Plumbing 101: Sewage Pumps
Sewage pumps are often necessary in houses which are low-lying or which need help moving waste to a septic tank. Because of the cost, expense and horrible smells associated with replacing malfunctioning pumps it is important to always select and install a pump which is reliable and designed to last for decades, if not longer. A good sewage pump is something that is noticed largely when it isn’t working. Even though modern models are designed to be replaced without digging or entering the septic system, replacing them is time consuming and costly. As with any home plumbing, you will want to err on the side of caution.
Modern sewage pumps are designed to operate while fully submerged at all times. This means that waterproofing is key, and so a good pump is designed so that no potentially vulnerable parts are exposed to any liquids. Sewage tends to be extremely corrosive, and so all parts that come into contact with the sewage need to be made out of plastic. Impellers are now traditionally mounted within magnetic propulsion systems to ensure that the motor can be isolated completely from the environment. This allows them to operate for years without needing repairs, and may in fact enable them to outlast the house if properly installed. The primary enemy of these models is clogs, most often caused by objects like paper towels being flushed down the toilet.
It is also important to ensure that a sewage pump’s location is known and that it is properly installed so that it can quickly and easily be removed by a professional. It is not recommended that homeowners install, repair or replace a sewage pump, not only because of the inherent unpleasantness involved, but also because of the difficulty involved. An improperly installed pump may not malfunction for years, and when it does malfunction it may be difficult to remove. Many professional installers also provide plans for regular maintenance and repair, which is important when keeping a sewage pump functioning properly for extended periods.
Related posts: