Sewage Ejector Pumps in Toronto
Sewage ejector pumps, sometimes called pump-up ejector systems, are used when a bathroom, laundry room, or any other type of plumbing fixtures are situated below the main sewer or septic line. Because drain-wastewater flows according to gravity, any plumbing system that has fixtures below the main sewer line requires a pump or some way of elevating it so that it can drain properly.
Solids (sewage) and liquids move through sewage pumps. Residents typically pump sewage from sewage basins into sewer systems or septic tanks which typically contain soft solids up to 2" wide.
What Is A Sewage Ejector Pump?
The sewage ejector pump operates similarly to a groundwater sump pump in that it lifts waste/sewage up and out of the main sewer line.
Basement bathrooms and laundry rooms often have ejector pumps. Basements may not require ejector pumps. In this case, if the municipal sewer lines that lead to the street are higher than the fixture, the pump will pump liquid, solids, and sewage to the main line. Septic drainage fields, holding tanks, and septic drain fields all utilize ejector pumps. Especially in rural areas, septic drainage fields or holding tanks are usually higher than basement fixtures.
An underground sump basin controls the sewage ejector pumps. On average, a sump basin holds 30 gallons of waste from a medium-sized household. When the wastewater level in the basin reaches a certain level, a moving float on the sewage ejector pump triggers the start of the drain lines into a sump basin. The wastewater is pumped from the basin to the sewer or septic system. When the level in the basin drops, the float returns to its starting position and turns off the pump until the next time the basin is filled.
Requirements for Sewage Ejector Pump Installation
An ejector pump installation requires a vent to equalize pressure during pumping and to let sewer gasses escape. In a sump pit, the vent may connect to an existing vent stack (soil ridge) or run up and through the roof.
The sewage ejector pump's outlet pipe is usually 2 inches in diameter and connects to a 3-inch sewer main line. In between the pump outlet and the junction with the main sewer line, there's always a check valve to ensure no wastewater returns to the sump basin. The sump basin's top is sealed in order to prevent waste or smell from escaping.
If you plan on installing an ejector pump, it would be a wise idea to check with the local building department first. Local building codes and permit requirements may vary from one community to another. Permits are typically required for work on septic or sewer lines, because improper installation can result in a considerable mess. To be on the safe side, research what is needed to have a sewage ejector pump installed legally before you begin. Consider getting an estimate from a plumber before you decide to do this yourself. It's an advanced project for a DIYer.
Choosing the right ejector pump size is another critical factor to consider. Pumps vary in size (horsepower) and basins vary in holding capacity. Generally, a standard pump kit with a 1/2 or 3/4 horsepower motor and 30- or 40-gallon capacity will do, but you can compare prices, specifications, and features to find the most suitable system.
A typical kit costs between $400 and nearly $1,000. As you do not want to repair this installation, you need to buy quality equipment that will suit your home properly.
Wondering which sewage ejector pumps are most suitable for residential applications?
If one or more of the following applies, you should use a Sewage Grinder Pump:
- For pumping to a pressurized sewer main.
- For pumping a long distance (over 750 feet).
- Lifting sewage from a high vertical distance (at least 30 feet) is necessary
Here are the scenarios when a Sewage Ejector Pump is most useful:
- To pump sewage to a septic tank.
- To pump sewage to a gravity sewer main.
- For short distances (750 feet or less)
- There is a low vertical distance needed to lift the sewage (under 70 feet).
Since not all sewage pumps are grinder pumps, raw sewage does not always require sewage grinder pumps. In most cases, a sewer ejector pump will be the more suitable option. In some circumstances, either type may be suitable.
There are also some brands that offer specialty pumps that are designed to replace residential sewage ejector pumps that generate between 4/10 and 1.0 HP. They aren't restricted by a minimum head requirement. This machine uses the same cutting action as larger commercial grinders, but with a motor rated at 1.0 horsepower.
Installing a Sewage Ejector Pump
You can purchase sewage ejector pumps from Hoerner Heating & Plumbing. Similarly, they can be used for commercial applications, but these require larger sump basins.
Hoerner Heating & Plumbing is a Liberty Pumps sewage ejector reseller. Liberty Pumps offers a wide range of sewage ejectors for all your needs. They are available in a variety of sizes for different needs.
The company sells pumps for other applications in addition to sewage grinder pumps. However, there are exceptions. Thus, it is best to speak with a plumbing expert from Hoerner Heating & Plumbing. Get more information and guidance on your specific needs by contacting us today.
Related Pages: Liberty Sump Pumps