In this article, we’ll be discussing sewage ejector pump problems and how to fix such. If you’re reading this, you might have a malfunctioning pump.

One or more of the problems discussed below are likely to be experienced by you. We’ve provided comprehensive steps toward resolving such problem(s).

Sewage Ejector Pump Not Working?

A lot of structural and utility challenges have been overcome by engineering innovations. A simple example is a plumbing fixture located or installed at a lower level than the main sewer line.

Here, a vital machine bridges the gap. This machine, the sewage ejector pump, helps connect the main sewer line with the plumbing fixture.

Basic Functioning

Plumbing fixtures installed at lower levels in areas such as the laundry room, bathroom, and basements won’t normally function effectively by gravity alone.

These will need some mechanical help with a machine like the sewage ejector pump coming in handy.

This system consists of a tank, float, pump, inlet, and outlet.

Here, the plumbing system is designed so that the tank or pit receives waste. As waste collects and rises, it reaches a predetermined point which triggers off the float switch that starts the pump.

Before the contents are pumped out, the pump helps grind the waste so small bits before pumping them up the main sewer line from where gravity takes over and drains the waste.

Now, this vital piece of equipment could develop a fault. Such fault is bound to affect usual functioning.

Common Sewage Ejector Pump Issues

As mentioned earlier, several things could go wrong, thus affecting the normal functioning of your sewage ejector pump.

Problems appear in different forms and include a float switch that no longer works, blockage of normal flow, an old sewage ejector pump, and a suction valve that doesn’t close.

i. Float Switch Doesn’t Work

The float switch is essential to the proper functioning of a sewage ejector pump. It helps trigger the pump when sewage or wastewater reaches a set level within the tank.

The float switch is also responsible for automatically signaling the pump to turn off after sewage drops to a certain level.

Now, it’s evident that a malfunction of the sewage ejector pump float will negatively affect the routine removal of waste.

The pump runs continuously for no apparent reason, thus leading to burnout, or it doesn’t start when it should be triggered (on) under normal circumstances.

ii. Blockage of Normal Flow

There’s likely to be a steady accumulation or buildup of grease and fat during usage.

The continuous buildup of this sticky substance might lead to the clogging of sewer lines and plumbing systems. When this happens, the normal flow of waste during pumping is affected.

Your sewage ejector pump might be working here, yet there won’t be any wastewater flow.

This problem requires a thorough examination of the sewage ejector pump system to identify the actual situation.

There’s little chance you’ll be able to pull this off if you have little to no plumbing skills.

iii. Old Sewage Ejector Pump

Every sewage ejector pump is designed to serve years, after which it won’t be as efficient any longer.

This is the pump’s lifespan and can be extended or shortened by the quality of ejector pump maintenance. As a sewage ejector pump nears the end of its service life, it’s likely to become more problematic.

In other words, you’re likely to experience more frequent pump breakdowns than usual.

Professional assessment of your faulty sewage ejector pump will help determine whether it needs fixing or complete replacement.

It’s best to follow your technician’s advice on what steps to take.

iv. Suction Valve Won’t Close

Like any component of a sewage ejector pump, the suction valve may malfunction.

Evidence of malfunction becomes more apparent when the suction valve won’t close. In such a situation, you’ll find your pump not working correctly. Of course, you’ll need to have the problem fixed.

Fixing may require carrying out essential maintenance repairs or replacing the suction valve. Again, a licensed technician will help restore your sewage ejector pump back to its functional state.

Also, consider asking for essential tips on better operating your pump for greater efficiency.

Is Your Sewage Ejector Pump Clogged?

Asides from the buildup of grease and fat, which could clog up your pipes, your sewage ejector pump may stop functioning when certain items are flushed down your toilet.

This is a problem caused by individual use habits. An example of things you shouldn’t flush down your toilets include paper towels and baby wipes.

Others include diapers, cosmetic wipes, condoms, dental floss, tampons, contact lenses, cotton swabs, cigarette butts, hair, etc.

These items could easily clog up your sewage ejector pump, thus resulting in malfunction.

If you’re hoping for grinders within your pumps to cut these into tiny bits, they won’t do a lot to help the situation. Continued disposal of these items into your toilet eventually takes its toll.

The sewage ejector pump becomes clogged. Sometimes, such clogs might lead to burnout of your machine.

Troubleshooting a Problematic Sewage Ejector Pump

Before calling for professional assistance, you’ll need to ensure that it’s indeed a malfunction.

Different things to look out for include checking to see if the pit has been cleared, a pump that isn’t cycling, and an alarm that’s off.

By checking for any of these signs, you have a fair idea of how significant the problem is.

  • Checking to See if Pit is Cleared

Sometimes, in trying to figure out where the problem lies, you might have to check to see if the pit is being evacuated from accumulated waste or not.

This is one starting point toward identifying the problem.

  • The Pump isn’t Cycling.

A sewage ejector pump might not be cycling due to the absence of electricity. Here, you’ll have to check the connections to see if everything is in order.

  • The Alarm is Off

A sewage ejector pump alarm could alert to problems affecting normal functioning. When the alarm is heard, urgent actions will have to be taken to identify and fix the problem.

These sewage ejector pump problems are likely to occur due to the reasons given above. Upon noticing any of these, you’ll have to call for urgent professional help.

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