How Does A Septic Tank Grinder Works? (Solved)

A grinder pump is placed in a tank that is buried in a convenient outdoor location on your property. When the wastewater in the tank reaches a preset level, the grinder pump automatically turns on, grinds the waste, and pumps it out of the tank via a pressure discharge line into the public sewer system.

How does a grinder pump work? When the wastewater in the tank reaches a certain level, it automatically activates the pump to grind up your sewage into small particles, much like a garbage disposal. The pump then generates enough pressure to push the wastewater up the hill through your sewer line to the sewer main.

How does a grinder pump work?

How does a grinder pump work? When the wastewater in the tank reaches a certain level, it automatically activates the pump to grind up your sewage into small particles, much like a garbage disposal. The pump then generates enough pressure to push the wastewater up the hill through your sewer line to the sewer main.

How do I know if my grinder pump is working?

If your grinder pump is working properly, you shouldn’t notice it at all — the pump will turn on as needed and pump down the tank; its noise level is similar to that of a washing machine. The pump will turn off after a few minutes.

What happens when a grinder pump fails?

Blockage: Grease and dirt can build up in the grinder pump, and create blockage. If you notice slow drains or a large number of clogs—or sewage backs up into your home—then call immediately for professional plumbers. Clots: A large enough item becoming stuck inside the pump will then allow smaller items to build up.

Do you need a grinder pump with a septic tank?

We recommend you install a grinder pump if you need to pump sewage to a pressurized sewer main. If you are pumping to a septic tank or a gravity flow sewer main, you are much better off with a sewage ejector pump.

How do you maintain a grinder pump?

What to Check during Septic Grinder Pump Maintenance

Inspect oil level and check for contamination in septic grinder pump motor chamber.

Inspect pump impeller and body for any clogs or clotting (buildup).
Inspect pump motor and bearings.
Inspect grinder pump motor seal for wear and possible leaks.

How often does a grinder pump run?

The pump is programmed to operate in cycles, rather than continuously. Cycles are determined by the amount of water used. Usually after 20 gallons have entered the tank, your grinder pump will turn on. On a typical day, this cycle will repeat itself 10 to 20 times.

How long do grinder pumps last?

You can expect a sewage grinder pump to last 6 to 16 years, with an average of 9 years. A grinder pump is installed along the drain line to a municipal sewer system or private septic tank when the pipe slope is not enough to flow by gravity.

Why is my grinder pump light on?

Your grinder pump station will provide a visual flashing red light alarm anytime the level of storage tank is higher than normal level. If you find your pump station with this condition stop water use immediately and call your homebuilder as soon as possible.

How much does it cost to replace grinder pump?

The average cost for installing the grinder pump is approximately $4,000-$5,000, but varies per property. The cost for electricity to the grinder pump is similar to that of a 40-watt light bulb, which is about $15 to $20 per year. This is in addition to the connection fee of $2,530.

How long does it take to replace a grinder pump?

Sewage system specialists cost $75 to $100 per hour, and installing a grinder pump takes anywhere from six to 10 hours of work. You’ll save money if you try and tackle this project on your own, but you may lose out in the long term if you miss a crucial element during the installation process.

Are grinder pumps bad for septic systems?

It is not recommended to use a Sewage Grinder Pump when pumping sewage from a residence to a septic tank. The sewage gets ground up into such a fine slurry that once it enters the septic tank the solids do not ever separate from the liquid and get passed on to the secondary system.

What is difference between sewage pump and grinder pump?

Grinder pumps are a subtype of sewage pumps. Generally speaking, sewage pumps that are not grinder pumps can move sewage solids up to two inches in diameter that are easy to break down or dissolve. However, a general sewage pump that is not a grinder pump is usually less expensive and draws less power.

Do grinder pumps smell?

Normally functioning grinder pumps do make some sounds when they turn on, but it should not be disruptive. They also emit minimal, if any, odor. You should notice only a slight increase to your electric bill since the pump should only be running a few times a day.

Grinder pump – Wikipedia

A grinder pump is a device that transports waste water. Toilet, bathtub, washing machine, and other water-using domestic appliances discharge waste into the grinder pump’s holding tank, which is connected to the home’s plumbing system. When the amount of wastewater in the tank reaches a certain point, the pump will activate, grind the waste into a fine slurry, and pump it to the central sewer system or septic tank. Basement or yard installation of grinder pumps is an option as well. If the holding tank is to be built in the yard, it must be sunk at a depth sufficient to keep the pump and sewage lines below the frost line.

Grinder pumps are classified into two categories: semi-positive displacement (SPD) and centrifugal.

Components

Outside a house, a grinder pump station with a fiberglass tank and a stainless steel cover has been constructed. The installation of a grinder pump station with an HDPE tank is underway. The grinder pump “station” is comprised of the pump, a tank, and an alarm panel, among other components. Pumps for residential usage are typically 1 horsepower, 1.5 horsepower, or 2 horsepower. A mechanism for cutting Waste is macerated and ground, and objects that are not generally found in sewage but may be flushed down the toilet are ground and macerated.

(The level sensing systems used by different grinder pump manufacturers are different.) It is expected that the alarm panel will sound if the pump fails and the waste level in the holding tank climbs over a specified level.

Both a buzzer and an indication light should be included on the alarm panel.
The intake is linked to the pipes coming from the dwelling, and the discharge is connected to the pipe that runs to the sewage main in the street.
In this instance, it is possible to add more than one inlet.

The tank’s lid is composed of heavy-duty plastic or metal, and it is bolted and/or padlocked shut to prevent unauthorized individuals from entering.

Maintenance

Preventive maintenance should not be required for grinder pumps. While grinder pumps that utilize floats to detect the level in the holding tank are less susceptible to grease accumulation, they can still cause the tank to fill up prematurely or fail to come on at all, resulting in sewage backing up into the home or yard. Grinder pumps are available in a variety of sizes. Grinder pumps that employ float switches to sense the level in the tank are frequently hosed down to remove the oil from the floats in order to avoid this.

If you have a residence that is not linked to a gravity sewer system, you should avoid flushing or pouring down any drains.

Disposable wipes, which are manufactured by cleaning businesses for use in personal hygiene, toilet cleaning, and other applications, are generating difficulties in communities across the United States.
Some wipe makers advise “flushing one wipe at a time,” some advise “not for pump systems,” while yet others advise “safe for sewers.” According to Consumer Reports, wipes should be disposed of in a garbage bin rather than flushed down the toilet.
Large sewage pump stations are frequently equipped with achopper pump in the tank, which helps to prevent clogging problems.

In comparison to a domestic grinder pump, a chopper pump is capable of handling larger/tougher solids such as hair balls, diapers, sanitary napkins, clothes, and other such items.

What’s the Difference Between a Sewage Pump and a Grinder Pump

The following post was made by Everett J. Prescott on May 22, 2020 at 1:42 PM: There are several important distinctions between a sewage pump and a grinder pump, despite the fact that they are sometimes used interchangeably. These two types of systems are employed at elevations where mechanical help is required in order to transfer sewage over a slope. But what exactly are the distinctions between them, and which sort of pump should you use in which case is unclear. In this section, we will take a short look at both types of pumps as well as the circumstances in which they should be utilized.

Sewage Pump Characteristics

Sewage pumps, in general, are capable of handling certain solids, but only to a limited degree. Typically, this type of pump is used in conjunction with basement toilets to pump sewage uphill into sewer lines for the home or utility while keeping the solids intact, or when a home is located in a low area and the sewage needs to be pumped uphill into the sewer or septic system to prevent flooding. Grinder pumps are used in certain sewage pumps, but not all. Grinder pumps are a form of sewage pump that is subdivided.

Clogs and substantial wear and tear on the pump are likely to result from harder material.

The pump will not be able to lift the sewage to the same height as a grinder pump will be capable of.

Grinder Pump Characteristics

Grinder pumps are always referred to as sewage pumps, which is one of the reasons they are often mistaken with other types of pumps. Grinder pumps are equipped with a cutting mechanism that may break down tougher materials into smaller bits, resulting in a slurry that can more readily move through pipes and other passageways. It is possible to pump slurry to a higher elevation than with conventional sewage pumps because of the slurry’s fineness. Grinder pumps, as a result, tend to be more energy-intensive and hence more costly.

However, even if they are capable of handling tougher materials, they are still susceptible to breakdown, thus it is crucial to only flush objects that should have been flushed in the first place.
This allows the overall cost of the pump to be distributed across a larger number of connections while keeping the cost of each individual connection low.

Many are equipped with a waste storage tank and an alert system, so that if the amount of waste goes over a certain threshold as a result of a malfunctioning grinder pump, a warning or siren will sound, allowing action to be taken to rectify the issue as soon as possible.
By learning the fundamental distinctions between grinder pumps and sewage pumps, you will be better prepared to identify the features that are most important in your particular case.

Please feel free to contact us now for additional information, if you have any questions, or to learn more about how we can assist you in keeping your water going smoothly.

Grinder Pump Questions and Answers – Everything You Need to Know

For this reason, they are frequently misidentified as sewage pumps, which is one of the reasons they are misidentified. Grass grinder pumps are equipped with a cutting mechanism that may break down tougher particles into smaller bits, which results in a slurry that is easier to transport through pipelines. It is possible to pump slurry to a higher elevation than with conventional sewage pumps because of the slurry’s fine texture. Grinder pumps, as a result, tend to be more energy-intensive and more expensive to operate.

In spite of the fact that they are capable of handling tougher materials, they are still susceptible to breakdown, thus it is critical to only flush objects that should have been flushed in the first place.
This allows the total cost of the pump to be distributed across a larger number of connections, while the cost of each individual connection is decreased.
The majority of them are equipped with a waste storage tank and an alert system, so that if the amount of waste goes over a certain threshold due to the failure of a grinder pump, an alert or siren will sound, allowing action to be taken to rectify the problem.

It is easier to know what to look for in your individual circumstance if you are familiar with the fundamental differences between grinder pumps and sewage pumps.
Feel free to contact us now for additional information, if you have any questions, or if you want to learn more about how we can assist you in keeping the water flowing properly.

What Is the Purpose of a Grinder Pump in a Septic System? – Wayne’s Drains

In septic systems, grinder pumps are an essential piece of equipment that is typically present in the system. They churn trash from homes or businesses and pump it down a sewage or septic tank, decreasing the likelihood of blockage and ensuring that the wastewater runs smoothly through the system. The following is a comprehensive explanation of what grinder pumps accomplish.

The Basics

Pumps for grinding grains are often housed in a storage tank in a basement or buried down below the frost line of the earth. The tank is linked to the property’s pipes and is used to collect wastewater that is discharged from the structure. When a particular quantity of solids in the wastewater is reached in the tank, these components will activate and begin their work of breaking down any particles in the wastewater. As soon as the particles have been transformed into a fine liquid sludge, the pump transports it via pipes to either the town’s sewage system or a tank in the homeowner’s septic system on his or her property.

Generally speaking, grinder pumps are offered in two configurations: semi-positive displacement and centrifugal designs.

With the former, the flow remains constant independent of the pressure and circumstances within the container. Centrifugal pumps operate on the basis of pressure readings in the basin, and they only switch on when the conditions dictate that they should do so.

Maintenance Tips

When septic systems are in good functioning order, grinder pumps require little to no maintenance in the usual case. If the item makes use of a float to measure wastewater levels, the component may become clogged with grease over time and will require periodic cleaning to ensure that the sensor continues to function effectively. Instead of the device itself, what is discharged into the septic system’s pipes is of primary importance for grinder pump operation. Certain objects, such as feminine hygiene products, paint, grease, diapers, cat litter, and toilet paper that is not intended for flushing should never be flushed or poured down the toilet or down the drain.

They are also capable of causing harm to your septic system.

Whether you require sewage cleaning for your house or have damaged pipes in your company, the skilled crew will complete any task while staying within your budget.

They also offer emergency services that are available the same day and 24 hours a day.

Differences Between Sewage Pumps and Grinder Pumps

Despite the fact that they seem identical, sewage and grinder pumps work in a completely distinct way to dispose of raw sewage. You may learn more about the differences between them by reading on. Do not hesitate to contact your local qualified plumber if you feel that your sewage ejector pump or septic grinder pump may be malfunctioning or have been damaged.

Sewage Ejector Pumps

Wategejector pumps are meant to pump raw sewage from your house into an onsite septic tank or gravity flow sewer main system for treatment and disposal. As a result, they are only capable of pumping to distances of less than 750 feet. A benefit of sewage ejector pumps, on the other hand, is that they are designed to transfer up to 200 gallons per minute of untreated raw sewage. This is a huge increase above the amount of waste that can be pumped by septic grinders. Generally speaking, sewage ejector pumps are designed to handle large quantities of sewage while operating at low pressures.

For example, unlike their grinder pump equivalents, sewage ejector pumps do not contain grinding blades to grind the sewage out of the system.

The sewage is subsequently forced into the discharge pipe with the use of pressure.

Septic Grinder Pumps

System with a high pressure and minimal volume, such as septic grinder pumps. They are therefore more suitable for transporting small quantities of raw sewage over greater distances than sewage injector pumps. If you require sewage to be transported to your pressured sewer main, a septic grinder pump will assist you in accomplishing this goal. The septic grinder pump is equipped with blades that are used to grind raw sewage into a slurry before it is released into the environment. It is then transferred to a pressurized sewer main where it is disposed of.

This implies that it will not be sent to the secondary system, which might result in the destruction of your subsurface leach field if it does.

Which Pump Should I Use?

When determining which sewage pump is appropriate for your home’s sewage pumping needs, it’s crucial to consider the amount of sewage you need to pump, the destination of the sewage, and the distance the sewage has to travel to reach its destination. In the event that you must pump sewage to a pressured sewer main, we propose that you install a grinder pump. Pumping to an aseptic tank or a gravity flow sewer main is far more efficient than pumping directly to the sewer main using a standard pump.

The trade-off is that grinder pumps are only capable of pumping small amounts of waste water.

The finest advice you can get when choosing a new sewage pump system for your house comes from a professional sewage pump plumber.

Our certified Rockford plumbers are available at (616) 901-1149 if you have any questions or concerns about our sewage or grinder pump services.

Sewage Ejector Pumps -vs- Sewage Grinder Pumps

A large number of phone calls concerning submersible sewage pumps are received by the sales department at Septic Solutions®. The great majority of consumers who are in need of a sewage handling pump naturally assume that they must purchase a sewage grinder pump. The term “grinder pump” is often used incorrectly, leading many people to assume that all sewage handling pumps are in reality grinder pumps. That is not the case in the slightest. In the domestic and light commercial / industrial parts of the industry, sewage handling pumps are typically divided into two categories: Sewage Ejector Pumps and Sewage Grinder Pumps.

SEWAGE EJECTOR PUMPS (4/10 HP – 2 HP)

Sewage EjectorPumps are submersible solids handling pumps that have a high volume and low pressure capability. Grinding blades are not included in the design of sewage ejectorpumps. In this case, they utilize a spinning pump that sucks in raw sewage through the bottom of the pump and propels it out of the outlet and into the discharge pipe under high pressure as it turns. A sewage pump is typically built to handle particles with diameters of up to 2 inches in diameter. Septic tanks and gravity flow sewer mains are the most typical locations for a Sewage Ejectorpump, and they are used to transport raw sewage from a house to these facilities.

Sewage ejector pumps are capable of pumping large amounts of sewage (up to 220 Gallons Per Minute).

In a basement floor pit, for example, a sewage ejector pump is used to pump sewage from a basement bathroom up to the main level.

Septic tanks and sewer systems must always be serviced with sewage ejector pumps rather than sewer grinder pumps, according to OSHA regulations.

SEWAGE GRINDER PUMPS (2 HP and larger)

Sewage Grinder Pumps are considered high pressure/low volume submersible solids handling pumps that are used in sewage treatment plants. Sewage Grinderpumps are equipped with cutting blades that grind raw sewage into a slurry before allowing it to travel through the discharge pipe into the environment. These pumps are intended to handle the same types of materials as a Sewage Ejector Pump, but they have the added capability of passing harder solids through them. When pumping from a house to a pressurized city sewage main, sewer grinder pumps are the most typically employed type of pump.

Sewage GrinderPumps are capable of doing so, pushing fluids at approximately 60 pounds per square inch (p.s.i.).
These pumps are capable of pumping small amounts of sewage (30 gallons per minute or less), but they are also capable of pushing it over large distances (thousands of feet) and with head pressures of up to 130 feet.
The sewage is broken up into such a fine slurry that when it reaches the septic tank, the particles do not separate from the liquid and are instead transferred on to the secondary system, where they are disposed of.

A 2.0-horsepower engine It is also necessary for sewage grinder pumps to perform well that they have a minimum of 20-to-30 feet of head pressure.
The majority of manufacturers rely on that bare minimum of head pressure to maintain the RPMs of the electric motor as low as possible.

WHICH PUMP SHOULD I USE?

Septic Grinder Pumps should only be used when any of the following conditions apply to your application:

In the case of pumps connected to a pressurized sewer main
For long distance pumping (750 ft or more), use a larger pump. It is necessary to hoist the sewage from a high vertical distance (minimum of 30 feet).

The following are the situations in which a Sewage Ejector Pump will perform optimally:

When sewage is being pumped to a septic tank
When sewage is being pumped to a gravity sewer line

In the case of short distance sewage pumping (750 feet or less)
You have a short vertical lift distance (less than 70 feet) to deal with the sewage.

Summary: Sewage grinder pumps are not always required for the pumping of raw sewage, and not all sewage handling pumps are grinder pumps. In reality, in the vast majority of circumstances, a Sewage Ejector pump is the far superior choice. Furthermore, there are some situations in which you might utilize either kind.

THE EXCEPTION TO THE RULE

Overall, not all sewage handling pumps are Grinder Pumps, and a Sewage Grinder pump is not always required to pump raw sewage, as previously stated.

In reality, a Sewage Ejector pump is almost always the superior choice in most situations. Furthermore, there are some situations in which either kind might be used.

What is a Grinder Pump?

What is the operation of a grinder pump? It is common for a grinder pump to be installed in a tank (or well) on a homeowner’s property that is buried at a convenient outdoor position on the property (grinder pump units also can be purchased for inside installation). The tank has a capacity for retaining wastewater for collection and treatment. When water is used in the house, the wastewater is discharged into the tank, which collects it. After reaching a certain amount of wastewater in the tank, the grinder pump automatically kicks in, grinds the waste, and pumps it out of the tank through the homeowner’s on-site sewage service connection and into the public sewer system, where it is treated.

A control panel located near your electric meter serves as the source of power for the pump, which runs on electricity.

In the majority of cases, wastewater is transported by gravity from a house or business’ on-property sewage service line to a public sewer main, where it is transported to wastewater treatment plants for treatment.
Gravity, on the other hand, may not be effective in all situations due to height.
Who is in charge of maintaining the grinder pump?

The property owner is responsible for the upkeep of the private sewage service line that runs through his or her property.
Grinder pumps should be capable of handling wastewater from various sources, including the kitchen, bathroom, laundry, and others.
Before using or disposing of any chemicals, please read the labels on the containers.

Grease (a result of cooking derived from animal fats, oils, shortening, butter, margarine, food scraps, sauces, and dairy products)
Material that is explosive or flammable
Cat litter

Aquarium gravel
Strong chemicals or toxic, caustic or poisonous items
Degreasing solvents

Diapers, feminine products, or any other textile
Fuel or lubricating oil, paint thinner or antifreeze
Plastic objects

And seafood shells are all prohibited.

These materials can cause damage to the grinder pump and its controls, as well as clogs and backups, and they may also result in harmful conditions in your lines and tank, according to the manufacturer. In addition, never connect a sump pump to a sewage system. This reduces the flow capacity of sewage mains while simultaneously raising the expenses of wastewater treatment. An electric rate increase and the shortening of the life expectancy of your grinder pump are possible consequences of having a sump pump linked to the sewer system.

Grinders are intended to manage the wastewater that is generally released to the sewage system from the kitchen, bathrooms, and laundry.

There are strict regulations regarding the connecting of sump pumps to the public sewer system. Flows from sump pumps, downspouts, and foundation drains are not permitted, as they may cause overloads in the grinding pumping systems.

Grinder Pumps

Trash-management equipment such as grinder pumps are used to grind up domestic waste into a finely ground slurry and then force it into the sewage system, where it is collected. The use of grinder pumps is essential in situations when a building’s drain system is located below the level of a municipal sewage line or a septic tank. It is possible that, even if a building is on the same level as its sewer line or septic tank, the geology of the site will prohibit sewage from flowing as quickly as it should by gravity alone, necessitating the use of a grinder pump.

What is the procedure for using them?
After reaching a certain level, the grinder automatically kicks in and grinds up the waste before pumping it into the public sewer system or septic tank, depending on the model.

Power is supplied to the pump via electricity, which is connected to a control panel located close to the electric meter.
Inspectors can provide their clients with the following recommendations:

If the pump is to be located in the yard, it must be buried at a depth sufficient to keep it below the frost line. Frost lines differ depending on where you live. Grinder pumps should never be linked to sump pumps, since this connection may cause electricity prices to rise and the life of the grinder pump to be significantly reduced. Planting bushes or flowers, building fences, ornamental pilings, or digging ponds above the pump are all prohibited. While away on vacation, there are a few things that homeowners should do to keep any stagnant scents to a minimum:

Run the water for a long enough period of time to allow the grinder pump to operate. This will clean the pump and ensure that the tank contains only clean water
And Keep the electricity turned on. The heating element of the pump must be turned on in order to prevent condensation and freezing.

It is not recommended to dig between the control panel and the tank since digging might cause electrical power and alarm lines to be damaged. During a power outage, keep water consumption to a minimum. However, despite the fact that the tank has a holding capacity that may allow wastewater to be accepted during a power loss (depending on how much waste was in the tank before to the power outage), the pump will be unable to work without electricity. Some earlier grinder models include a tiny breather valve positioned on the side of the tank, just below the lid, which allows for better air circulation. It is essential that this vent remains open and free of debris, such as grass and leaves, in order for the unit to function correctly. Water should not gather near the tank vent on these older versions, as this might cause the unit to fail. The ground should also be sloped away from the tank vent on these older types. It is important to remind your clients that the following materials should never be flushed down toilets or poured down drains, as they might harm the grinder pump and its control mechanisms, produce clogs and backups, and create dangerous conditions in the lines and tank:

Aquarium gravel
Degreasing solvents
Diapers, feminine hygiene items, or any other type of fabric

Explosive or flammable materials, such as gasoline or lighter fluid
Cat litter
And grease Grease accumulation may cause the pump to cycle on and off needlessly, or it may prevent the pump from cycling on at all. Alternatively, the tank may get overfilled, causing sewage to back up into the home or yard

Plastic of any type
Seafood shells
Or hazardous or caustic chemicals to be released into the environment. It should be noted that these objects should not be flushed in any home, regardless of whether or not the home has a grinder pump, because the disposed stuff may cause harm to septic tanks and sewage systems.

Additional maintenance recommendations should be followed by clients in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications. Homeowners may not be liable for repairs to their grinder pumps if the county owns the unit that services their property; government experts may be able to do maintenance and service at no charge. In residences that are less than a year old, privately owned systems may be covered by a guarantee provided by the builder. In the case of privately owned systems that are not covered by a warranty, homeowners must call a licensed plumber for assistance.

Do You Know About Your Home’s Grinder Pump? It’s Important!

People don’t want to give much thought to the sewage treatment system in their houses, and that is understandable. Of course not, since it’s a little disgusting. After all, as long as it works, you don’t want to spend a lot of time working on it, do you? However, you should give some attention to the various components of your sewage system on a regular basis to ensure that they are in the best possible functioning order. Failure in the sewage system will result in a severe situation, and you’ll need the services of a professional plumber in Frederick, MD to resolve the issue properly.

This takes us to the grinder pump, which we will discuss later.

Wait, what’s a grinder pump?

An underground grinder pump is a type of pump that is installed at a low point in your home or in your yard. Much like a trash disposal, the pump grinds up the wastewater before pumping it up to the nearest municipal sewage line.

The wastewater is initially collected in a holding tank. After reaching a certain level, the pump activates to grind the waste and then provides the pressure necessary to drive the wastewater uphill to the sewage line, where it is disposed.

Why do I need a grinder pump?

It’s possible that you don’t need or don’t have one. A grinder pump is intended to provide assistance to residences that are located below the level of the nearest municipal sewer line. In most cases, the normal residence is constructed higher than the sewer line in order to allow gravity to take wastewater from the system. The fact is that not all households are in this situation, and for those that are, a grinder pump is required. If this is not done, the wastewater will back up and pollute the home.

The reason for this is because commercial companies (such as restaurants) generate a greater volume of wastewater that contains solid trash that must be broken down before it can be discharged into the sewage system.

Grinder pump trouble!

Yes, it is possible for a grinder pump to fail. The fact that it runs on electricity means that if there is a power outage, it will cease to function as intended. It is also possible for the grinder pump’s motors to fail. The presence of several clogged drains and toilets around the property, as well as unpleasant aromas emanating from drains, are early indicators that this has occurred. These might also be caused by other sewage line problems, but no matter what the cause, they must be investigated by a skilled plumber as soon as possible.

Grinder pump installation

It is possible that your house or company may require a new grinder pump, and this is a job that should be left to the pros. To ensure that a firm remains compliant with the law, thorough grinder pump installation must be carried out. Our plumbers are experienced in the installation and maintenance of grinder pumps in both residential and commercial settings. You’ve come to the right place if you need grinder pump services: Mallick PlumbingHeating is the service contractor of choice in Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia, and we look forward to serving you.

Grinder Pump Not Working – Helpful Troubleshooting Guide

Your septic system may suffer catastrophic consequences if your grinder pump ceases to function properly, as described above. The first and most important thing you should do is STOP utilizing water in your household. Please refrain from flushing toilets, using the dishwasher, running the washing machine, or taking a shower since doing so may cause the septic tank to overflow and send wastewater back up through the pipes and into your home.

How Does a Grinder Pump Work?

Your septic system may suffer catastrophic consequences if your grinder pump ceases to function properly, as seen here. Stopping the use of water in your house should be the first step you take. Keep the toilets flushed and shut off the dishwater, wash the dishes, and take a shower since doing so might cause the septic tank to overflow and send wastewater back up through the pipes and into your home.

Why Is My Septic Pump Not Working?

The grinder pump, like any mechanical item located in and around your house, is susceptible to faults and failures.

You may see a list of five of the more frequent problems that you can encounter with your grinder pump below.

Electrical

Check to see that the outlet that supplies electricity to the grinder pump is operational. Disconnect the grinder pump from the electrical socket and put in a lamp or another electrical device to ensure that there is still electricity. If the equipment turns on, you can be certain that the problem is with the pump; however, if the device does not come on, you can be certain that there is a problem with the power connection. In order to determine whether or not a fuse has been tripped, check both the fuse box in your house as well as the one located within the septic alarm panel.

Float Switch

If your ejector pump is equipped with a float switch, you may test it by extending out a coat hanger and dropping the hook side of the hanger downward into the tank. Make a loop around the float switch and try to get the pump to start up using the hook. If the pump does not start, you may require a new pump or a new float switch to be installed. Before acquiring a new pump, you might want to consider obtaining a piggyback switch, which will allow you to bypass the onboard switch on the existing pump.

(click here for current price).
If the float switch is not operating properly, the float should be replaced.
You might also try cleaning the float and rod off with a garden hose, followed by filling the tank with water to check if the float turns on properly.

If this is the case, you will need to replace the float immediately.

Clogged

A clog in the impeller of a pump is one of the most prevalent causes of the pump’s inability to function properly. Clogs are typically created by flushing materials down the toilet that are not intended to be flushed, such as paper towels. While it may be true that disposable baby wipes may be flushed down the toilet if your sewer system relies on septic pumps or grinder pumps to remove waste, you should never flush them down the toilet since they can clog the pump and cause it to stop working properly.

It is necessary to work harder when your pump becomes clogged because the start capacitor in the pump must work harder, which causes the motor to heat up and finally burn out.

First, make sure that the power has been switched off, and then double-check with a voltmeter to make sure that it hasn’t been accidentally left on.

Blockage

The fact that grease will occasionally find its way into the holding tank, regardless of how diligently you clean and maintain your pipes, will cause a clog inside the pump.

Not just oil, but also dirt, coffee grounds, baby powder, pancake mix, and other similar substances. All of these factors might cause the pump to get clogged and eventually malfunction.

Frozen Pump

During the winter, grinder pumps are placed below below the frost line to prevent them from becoming frozen. However, it is possible that a pump is not buried deeply enough, and when this occurs, the wastewater contained within the pump freezes, causing the pump to cease functioning. You will need to bury the tank and pump the water further into the earth in order to resolve this issue.

What Happens When a Grinder Pump Fails?

When the grinder pump fails, an alert will be triggered on your septic system’s alarm panel, which will cause it to sound. The red light at the top of the panel will illuminate, followed by a beeping noise that is intended to draw your attention to the situation. A hush button is usually located on the panel, which may be pressed in order to turn off the beeping sounds, however the red light located on top of the panel will remain illuminated. Another possibility if your grinder pump breaks is that your tank may overflow into your lawn or that it will back up into your home through sinks and toilets.

Human excrement and toilet paper are the only things that should be flushed down the toilet, not anything else.

Avoid flushing these common household objects.

The following items are prohibited: paper towels
Feminine hygiene products
Diapers

Baby wipes
Grease or fat
Coffee grinds
Dental floss
Strong chemicals
Disposable diapers Plastics
Metals
Rubber gloves
Q-tips
Dirt/dust
Cat litter
Cotton swabs
Cigarettes or cigarette butts
Hair (human or animal)
Kleenex
And other household items

Keep in mind that the above-mentioned list is not intended to be comprehensive; rather, it is intended to provide you with an idea of the kind of goods that should never be flushed down the toilet or down the drain.

What Does a Red Light On Grinder Pump Mean?

When the red light illuminates, it indicates that there is an excessive amount of water in the pump tank. In addition to the red light, a beeping sound should be used to draw your attention to the situation. Generally speaking, if the float isn’t operating correctly, or if the pump has stopped working due to a blockage, or if it’s time to repair the pump, the water level in the tank will rise to an unsafe level. Unusually high water levels are also caused by an excessive amount of water being forced through the septic system, which is another prevalent cause.

Heavy rains might potentially cause the levels to rise if rainwater manages to find its way into the tank in some way.

The reason you would want to restrict how much wastewater is introduced into the drain field is that too much wastewater can cause damage to the drain field, and the timer is meant to prevent this from occurring.

If your alarm is activated, immediately turn off all water faucets, flush all toilets, and turn off all washing machines and dishwashers to assist prevent a sewage backup.

Proper Grinder Pump Maintenance

As the property owner, it is your obligation to ensure that the septic system on your property is in proper functioning order at all times.

Pump maintenance

Although the grinder pump itself should not require any preventive maintenance, if your grinder pump relies on floats to detect the amount of wastewater, the floats are susceptible to grease build-up, which might impair the pump’s ability to function. Also possible is that toilet paper will make its way onto a float and weigh it down, preventing the pump from coming on when it should. You may clean the floats with a garden hose once or twice a year if you have the time. You may help your pump out by making sure that you only flush human waste and toilet paper down the toilet, as this will help to extend its life.

Tank Maintenance

Septic tanks will ultimately get clogged with sludge and will need to be drained and cleaned. It is in your best advantage to contact a professional because they are appropriately qualified to handle the trash and disposal of the materials. When, on the other hand, should you call them to pump the tank? The answer to that question is that it is dependent on the situation. Allow me to explain why this is the case. In the tank, wastewater spontaneously divides into three distinct layers as a result of both biological activity and retention in the water.

The fact that your tank is not dividing the waste into these layers indicates that there is something wrong with your tank and that it is not functioning properly.
Solids and grease are trapped within the tank’s interior walls.
When the scum and sludge layers together account for 25 to 33 percent of the liquid depth of the tank, it is necessary to pump the tank.
According to industry standards, your septic tank should be cleaned and emptied once every two to four years.
The tank will need to be pumped more regularly in larger families than in smaller households.
An inexpensive equipment available for purchase is a “Septic Core Sampler,” which allows you to obtain a cross-sectional view of the contents of your septic tank.
To have a firm come out and pump your tank, it might cost anywhere from $250 to $1,000 or even more.

As a result, it is preferable to know when the tank has to be pumped rather than having to guess. Calling at least three different firms for estimates is something I would recommend. When it comes to lifespan, a septic tank should last anywhere between 25 and 40 years before it has to be replaced.

How Long Does a Grinder Pump Last?

The grinder pump, like any other piece of equipment, will eventually cease operating and will need to be replaced with a new one. A grinder pump has an average life expectancy of eight to 10 years, depending on the model. With good maintenance and care, you may get fifteen years out of a single automobile battery pack. This is dependent on what you are flushing down the toilet as well as the sort of dishwasher and washing machine detergent you are employing at the moment. Yes, washing detergents have been shown to shorten the life of a water pump.

We recommend that you take a look at what you are flushing down the drains if your pump is not lasting at least eight years.

Perhaps the pump cannot reach the public sewer system because it is too far away, or the tank is too huge for the size of the pump you are using.

How Much Does It Cost To Replace a Grinder Pump?

Pumps for grinders are not inexpensive. The first thing that you will notice when looking for a new grinder pump is the price tag attached to the item. A decent, dependable household grinder pump can cost you anywhere from $800 to $2500, depending on the brand and type you choose. The distance you must pump the waste to reach the public sewer system, as well as whether you must pump the garbage uphill at all, are all factors to consider. The amount of horsepower required by the pump has a significant impact on the cost of the installation.

If you’re purchasing a replacement pump, this is something that you could do yourself if you’re handy.

Does Your Septic System Require A New Pump?

Pumps for grinders are not inexpensive to purchase. Whenever you are looking for a new grinder pump, the first thing that you will notice is the price tag. A decent, dependable household grinder pump may cost you anywhere from $800 to $2500, depending on the brand and type you select. Another factor to consider is how far the trash must travel to reach the public sewer system and if it must go uphill at all to reach the public sewer system. The amount of horsepower required by the pump has a significant impact on the cost of the pump.

Unless you’re purchasing a replacement pump, this is something that you may do on your own time.

Know If Your System Uses A Septic Effluent Pump Or Septic Grinder Pump

Knowing what sort of pump your septic system is equipped with is critical to the overall operation of the system. A septic effluent pump is a device that transfers waste from a septic tank to a drain field. A septic grinder pump is responsible for the grinding and movement of human waste and toilet paper. Septic tank businesses in Gainesville, FL such as Jones PlumbingSeptic Tank Service can help if you’re not sure what sort of pump the system is using or where it’s located in the system.

Our professionals will identify the pump and check the septic system in order to notify you of the procedures that need to be taken in order to keep all components in proper operating order.

How Septic Pumps Work

A septic pump is a sort of submersible pump that is installed in either the last chamber of the septic tank or in a separate chamber outside the main tank of the system. As waste builds up in the chamber, it activates a float switch, which then activates the septic pump. After that, waste is forced up the outflow pipe and into the drain field by an impeller. Installing a septic tank pump alarm is an excellent strategy to avoid having to clean out your septic tank on a regular basis. One of our professionals will connect the float switch to an alarm panel, which will sound if the pump fails for any reason during the installation.

This alarm will ring and notify you if there is a sewage backup in your home.

Maintenance For A Septic Pump

The upkeep of a septic pump goes hand in hand with the upkeep of a septic system in its whole. Never drain or flush any of the following common home objects to avoid the need for emergency septic service and to ensure the pump’s long-term functionality:

Baby wipes
Cat litter
Fats, oils, and/or grease produced by or utilized in the preparation of meals

Dental floss
Personal hygiene products
And Q-tips or other cotton swabs are all recommended.

In addition, avoid using the garbage disposal because this can cause the septic tank to fill up more rapidly and force water into the tank, among other things. If there is an excessive amount of water entering the septic system, it can cause sediments to enter the septic pump, resulting in a probable blockage in either the pump or the drain field. If or when this occurs, contact Jones PlumbingSeptic Tank Service for prompt and dependable septic tank repairs.

Common Septic Pump Issues

Even with proper maintenance, a septic pump can develop a variety of problems over time, including the following:

Noise Or No Noise

There are occasions when it is possible to hear the septic pump operating within the chamber itself. Do not hesitate to contact us for septic service if it appears that the pump is having difficulty or is failing to transport waste effectively.

Leaking Into The Septic Tank

The septic pump is equipped with a check valve, which provides a pressure gradient in order to keep the waste flowing through the pump and into the drainage system. Whenever the valve wears down or breaks, waste is forced back into the septic tank, causing the tank to overflow and back up into the pipes.

Faulty Float

Floats can become stuck open or closed, or they might become damaged as a result of material entering the septic tank. Depending on the extent of the damage, a professional from Jones PlumbingSeptic Tank Service may be able to remove the debris or may need to replace the float entirely.

Burnt Out Motor

If the motor within the septic pump burns out or fails, the pump will be unable to transfer waste, even if the energy is still being supplied to the device, since the waste would be trapped. In most cases, replacing the pump will address the problem.

Installing A New Septic Pump Or System

Jones PlumbingSeptic Tank Service will replace your septic tank if it is essential, and they will also install a new pump. Everything begins with an application, which is needed by the Florida Department of Health.

We will always assist you in filling out the application and applying for any permissions that may be required. Our professionals will be pleased to walk you through the procedure and answer any questions you may have along the way.

Septic Tank Service

Jones PlumbingSeptic Tank Service can solve any septic issue, regardless of whether your sewage system currently has a pump or if you’re interested whether installing a pump will increase the system’s overall efficiency. When performing septic tank repairs in Gainesville, our specialists take into consideration the demands of the family or company. Call Jones PlumbingSeptic Tank Service immediately to make an appointment for septic service!

Caring for Your Grinder Pump : Lakeway Municipal Utility District

Customers who are linked to the public wastewater system through a Low-Pressure Sewer System will have a grinder pump installed on their premises. Grasshopper pumps are employed in a large number of communities where site characteristics (such as building heights and ground slopes) make the installation of a standard “Gravity Sewer System” impossible. A grinder pump functions in the same way as a domestic trash disposal, but on a bigger scale: it grinds up wastewater generated in your home (e.g., from toilet usage, shower use, washing machine use, and so on) and pumps it into the public sewage system.

If the principles outlined below are followed, the system will require relatively minimal preventative maintenance in the future.

An audio alert and a red light will illuminate on the system’s control panel if there is any abnormality in the operation of the system.

SYSTEM COMPONENTS

In most cases, grinder pumps are buried underground, with just the lid and its vent, as well as the related control panel box, visible above ground. Please check the illustration for service access places that must be kept free of obstructions at all times. If the property owners so wish, they may have the control panel box painted and maintained at their expense.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Grinder pumps that are in proper working order generate some noise when they are turned on, but the noise should not be distracting. They also have little to no odor, if any at all. Due to the fact that the pump should only be running a few times each day, you should only notice a tiny rise in your power cost.

POWER OUTAGES/HEAVY RAIN

Because the control panel box is powered by electricity, power outages have a negative impact on the ability of your system to work. During power outages, limit the amount of water that may be discharged down pipes.

ALERT THAT REPAIRS ARE NEEDED

Whenever your system requires maintenance, an audible and/or illuminated alarm will sound on your control panel to notify you that servicing is required. It is vital to notify us if the alarm does not turn off within 5 minutes after ceasing water usage. We will come out and make any required repairs.

DURING EXTENDED LEAVE

In order to clean out the pump and avoid smells from accumulating if the inhabitants will be out for a lengthy amount of time, pour water down the drain until you hear the pump turn on.

Please do not switch off the pump while you are away. Pumps must be operated at least once every three months to ensure that they continue to perform correctly.

ROUTINE MAINTENANCE

Blockages in any wastewater system are frequently caused by unsuitable items being flushed down the toilet, pouring inappropriate materials down a drain, or throwing inappropriate waste down the garbage disposal, resulting in the need for maintenance or repairs. They can also occur as a consequence of circumstances beyond the control of the property owner, such as excessive storm water entering the system, freezing conditions, or normal wear and tear on the system’s component parts. Learning the proper way to dispose of household garbage saves the sewage system, lowers expenses, and helps to protect the environment, all at the same time!

What NOT to Flush Down the Toilet, Pour Down a Drain, or Put Down the Disposal

Female hygiene goods, contraceptive devices, and diapers are included in this category. Disinfecting wipes of any sort (even ones that claim to be “flushable”)
Dental floss, Q-tips, cotton balls, paper towels, and face tissues are all good things to have on hand. Food containing cooking or lubricating oils or grease
Fatty meals Cat litter, eggshells, coffee grounds, and other abrasive materials are prohibited. Pills and other prescription drugs
Bottom line: Only flush the 3 Ps (pee, faeces, and toilet paper) and avoid flushing FOG (fats, oils, and grease) down the toilet. It is recommended that you collect the goods specified above, as well as any other non-dissolvable or abrasive objects, and place them in a trash can or other container for disposal with your household garbage, or as otherwise directed on the product’s label. A community-based “Take-Back Initiative” initiative can be used to dispose of medications in an appropriate manner. Those with hazardous garbage can drop it off at one of the approved disposal sites.

PROBLEMS WITH OR QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR SYSTEM?

All LMUD customers who have a grinder pump will be required to pay a maintenance fee as part of their wastewater base payment as of October 1, 2019. With this pricing change, rather than having consumers contact a plumbing firm, LMUD will now be responsible for executing all necessary repairs and preventative maintenance to ensure that the systems continue to operate correctly. It is the obligation of the property owner to contact LMUD in order to initiate a work order for any necessary repairs.

If you have any queries or issues, please contact our main office at the following address: Call (512) 261-6222 x110 or email [email protected] to reach Lakeway MUD at 1097 Lohmans Crossing in Lakeway, Texas.