The most frequent problem with sewer ejector pumps is clogging. People sometimes flush baby wipes or other items that don’t break down, causing blockages. When that happens, the pump may need to be pulled out and cleared.
Sometimes the pump fails completely. When it burns out, it’s usually not worth repairing. At that point, replacement is the better option.
Installing a sewer ejector pump involves digging a pit in the basement floor to bury the pump. Drain piping is routed into this pit, which then pumps the sewage up into the gravity-fed sewer line.
The process requires careful planning to ensure the pump is correctly positioned and the piping runs smoothly from the fixtures to the main sewer.
Sewer ejector pumps are designed specifically for sewage and solid waste. They handle everything that comes from your plumbing fixtures, including solids.
Sump pumps, on the other hand, are only meant for groundwater. They pump out water that collects around the foundation but aren’t built to handle sewage or solids.
Understanding the difference is important when deciding which pump your home needs.