can keep your sewage system in top condition and enjoy a clean and functional property.

Remember, regular maintenance and prompt repairs are critical to avoiding costly damage and maintaining a safe environment for you and your community.

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Having issues with your ejector pump in the Chicagoland area? We can help! Contact us below:

Jul '23

The Role of Sewage Ejector Pumps in Preventing Basement Flooding

Basements are a valuable space in any home, providing additional living or storage areas. However, one of the most common issues that homeowners face with their basements is flooding. Basement flooding can cause significant damage to property and pose health risks due to the presence of sewage. To address this problem, sewage ejector pumps play a crucial role in preventing basement flooding.

Understanding Sewage Ejector Pumps

Sewage ejector pumps are devices designed to remove wastewater and sewage from the lower levels of a building, such as basements, where gravity drainage is not possible. These pumps are typically installed in a dedicated pit or basin, below the level of the drainpipes. When wastewater from various sources, such as toilets, sinks, and showers, enters the pit, the pump is activated and pumps the waste up and out of the basement, connecting it to the main sewer line.

One of the primary reasons sewage ejector pumps are installed is to prevent basement flooding. These pumps ensure that wastewater is efficiently and safely removed from the basement, reducing the risk of water damage and contamination. Let’s explore some of the key roles sewage ejector pumps play in preventing basement flooding:

1. Efficient Water Removal

Sewage ejector pumps are specifically designed to handle the solid and liquid waste found in wastewater. These powerful pumps can effectively remove large volumes of wastewater from the basement, ensuring it is swiftly and efficiently transported away from the property. By promptly removing excess water, the risk of basement flooding is significantly reduced.

2. Prevention of Backflow

Backflow occurs when wastewater flows back into the basement due to issues in the sewage system, such as a blockage or overload. This can happen during heavy rainfall or when the sewer system becomes overwhelmed. Sewage ejector pumps help prevent backflow by actively pumping wastewater out of the basement and into the sewer system, ensuring that water flows in the intended direction and doesn’t reverse its course, leading to potential flooding.

3. Protection Against Sinkhole Formation

If excess groundwater enters your basement due to heavy rain or improperly drained landscaping, it can weaken the soil beneath your foundation and lead to sinkhole formation. Sewage ejector pumps help mitigate this risk by removing any excess water before it seeps into the soil. By removing the water promptly, the pumps prevent soil destabilization, ensuring the structural integrity of your foundation remains intact.

4. Overall Home Safety

In addition to preventing basement flooding, sewage ejector pumps contribute to the overall safety of your home. Flooded basements can pose electrical hazards and promote mold and bacterial growth. By efficiently removing wastewater and preventing basement flooding, sewage ejector pumps minimize the potential for these hazards, creating a safer and healthier living environment.

To ensure the proper functioning of sewage ejector pumps and prevent basement flooding, regular maintenance is essential.

Maintenance and Considerations

To ensure the proper functioning of sewage ejector pumps and prevent basement flooding, regular maintenance is essential. Here are a few considerations to keep in mind:

Schedule annual inspections and maintenance by a professional plumber to identify potential issues and ensure proper pump operation.

Test the pump regularly by pouring water into the pit to verify that it activates and pumps the wastewater out of the basement effectively.

Install a backup power source, such as a battery-powered backup or generator, to ensure the pump continues to function during a power outage.

Avoid flushing items like diapers, paper towels, or other non-biodegradable materials, as they can clog the pump and impede its performance.

Consider installing a high-water alarm system that alerts you if the water level in the pump pit rises above a safe threshold.

By following these maintenance tips and considering the necessary precautions, you can maximize the efficiency and lifespan of your sewage ejector pump, reducing the risk of basement flooding and ensuring its consistent performance over time.

Conclusion

Sewage ejector pumps play a vital role in preventing basement flooding by efficiently removing wastewater from basements where gravity drainage is not possible. These pumps effectively prevent backflow and protect against sinkhole formation, contributing to the safety and integrity of the home. Regular maintenance and considerations are essential to ensure the proper functioning of sewage ejector pumps. By investing in the installation of a sewage ejector pump and taking appropriate precautions, homeowners can safeguard their basements against flooding, promoting a secure and healthy living environment for their families.

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.