Sump Pumps and Ejector Pumps

Upon purchasing a new home, you find a pump in the basement and you have no idea what it’s for. First off, don’t be embarrassed. This is one of the most common questions asked by customers of sewer-septic service providers. Second, chances are, the pump is either a sump pump or an ejector pump.

Sump Pump 

A sump pump is used to drain excess water from the basement to keep it from flooding. This is especially important in coastal and other areas that are prone to flooding. Sump pumps keep excess water at bay and also help preserve foundations from cracking due to pressure from groundwater.

Typically, the sump pump is installed in a sump pit, a specially made hole for holding excess water from drains and natural water migration. When the water reaches a certain level, the sump pump lifts the water out of the hole and away from the building.

It’s always a good idea to have a battery back up for your sump pump. These are usually relatively inexpensive and easy to install and worth every penny if you want to avoid costly damages due to a basement flood.

Ejector Pump 

An ejector pump may resemble a sump pump, but it has an entirely different purpose. An ejector pump’s job is to pump solid waste and wastewater from toilets and sinks that are below the main water line. It is most often seen in houses with bathrooms or washing machines in the basement.

The ejector pump is placed in an ejector basin, a pit in the floor that is connected to sewer or septic pipes. The pump grinds up any solids, then pumps the effluent up from the basement and out to the septic system or city sewer.

One important note about ejector pumps is that the ejector basin must be sealed to avoid leakage of methane, a dangerously explosive gas. If you notice any foul smells around the basin, it is essential you call your sewer-septic right away to investigate and make any necessary repairs or replacements.