Sewage ejector systems become necessary when the main sewer line is found to be above plumbing fixtures.

Given the important role played by sewage ejector systems, we’ll be taking a look at how they function and several other aspects of their operation.

What’s A Sewage Ejector System?

It’s all contained in the name! Whether you operate septic or connected to a sewer line, a sewage ejector system helps to push out sewage to the main sewer line.

This action makes it possible for sewage to continue its onward journey through the action of gravity to the community line.

It’s important to make some clarifications about the need for sewage ejector systems. Not all homes have plumbing fixtures installed below the main sewer line. For these, sewage is easily conveyed via gravity to the community sewer line.

When installed where it’s needed, a sewage ejector system helps prevent a wide range of issues. Such problems include the accumulation of sewage which will likely result in backups.

There’s also the possibility of the main drain bursting due to pressure from accumulated sewage.

All of these problems are resolved with the presence of a sewage ejector. Whenever wastewater accumulates, it gets pumped out to the main sewer line. For this to happen, a timer or sensor needs to detect the level of sewage.

This helps trigger ejector pumps to get to work when the need arises.

  • Accumulated Wastewater Only Needs to Get to the Main Sewer Line

As wastewater from laundry, toilets, and drains accumulate (for plumbing fixtures below the sewer or septic line), it will need to be transferred to the mainline. This is the job required of a sewage ejector pump.

Once transferred or pumped up, the action of gravity kicks in.

In other words, such wastewater naturally flows to its destination which may be the septic tank or the community sewer line. Sewage ejector systems or pump-up ejector systems as they’re sometimes called save homeowners a lot of stress.

A sewage ejector system works similarly to a groundwater sump pump. However, the only difference here is the medium being transferred. In the case of a groundwater sump pump, rainwater seepage is being pumped out of the home.

Instead of rainwater, a sewage ejector system helps in lifting or pumping up wastewater to the main sewer line for onward flow out of the home.

Other Applications of A Sewage Ejector System

Apart from lifting wastewater from lower plumbing systems to the main sewer or septic lines, there are other uses for sewage ejector systems.

One of the most common areas of application outside of the one being focused on is the septic drain field system. Some septic systems have drain fields that are located on a higher elevation than the septic tanks.

For the effluent to get to the drain field for further treatment, it will need to be pumped using a sewage ejector pump.

The Sump Basin

For sewage ejector systems to function effectively there needs to be a sizeable sewage collection chamber where the ejector pump should sit. This is known as the sump basin. It is constructed by cutting and digging into the ground.

The holding capacity for the sump basin is usually around 30 gallons. So, about 30 gallons of wastewater collects into this chamber before it’s pumped up to the main sewer line.

Efficient wastewater collection in the sump basin is aided by sloping pipes that run to the sides of the sump basin.

A predetermined level is set with the help of a moveable float. Once the wastewater reaches this level, the sewage ejector pump is activated to start pumping.

Installing A Sewage Ejector System

Before installing a sewage ejector system, a lot of work is required to ensure it meets set requirements.

Among the various requirements is the need for permits, checking the building codes of the area as well as obtaining project estimates.

The entire process of installation will require the expertise of a licensed plumber.

In other words, the input of a professional is necessary and helps with proper installation. Here, we strongly advise you to avoid taking the DIY route if you have limited plumbing experience.

Another factor to take into consideration is the size of the sewage ejector system to purchase. The size here refers to the capacity of the pump. Sewage ejector systems are rated in horsepowers.

Also, the size of the holding basin counts.

A sewage ejector pump with motor power ratings of ½ to ¾ horsepower would serve the needs of most households. As stated earlier, there’s also the need to select an appropriate holding basin size.

Most homes will do just fine with a 30 to 40-gallon sewage holding basin.

To get the best deal available, it’s necessary to conduct a price survey as well as compare available sewage ejector system brands.

Remember, the assistance and advice of a licensed professional will be of great benefit to you.

Maintenance

One of the best ways to keep your sewage ejector system serving you for long is by performing basic maintenance actions. These are quite simple and easy to perform.

The following steps should be of immense help.

Before you begin, stop the water flow in the tank, open the tank lid, and activate manual control in draining the tank. Now, put off electricity supply to the sewage ejector pump and get rid of loose waste using a water hose attached to a sprayer.

Having gotten rid of loose waste, you’ll need to scoop out white floating grease as well as gray masses. Now, get some bleach powder and sprinkle over the surface and leave for about 20 minutes before scrubbing.

Having done this, replace the cover and turn on the power. Flush your toilets as usual to rinse.

Where To Buy Sewage Ejector Pumps

Getting an appropriate sewage ejector pump for your home use isn’t a difficult task at all. These devices are readily available at local plumbing supply stores, online, as well as in local home improvement stores.

There’s always someplace close by for you to make a purchase.

As seen so far, sewage ejector systems play a key role in wastewater treatment. These devices are indispensable for homes having plumbing systems that are lower than the main sewer drain lines.

One Comment

  1. Rebecca Ng says:

    Is there a difference between a sewage ejector and a macerating toilet system or are they the same thing?

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