Ejector pumps are used to pump liquids or semi-liquids up to a higher elevation. Typically they are used when a regular submersible pump cannot be used because of the elevation of the source of the water or the source of the liquid.
The elevated level can be caused by the installation of the pump, distance from the source or due to water levels that are too low to traditionally submersible pump water or liquids. The ejector pump pulls the liquid into a specially designed chamber as it is being sucked in by the force of the vacuum.
The liquid is pressurised and cleared from the discharge pipe when the pressure created by the suction is greater than the pressure of the liquid, allowing it to be pushed up to the higher level. The primary application of ejector pumps are sump pump, sewage, and wastewater applications.
Other uses include Koi ponds, self-priming water, lifting of rainwater, crop irrigation, and dewatering.
What is the difference between a sewage pump and an ejector pump?
Sewage pumps and ejector pumps are designed for different applications, so the main difference between them is the purpose for which they are used.
A sewage pump is mainly used to transfer wastewater or sewage from a lower elevation to a higher one, such as when pumped from a basement to a main sewage line. It can also be used to move wastewater from a septic tank to a sewage treatment plant.
Sewage pumps are capable of handling wastewater and other materials, such as wastewater with suspended particles, such as toilet waste. They tend to be very powerful pumps that handle large volumes of wastewater.
An ejector pump is a type of pump used to transfer wastewater from one location to another. It is commonly used to move wastewater from a house or other building to a septic tank or other water source for treatment.
Ejector pumps use centrifugal force to move wastewater and other materials, although they are unable to handle particles larger than 1/8 inch. While they are less powerful than sewage pumps, they are generally less expensive and are suitable for smaller-scale applications.
Is ejector pump same as sump pump?
No, ejector pumps and sump pumps are not the same. An ejector pump is designed to transfer wastewater from one area to another, such as from a basement sump to a drain line. It uses more power than a sump pump, and is equipped with a float switch to ensure the water level remains below a certain point.
A sump pump, however, is designed to remove water that has accumulated in a sump basin or other container. It will pump the water out of the sump basin and into a drain line or outside area, so that the basement remains dry.
Sump pumps are powered mechanically by a separate motor, or can be powered by a direct current (DC) pump or switched to an alternating current (AC) pump. Unlike ejector pumps, sump pumps are not used to transport water from one source to another, and are typically less powerful than ejector pumps.
What happens if ejector pump fails?
If an ejector pump fails, the consequences can be serious. Ejector pumps are important components of many home and commercial sewage systems. They are responsible for sending sewage waste to the main sewer lines, so a pump failure can lead to sewage backing up and overflowing into the home or building.
This can cause extensive damage to both the structure and the surrounding environment. Foul odors, practical issues such as floor or ceiling damage, and potential health concerns from sewage exposure are all potential concerns when an ejector pump fails.
In order to prevent ejector pump failure and the resulting issues, it is important to keep the pump maintained with regular inspections and servicing. Clogs in the lines or pump can also contribute to failure, so ensuring that the ejector pump is not too full and that pipes are cleared of debris can help to prevent failure.
If the pump does fail, it is important to have a professional inspect the problem and make any necessary repairs. It is typically not advised to attempt a repair on your own as there can be serious consequences or further damage from incorrect repairs.
Do ejector pumps require maintenance?
Yes, ejector pumps require regular maintenance in order to function properly and efficiently. This is especially important for equipment that sees frequent use or is exposed to corrosive or abrasive materials.
When performing maintenance on ejector pumps, your primary focus should be on checking and replacing gaskets and seals, lubricating moving parts, and cleaning accumulations of dirt and other foreign materials.
Additional maintenance measures should also include checking the performance of the pump, checking the mounting bolts, and conducting regular inspections of the pump and its components. Ultimately, by investing time in maintenance and upkeep, you can ensure that your ejector pump is operating at peak performance and efficiency.
Do all houses have ejector pumps?
No, not all houses have ejector pumps. An ejector pump is often used in homes where the sewer lines are below the level of the house’s plumbing fixtures. The pump helps lift waste water and sewage up to the main sewer line and is typically used in basements and crawlspaces.
Most houses will not have the need for an ejector pump, although some areas may require it if the house is situated too far below the sewage main. If your home does not have an ejector pump and its plumbing fixtures are too low, you may need to install one.
How do I know if I need a sewage ejector pump?
Generally, you will need a sewage ejector pump if your bathroom or laundry room is located below the sewage line. These pumps work by ejecting wastewater from a lower area to a higher area, such as to a septic tank or city sewer.
The most common indicator that you need a sewage ejector pump is if you notice gurgling sounds coming from the drain when you are doing laundry or flushing the toilet. Additionally, if your toilet or drain is frequently clogged, a sewage ejector pump may be necessary.
If you think you may need a sewage ejector pump, it is best to consult a plumbing professional to ensure it is installed correctly and safely.
How often should ejector pump be serviced?
Ejector pumps should typically be serviced every one to two years depending on usage and conditions. Some factors that will determine the frequency of ejector pump services are the type of pump, location, and environment.
For municipal sewage systems, ejector pumps should be serviced more frequently to ensure proper functioning and to reduce the possibility of associated health risks. Key items to look out for during service include, but are not limited to, blockages, obstructions, and clogs; physical damage to the pump; and improper or inadequate operation.
During a service, all components of the pump, including motor, impeller, housing, and accessories, should be checked for any visible signs of wear and tear or damage. The technician should also be sure to inspect the discharge piping and fittings, lubricate moving parts, check gaskets and seals, and recalibrate or replace any worn parts.
Additionally, it’s important to make sure that the ejector pump is capable of handling peak demands and is in compliance with all applicable regulations. Keeping up with regular maintenance on your ejector pump will ensure that it is working properly and efficiently and can prevent any potential disasters.
How much does a ejector pump cost?
The cost of an ejector pump can vary depending on size, type, and the seller. Generally speaking, a small residential sump and ejector pump can run around $100-$200, while a submersible type can range from $250-$800, depending on the capacity and the amount of horsepower.
Other factors, such as switches or alarms, can influence the cost as well. Additionally, if the installation will require additional plumbing or piping, then obviously the cost will increase accordingly.
On the high end, a sewage ejector pump system can easily exceed $1,000. Ultimately, costs will depend on the exact requirements of the project, so it is best to contact a knowledgeable contractor for an accurate quote.
What can clog an ejector pump?
An ejector pump can become clogged with a variety of substances. Depending on where the pump is located, these can include sand, dirt, silt, oil, grease, and other debris that is typically found in water.
If the pump is installed in a basement and there is a runoff of water, it can contain sediment, sand, and other materials which can accumulate inside the ejector pump and block the impeller causing it to become clogged.
Grease, soap, and oil can also become stuck in the ejector pump, preventing it from working properly. To prevent clogs from forming, it is important to have your ejector pump serviced and inspected on a regular basis.
It is also a good idea to make sure that any nearby drainage sources, such as outdoor drains or water lines, are properly maintained to reduce clogs.
What are the two types of sump pumps?
The two types of sump pumps are pedestal sump pumps and submersible sump pumps. Pedestal sump pumps are the more traditional type of sump pump and they are mounted outside of the sump basin in a dry area.
They typically feature a long cylindrical motor with an impeller on the bottom. This type of pump is better for lower volume requirements since its motor runs on air instead of water. Submersible sump pumps are mounted inside the sump basin and are completely submerged in water.
Submersible sump pumps are typically quieter and more powerful, but they can be more expensive to install due to the additional wiring and waterproof casing. They are better for higher volume water removal and can be used for sewage or other waste water applications.
Do sewage ejector pumps need to be cleaned?
Yes, sewage ejector pumps do need to be cleaned regularly. They can become clogged with debris and cause the pump to not function properly, or even stop working. It is recommended to clean your sewage ejector pump every 6-12 months or according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
To clean the pump, you will need to turn off the power and take apart the pump to access the debris and sludge that has built up inside. Once the debris has been removed, you can reassemble the pump and turn the power back on.
It is also important to check the impeller, gaskets, and any other parts of the pump and make sure they are in good condition. If any parts need to be replaced, do so quickly to ensure the pump is functioning properly.
Can ejector pump handle toilet paper?
Generally, yes, ejector pumps can handle toilet paper, although it is important to note that there are some types of toilet paper that are not suitable for use with ejector pumps. Thick, non-dispersible, clumping and septic safe toilet paper can cause clogs in the pump, which could lead to serious damage to the ejector pump.
Additionally, materials that are not actual toilet paper, such as wipes, feminine hygiene products, q-tips, and other non-toilet paper items should never be put into an ejector pump. Therefore, it is best to check the type of toilet paper before using it in homes or businesses with ejector pumps.
Why is my ejector pump alarm going off?
It is likely that your ejector pump alarm is going off because there is an issue with one or more components of the pump. The most common reason for an alarm to sound is due to an overload of liquid or debris within the sump pit.
This can be caused by clogs in drains, septic tank issues, or a lack of maintenance of the pump. It can also be caused by a power surge, blockage in the discharge pipes, or a faulty float switch.
It is important to shut off the power to the pump, and then diagnose where the issue is. If the sump pit is full of debris, it should be removed. Once the problem has been identified, it is important to take the necessary steps to repair it.
This could include replacing the float switch, unclogging drains, or repairing septic tanks. Regular maintenance will also help to prevent an alarm in the future.