Sewer Ejector Pump Repair & Replace

Sewer Ejector Pump Repair & Replacement 

The sewer system in your home works by gravity. Wastewater flows in a downward direction from sinks, tubs, and toilets. The wastewater is then collected in pipes that continue to flow in a downward direction until the wastewater is delivered to the public sewer system, or to a septic tank.

However, if you have a bathroom, kitchen or laundry in your basement, the wastewater collected may be below the level of the sewer system, making it impossible to rely on gravity. In such cases, you probably have a sewer ejector pump that pumps the wastewater up to the level of the sewer system. Those ejector pumps sometimes need to be repaired or replaced. ASAP Plumbing can take care of that for you.

How Does a Sewer Ejector Pump Work?

Sewage being collected at a level lower than that of the sewer system or septic tank goes into a holding area sometimes referred to as a sump basin. When the wastewater within that sump basin reaches a predetermined upper level, a float mechanism triggers a switch that energizes the sewer ejector pump. The wastewater is then pumped out of the basin until a predetermined lower level is reached. A vent is required to allow sewer gasses to escape from the basin, and a check valve ensures that no pumped wastewater can drain back into the basin.

Why Sewer Ejector Pump Repair and Replacement Is Necessary

A number of different things can go wrong with a sewer ejector pump. Here are some of the common problems encountered:

• Buildup of grease and sludge that prevents wastewater from being pumped out

• Float switch failure

• Ejector pump motor not working or working improperly

• Problems with electrical wiring or connections

Signs That Sewer Ejector Pump Repair and Replacement Is Necessary

If you notice any of the following signs, it might be an indication that your sewer ejector pump needs to be repaired or replaced:

• Sewer backup in basement toilets or tubs

• Foul odors coming from the sump basin area

• Loud noises associated with the pumping action

• Ejector pump running erratically, continuously, or not at all

An additional sign would be your pit alarm going off. Some pits do not have alarms to indicate when the water level is too high. If this is the case for you, we always recommend installing one so you can easily identify when the system is having issues.