A sewage pump or sump pump helps move either waste water or ground water out of your home. Though the pumps are similar they’re typically installed somewhat differently and serve their unique applications.

SUMP PUMPS

A sump pump is installed in a small crock in the floor of the basement. Unlike a sewage pit, it is not water tight, but has holes in it. The crock is designed to allow ground water to seep into it. As water enters the pit it is allowed to accumulate to a set volume at which time a float will activate the pump and discharge the water outside the building. It is important that the discharge pipe directs the water far enough away so that the water does not simply return to the basement and get recirculated.

Crocks have been constructed in all sorts of ways. Some are prefabricated plastic, others are made of metal, some are made of 5-gallon buckets (not recommended). Because you are dealing with groundwater there is always a possibility that too much sediment will enter the pit and restrict the flow of the sump pump. Occasionally, something will fall into the pit and either clog the pump or foul the float. If your discharge drain covers a significant distance it can also become clogged and need to be snaked. In the event your sump pump fails we can replace it.

SEWAGE EJECTOR PUMPS

A sewage ejector pump is installed in a sealed pit (if inside) or in a holding tank with a lid (if outside). High capacity systems will also be equipped with a backup sewage pump and a control system. In most of the systems with multiple pumps the control system alternates which pump is activated to ensure even wear on the pumps. As waste water enters the pit it is allowed to accumulate to a set volume at which time a float will activate the pump and send the waste water either into a gravity drain or another tank depending on the application. There may also be an alarm integrated into control system to alert you in the event of a problem with the pumps. If there is not an alarm you will notice there is a problem when you begin to see a backup in the fixtures the pump serves.

Pits located inside your home are currently constructed of some kind of plastic or fiberglass. In the past the pits were often made of metal and over time they corrode and begin to leak sewer gas or liquids. This is often a source of sewer odors. In the event of a pump failure this can also contribute to waste water being released from the pit onto your floor. Sometimes the check valve on the sewage pump discharge line fails and causes the pump to activate too frequently. This can cause the pump(s) to fail prematurely. Problems can also occur when items that are too large or bulky are introduced into the pit (e.g. diapers, paper towels or feminine items). They can either clog the pump, foul the float or clog the discharge pipe.

If you have a problem with your sewage pump system, we will seek to remedy the situation in the most cost-effective means possible. We can clean out the pit and determine what repair your pump, pit or pipes may need or replace the pump if it has failed.

We have extensive experience with all aspects of sewage and sump pump repair, replacement and installation. Our crews are professional and prompt and will work hard to repair or replace your sump pump quickly.