Solving Ejector Pump Emergencies
If you’re a professional installer who works on residential wastewater systems, you’ve likely received emergency calls about clogged ejector pumps. The reasons for clogs can be varied – from outdated or malfunctioning equipment to increased system demand. It’s up to the installer to recommend a solution that not only resolves the immediate situation – but also prevents it from happening again. In many cases, the solution can be a grinder pump.
Why Grinder Pumps Are Growing in Popularity
Sewage pumps are great for standard residential sewage applications, but today’s high-demand households are often using more flushable products than ever before. If you're encountering issues like clogging or premature system failure, upgrading to a grinder pump can help homeowners benefit in several ways:
- Fewer Clogs, Reduced Service Calls: Grinder pumps are designed to macerate solid waste into smaller particles, reducing the risk of clogs caused by items like flushable wipes, feminine hygiene products, and other debris that may pass through a sewage ejector. Grinder pumps can also handle a broader range of materials, including more challenging solids and fibrous materials, making them suitable for more challenging sewage applications.
- Less Maintenance: While grinder pumps and sewage ejectors require maintenance, grinder pumps may require minimal maintenance due to their ability to handle solid waste more effectively.
- Longer Lifespan, Increased Reliability: Grinder pumps tend to have a longer lifespan than sewage ejectors due to their ability to process solid waste and reduce strain on the system.
- Low Cost of Operation: Grinder pumps have very low electricity consumption because they typically run no more than 15 to 20 minutes each day.
In addition, grinder pumps can be more environmentally friendly since they reduce the likelihood of sewage backups and overflows that can contaminate water sources and cause ecological damage.
System Parameters to Consider When Switching
Switching from a sewage ejector to a grinder pump also means evaluating the infrastructure that’s already in place and selecting a grinder pump that will get the job done. Pump installers will want to consider:
Performance:
- Pump capacity: What is the expected sewage volume, and will there be any surges in use (in rental or vacation properties, for example)? Ensure that the grinder pump provides sufficient capacity to handle the expected sewage volume and any potential surges.
- Horsepower: A grinder pump, typically one horsepower, can often directly replace a half-horsepower sewage ejector.
- Total dynamic head: This includes factors like static head and friction loss.
- How far will the slurry need to be pumped from the grinder to the waste field?
- Does the slurry need to be lifted up and out or is gravity enough to move the waste?
Installation:
- Location: The grinder pump unit will need to be installed close to the main sewage line but with proper ventilation and accessibility for maintenance. Be sure to maintain minimum submergence on the pumps while keeping any alarm floats below the inlet level.
- Electrical requirements: Ensure the availability of a nearby electrical outlet and adequate wiring to power the grinder pump.
- Plumbing discharge size: Ensure the discharge line is 2 inches to allow for proper pump performance.
Other factors:
- Regulatory compliance: Ensure compliance with local building codes and regulations regarding installing and operating grinder pump systems.
The Final Assessment
The choice between a sewage ejector and a grinder pump should be based on factors such as the volume and nature of sewage, the potential for clogging, the required pumping capacity, and budget considerations. Both types of pumps have their advantages and are suitable for different situations: Sewage ejectors are ideal for standard residential applications with lower-pressure sewage systems and minimal solid waste. They are typically less expensive and simpler to install than grinder pumps, while grinder pumps offer increased durability and reliability in challenging sewage conditions. Grinder pumps are suitable for applications where there is a higher risk of clogging due to solid waste or when handling tougher materials like flushable wipes or fibrous materials.
These factors play a crucial role in determining the suitability and efficiency of the pump for the specific application. Proper assessment of these variables ensures optimal performance and longevity of the pumping system.
