How do you install a residential grinder pump?

How do you hook up a sewer grinder pump?

How does a basement grinder pump work?

A grinder pump works like a garbage disposal – it grinds up wastewater from a home (i.e. toilet, shower, washing machine) and pumps it into the public sewer system. A grinder pump is placed in a tank that is buried in a convenient outdoor location on your property. The tank provides wastewater holding storage capacity.

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.

Should I buy a house with a grinder pump?

The standard home is built higher than the sewer line so that gravity will draw wastewater from the sewage system. Not all homes are in this position, and for those homes, it’s necessary to have a grinder pump. Otherwise, the wastewater will back up and contaminate the house.

Do grinder pumps need to be cleaned?

Have your grinder pump checked to make sure it was originally installed properly. Clean your basin and floats every 6 months. (We provide this service.) Do not put any grease, wipes or other items in your drains.

How long does grinder pump 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.

What is the difference between a grinder pump and a sump pump?

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.

How often do grinder pumps need to be replaced?

Grinder pumps average eight years between service calls, so minimal regular maintenance is required when operated under normal conditions.

What can you not put in a grinder pump?

Do not dump oil, grease, paint, strong chemicals, sand, kitty litter, etc. down your drain. Feminine products and personal/cleaning wipes should be disposed of in a garbage can. These items should not be flushed into any sewer or septic system.

How do you unclog a grinder pump?

Do grinder pumps get clogged?

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.

Can you use Drano with a grinder pump?

Protect Your Pump

However, several chemicals and materials should never enter the grinder pump sewer system. Note how small the path is for the wastewater in the diagram! – Strong chemicals, toxic, caustic, or poisonous substances (this includes Drano, Mr. Plumber, etc.)

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.

Can you have a garbage disposal with a grinder pump?

Grinder pumps work like a garbage disposal for your sewer.

Are grinder pumps common?

Grinder pumps are the most common method to power a pressure sewer system.

Can grinder pumps freeze?

It’s important that you are aware of how deep frost can reach in your area; thus ensuring that you have the pump buried deeper. Freezing also damages pipes, thus the need to take care of the plumbing system leading to and from the grinder pump.

Who needs a grinder pump?

Grinder pumps are required where a building’s drain system is at a level below a municipal sewer line or septic tank. Even if a building is at the same level as its sewer line or septic tank, the geography of the site may prevent sewage from flowing fast enough by gravity alone, making a grinder pump necessary.