What Does A Grinder Pump And Septic Tank Do? (Perfect answer)

  • Grinder pumps are a necessary piece of equipment commonly found in septic systems. These devices churn waste from homes or businesses and then pump it through a sewer or septic tank, reducing clogging and ensuring the wastewater flows properly. Below is a detailed rundown of what grinder pumps do. The Basics

Do you need a septic tank with a grinder pump?

Typically, the grinder pump is installed right in a septic tank. The septic tank grinder pump is needed because in this case, it’s sending black water to an uphill location, such as a septic tank, municipal sewer system, or sewage pumping center.

Can you use a grinder pump with a septic system?

Septic grinder pumps should not be paired with septic tank systems because the slurry is so finely ground that it won’t separate from the liquid once inside the septic tank. This means that it won’t get sent on to the secondary system, which can destroy your underground leach field.

Is a grinder pump the same as a septic system?

Some sewage pumps are grinder pumps, but not all. 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.

Why would a house need a grinder pump?

WHY DO I NEED A GRINDER PUMP? Grinder pumps are used to provide sewer service to areas that cannot be serviced by a gravity sewer. Likewise, a pressure house connection uses the grinder pump to pump waste from the house into a low-pressure sewer line or sometimes directly into a gravity line.

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.

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.

Do I need a sewage pump or a grinder pump?

You should only use a Sewage Grinder Pump when one the following apply to your application: When pumping to a pressurized sewer main. When pumping a very long distance (750 feet or more) You have a high vertical distance to lift the sewage (minimum of 30 feet)

Do grinder pumps require maintenance?

Grinder pumps do not need to be pumped out because they pump out the wastewater once the contents reach a certain level. Grinder pumps average eight years between service calls, so minimal regular maintenance is required when operated under normal conditions.

How do you maintain a grinder pump?

What to Check during Septic Grinder Pump Maintenance

  1. Inspect oil level and check for contamination in septic grinder pump motor chamber.
  2. Inspect pump impeller and body for any clogs or clotting (buildup).
  3. Inspect pump motor and bearings.
  4. Inspect grinder pump motor seal for wear and possible leaks.

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.

How much does it cost to install a 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.

Can a grinder pump handle tampons?

A sewage grinder pump can easily handle 2 inch solids, and will also be able to handle difficult artificial solids, like feminine hygiene products (pads, tampons, etc), rags, towels, diapers, diaper wipes, napkins, underwear, and a range of other things that shouldn’t be flushed down toilets but often are.

Does a grinder pump 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.

Are grinder pumps noisy?

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.

Does homeowners insurance cover grinder pumps?

How to Get Comprehensive Coverage. Fortunately, there’s a way to protect yourself financially in the event of a grinder pump failure. Liberty Home Guard’s warranty coverage can cover some or all of the expense of repairing or replacing your grinder pump if it fails due to normal wear and tear.

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. Grinding pumps are commonly used with basement toilets to pump sewage up into sewer lines for a home or utility with the solids still intact, or when a home is located in a low area and sewage must be pump uphill into the sewer or septic system. Some grinder pumps are used, but not all, in the sewage pumping process. Grinder pumps are a form of sewage pump that is subdivided. Generally speaking, sewage pumps that are not grinder pumps are capable of transporting sewage particles up to two inches in diameter that are easily broken down or disintegrated.

A conventional sewage pump that is not a grinder pump, on the other hand, is often less costly and consumes less electricity.

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.

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.

Differences Between Sewage Pumps and Grinder Pumps

Despite the fact that they sound similar, sewage and grinder pumps work in a completely different 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. Grand Valley Plumbing takes great satisfaction in assisting homeowners in maintaining the functionality of their plumbing systems.

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 built in the yard, the holding tank must be buried deep enough so the pump and sewage lines are below thefrost 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.

  1. (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.
  2. Both a buzzer and an indication light should be included on the alarm panel.
  3. 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.
  4. In this instance, it is possible to add more than one inlet.
  5. The tank has a lid manufactured from heavy-duty plastic or metal that is bolted and/or padlocked shut to prevent entrance by unauthorized individuals.
See also:  How To Help An Aging Septic Tank? (Perfect answer)

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.

  1. If you have a residence that is not linked to a gravity sewer system, you should avoid flushing or pouring down any drains.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.

See also

  • SWA (Submersible Wastewater Pump Association) recommends that just the three Ps (pee, poop, and toilet paper) be flushed.

Sewage Ejector Pumps -vs- Sewage Grinder Pumps

In the sales department at Septic Solutions®, we get many phone inquiries concerning submersible sewage pumps. 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.

  1. Sewage GrinderPumps are capable of doing so, pushing fluids at approximately 60 pounds per square inch (p.s.i.).
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. The majority of manufacturers rely on that bare minimum of head pressure to maintain the RPMs of the electric motor as low as possible.

When that head pressure is not present, the motors spin faster, leading them to draw more current and run hotter, which will eventually cause them to fail far more quickly than they would otherwise have done so.

WHICH PUMP SHOULD I USE?

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

  1. When pumping to a pressurized sewage main
  2. 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:

  1. When sewage is being pumped to a septic tank
  2. When sewage is being pumped to a gravity sewer line
  3. In the case of short distance sewage pumping (750 feet or less)
  4. 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

Specialty units such as the Liberty ProVore Residential Grinder and the Myers VRS Residential Grinderpumps, both with a horsepower of one horsepower, are meant to be used in place of residential sewage ejector pumps with a horsepower of four to ten horsepower. On these machines, there is no requirement for a minimum head, and they have the same cutting action as the bigger commercial grinder pumps, but with a smaller 1.0 horsepower motor. If the information discussed in the article above does not make it clear which pump you should use, please contact us at 1-877-925-5132 and we will be happy to show you exactly which pump would be best for your application.

Grinder Pump Questions and Answers – Everything You Need to Know

It is critical to properly size and pick a grinder pump station in order to ensure that the pump lasts as long as possible. The following are some general principles for determining station size. If you want additional assistance, please visit the Design Center or contact E/One. E/One develops a single grinder pump that is available in a variety of tank sizes to meet the needs of customers. Station size takes a variety of aspects into account, including:- whether the application is residential or non-residential/commercial – The total daily flow that is expected (not the number of water-using fixtures) – Regulatory policies and procedures (local, regional, or national) The most typical use for pressure sewer systems is in single-family residential settings, which is the most prevalent kind of installation.

  • Each residence is equipped with a grinder pump station that is appropriately suited for the residence.
  • There are a variety of other configurations available.
  • When it comes to non-residential and commercial applications, the sizing of E/One grinder pump stations is more complicated.
  • E/One normally makes use of the known/estimated flow from Table H 201.1 (4) of UPC Appendix H for the year 2021.

This estimate of flow is based on the intended usage of the facility as well as the anticipated occupancy. E/One avoids employing fixture counts since, in our experience, flow is often overstated and resulting in an enormous system.

5 Reasons You Don’t Need A Grinder Pump

Posted on the web by On a very regular basis, I pick up the phone and the customer on the other end is looking for a grinder pump, and I make no attempt to deny that this is true. I frequently find out that they are not seeking for a grinder pump at all. In other circumstances, the client is searching for a pump that is reliable in its ability to handle solid sewage without blocking or jamming the pump. That is not to imply that the majority of clients who require a grinder pump do not, but there are a few crucial considerations to keep in mind if a grinder pump is your only alternative.

  1. The solids in my last pump were stuck, and I’m looking for a pump that would shred the solids, slice them, chop them, and grind them so that I don’t have to deal with this again.
  2. This could not be further from the truth, and it may easily (and frequently does) result in thousands of dollars being spent and considerably more difficulties than were before there.
  3. Grinder uses are frequently confined to situations in which there is no septic tank present and the sewage must be transported a long distance and/or at an elevation above ground level.
  4. I must emphasize that, in virtually every instance, if you did not previously have a grinder pump, you do not require one at this time.
  5. Maleprophylactic s, baby and bath wipes, feminine hygiene products, and even heavy duty paper towels are included in this category of items.
  6. To perform this cutting operation, a significant amount of extra torque is required.
  7. When it comes to torque, a grinder pump starts off with a lot of it, which allows it to swiftly chop solids that are already in the blades.
  8. I have personally witnessed a grinder pump become stuck on a little piece of toilet paper, which was caused by a lack of torque at the beginning of the process.
  9. Despite the fact that a home can easily regulate what goes down the toilet, it might be more difficult to control what guests flush.

A grinder pump will virtually never be sold with a guarantee that lasts more than 12 months from the date of manufacture or installation. This is mostly owing to the high failure rate of these types of pumps, which is a contributing factor.

  1. They are extremely susceptible to being blocked or obstructed
  2. If a grinder pump becomes clogged even once, it has the potential to damage the motor and starting components. A grinder pump is a high-priced item to acquire, and it frequently requires an additional control panel, which increases the price even more. Grinder pumps have extremely high energy costs because the torque necessary to execute the cutting increases the amount of motor horsepower required, resulting in extremely inefficient operation of the grinder. Even under ideal conditions, grinder pumps have a lifespan of just a few years before they need to be replaced or repaired
  3. Nonetheless,

In the event that you already possess a grinder pump or are contemplating purchasing a grinder pump for a new construction project, please contact us so that we can assist you in determining whether or not a grinder pump is appropriate for your application. Maybe we may save you money while delivering a more dependable sewage pumping system.

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 typically housed in a holding tank in a basement or buried deeply below the frost line of the ground. 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.

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

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.

Contact us now! They also offer emergency services that are available the same day and 24 hours a day. Please contact them at (715) 325-1984 or visit their website for a complete list of services and hours.

Sewage Grinder Pumps vs Ejector Pumps FAQ: What’s the Difference, and Which Do You Need?

In the last year, we’ve looked at a variety of different sewage pumps, including sewage grinder pumps and sewage ejector pumps, among others. But what exactly is the difference between the two types of pumps, and which one is the best choice for your house or small company is unclear. We’ll answer both of these questions, as well as a few more, further down. However, if you’re in a hurry, the short and sweet of it is that while both are designed to handle sewage (i.e, urine and feces), grinder pumps are also capable of handling flushed trash, making them a better (though more expensive) choice for critical (e.g., commercial) situations; you can typically get away with an ejector in most residential situations.

  1. Essentially, it’s a more powerful version of a sump pump.
  2. The impellers, which rotate swiftly, move raw sewage vertically up and under pressure from the input to the outlet, where it joins to a discharge pipe.
  3. A sewage ejector pump is capable of handling particles up to 2 inches in diameter and has a power range of 3/10 horsepower to 2 horsepower, depending on the model.
  4. Their products are available in a variety of configurations, including freestanding versions and pre-assembled simplex and duplex systems (which include sewage basins).
  5. Grinders are more expensive than ejector pumps, which will be explored in greater depth later on in this article.
  6. Pre-assembled systems of high quality include the Liberty Pumps P382LE51 and the Liberty Pumps P372LE51, among others.
  7. They are meant to handle sewage in the same way as ejector pumps are.

Their high pressure and low volume characteristics are frequently referred to as high pressure and low volume pumps because they will push sewage more slowly than ejector pumps, but they can do so over much longer distances and to much greater heights, and they can withstand significantly higher pressures at the sewer main.

  • They can pump sewage at rates of up to 3,000 gallons per hour (50 gallons per minute) over extremely long distances (multiple thousand feet), with maximum head pressures ranging from 40 to 120 feet or more.
  • In the same way as ejector pumps are marketed as independent components, sewage grinder pumps are sold as part of pre-assembled simplex or duplex systems that include sewage basins.
  • Grinder pumps are generally more expensive than ejector pumps, but they can typically perform the same functions as ejector pumps while having a longer service life.
  • What is the quick answer?
  • As you can see, both types of pumps are employed to transport sewage; however, while their capabilities can overlap to some extent, there are significant variations between the two that make them more suited to various sewage conditions than one another.
  • In such a situation, a sewage ejector pump (which pumps sewage against gravity) will most likely be sufficient to complete the task.
  • A grinder pump will prevent these types of obstructions from clogging the pump impellers.

As previously said, if your family members are accustomed to utilizing your toilets as trash cans or garbage disposals, you may want a full-on grinder.

This is the stage at which we would propose that the majority of homeowners purchase a grinder pump rather than an ejector pump.

You may save time and money if you’re a landlord with tenants who live in their own single-family house or duplex and require a sewage pump due to below-grade or septic tank situations by installing a sewage grinder pump from the beginning.

That’s the level of assurance that a well-designed grinder pump can supply.

Finally, if you own a small business (for example, a restaurant, a dentist office, a counseling center, an accounting or tax firm) and want a sewage pump, there’s little doubt that you’ll prefer a sewage grinder pump rather than an ejector pump to meet your needs.

Investing a few hundred dollars more today will save you tens of thousands of dollars in plumber fees, labor, and new ejector pumps over the course of your business’s lifetime.

You may read our evaluations on a variety of suggested sewage pumps by clicking on the link above.

The Zoeller M267 is available for purchase here.

Despite the fact that we are self-employed, we vow not to spend the entire amount for health insurance.

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.

Design and Use Considerations for Septic Systems With Grinder Pumps

The effluent from a grinder collecting system is treated in a Sludge Judge.

Interested in Pumps?

Get the latest Pumps articles, news, and videos delivered directly to your email! Now is the time to sign up. Pumps+ Receive Notifications Pumps in the basement are utilized for two separate sorts of pump applications: clean water and wastewater. Sump, grinder, and ejector pumps are all employed in the basement. Submersible sump pumps are responsible for dealing with footing drains and other clean water sources. It is imperative that they do not discharge into the soil treatment system, and that the discharge is even diverted away from the system in order to prevent extra water entering the system.

  • Grinding pumps break up large chunks of sewage into tiny particles before pumping them away into the sewer system.
  • These pumps are also used to elevate sewage into a collecting line or into a septic tank that is buried at a deeper depth than the rest of the system.
  • To keep turbulence to a minimum, it is advised that each dosage into the tank be between 1 and 5 percent of the entire septic tank volume.
  • As a result, the maximum amount of energy can be reduced before entering the septic tank.
  • Additionally, the separation of the tiny solids that are being applied will be improved, and energy in the flow stream will be reduced as a result of this.
  • Grinding pumps can also be used in a cluster system, which is another application for which they are suitable.
  • When the University of Minnesota collected effluent from seventeen cluster locations using a variety of collection technologies in 2004, they were able to compare the effluent results.
  • Six of the sites have gravity collection systems, six have grinder pump collection systems, and one has a gravity collection system with a grinder pump lift station.
  • The sludge and scum levels in the septic tanks were measured with a Sludge Judge with an outside diameter of 1 1/4 inches.

When calculating the hydraulic retention time (HRT), we used the following formula: HRT (days) = Tank Capacity (gallons) / Flow (gallons per minute) (gpd) Table 1 provides a high-level overview of the information.

Parameter Gravity Grinder
Median Design Flows HRT 1.4 days 1.5 days
Median Actual Flows HRT 2.4 days 5.5 days
Median BOD5 204 mg/L 268 mg/L
Median TSS 58 mg/L 64 mg/L

Table 1 shows the findings of the University of Minnesota Cluster Tank Study. When comparing sludge from grinder collections systems to sludge from gravity collections systems, the sludge from the grinder collections systems seemed coarser and less digested, as indicated in the illustration. According to the findings of this study, the effluent from grinder pump collection may not settle out as effectively as it should in septic tanks. When using a cluster system without further pretreatment, the following guidelines are now in effect: gravity collection — three days of design HDT; and grinder pump collection — four days.

She has a master’s degree in civil engineering and a doctorate in environmental engineering.

The Minnesota Onsite Wastewater Association (MOWA) and the National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association (NOWRA) both have education chairs, and Heger is a committee member of the National Sanitation Foundation’s International Committee on Wastewater Treatment Systems.

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She will respond as soon as she can.

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 collect near the tank vent on these older models, as this could cause the unit to fail. The ground should also be sloped away from the tank vent on these older models. 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 products, or any other type of cloth
  • Explosive or flammable materials, such as gasoline or lighter fluid
  • Kitty 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.

Septic Tank Pump: When You Need One & When to Call a Pro

When it comes to septic tank pumps, what’s the difference between them and do you really need one in your system? Here’s a brief guide to septic tank pumps: there are three major types of septic tank pumps: a sump pump, a septiceffluent pump, and a grinder pump. A sump pump is the most common type of septic tank pump. We’re pleased to assist you in determining whether or not you require one of these pumps in your septic system. Note: This is only a short reference and not an in-depth how-to; always contact us before attempting to fix an aseptic tank problem on your own.

Septic Tank Sump Pump

Sump pumps, also known as de-watering pumps, are often used in extremely wet areas to remove excess water from basements and foundations as a result of major weather events. This is a pump that is used primarily for insurance purposes, to ensure that buildings preserve structural integrity even in extremely wet situations. Sump pumps are occasionally used in septic systems, however they are utilized seldom since there are better options available if a pump is required.

Septic Tank Grinder Pump

Have you ever wondered how the process of pumping septic uphill is accomplished? Use a Grinder pump to get the job done. It is the purpose of these septic tank pumps to grind and transfer black water or sewage from one location to another, grinding the sediments so that everything fits into ordinary pipe (typically 2″ in diameter). In most cases, the grinder pump is positioned directly in the aseptic tank itself. Septic tank grinder pumps are required in this situation because black water is being sent uphill to a septic tank, municipal sewer system, or wastewater pumping center via the sewage pumping center.

Sewage Tank Effluent Pump

They are solely designed to carry cleared effluent from a septic chamber (not a tank) to a drain field and are not intended to be used in conjunction with a tank. You should use caution if you are pumping cleared effluent from a septic pumping chamber (meaning a separate holding place downstream from the main septic tank). The removal of this pump from the tank, which contains solids and scum, is vital due to the fact that it is incapable of breaking down solids. Before installing a septic tank pump in your system, ALWAYS consult with a professional septic tank service provider first to ensure that the pump is appropriate for your system.

Whether you have concerns regarding your septic system, the possibility of requiring a pump, or the expenses associated with installing a pump for yourseptic system, we will be happy to answer them.

As always, if you have questions about your septic tank system or needservice, please give us a call at(260)-982-7111.

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. All LMUD customers who have a grinder pump will be able to contact the utility starting on October 1, 2019, for maintenance and repairs to their 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 can 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

A loud and/or illuminated alarm on your control panel will notify you that servicing is required if your system is in need of attention. It is necessary to contact us if the alarm does not go off within 5 minutes of ceasing water use. We will come out and make any necessary repairs.

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.

Please report any inquiries or complaints to our main office: Call (512) 261-6222 x110 or email [email protected] to reach Lakeway MUD at 1097 Lohmans Crossing in Lakeway, Texas.

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