Last Updated on May 11, 2023
If you’re looking for a way to manage wastewater in your home or commercial building, consider a sewage ejector or grinder pump. Although they both serve the same basic purpose of moving wastewater, you should know some key differences between them.
But one of the main differences is pump size. Sewage ejector pumps are bigger and more potent than grinder pumps because they handle larger sewage volumes.
Furthermore, their purposes of use differ greatly from one another. Sewage ejector pumps move raw sewage from basements or lower levels to main sewer lines. Grinding pumps pump solids into septic tanks or pressure sewer systems.
Today we’ll look at the sewage ejector pump vs grinder pump debate so that you can decide which option is right for you. Read on to find out more about the differences between sewage ejector pumps and grinder pumps.
Sewage Ejector Pump VS Grinder Pump: Differences
Regarding handling sewage from buildings, two types of pumps can be utilized, sewage ejector pumps and grinder pumps. Despite being used for similar purposes, the two have significant differences.
Using Purposes
Sewage ejector pumps and grinder pumps are used for different purposes. Sewage ejector pumps are designed to pump raw sewage from a building’s basement or lower level to the main sewer line.
In contrast, grinder pumps are designed to grind up solids and pump them into a pressure sewer system or septic tank. This difference in purpose plays a significant role in the type of pump that should be selected for a particular application.
Solids Handling
The ability to handle solids is another significant difference between ejector pumps and grinder pumps. Sewage ejector pumps can handle solid waste up to 2 inches in diameter, sufficient for smaller debris such as toilet paper, human waste, and other small objects.
Meanwhile, grinder pumps can handle larger solids and more arduous waste, such as feminine hygiene products, diapers, and wipes. Grinder pumps are particularly useful when heavy-duty solids are present or sewage flow is low.
Pump Size
The difference in the intended use and solids handling capabilities of sewage ejector and grinder pumps also affects pump size. Sewage ejector pumps tend to be larger and more powerful than grinder pumps because they are designed to handle higher volumes of sewage.
Due to the relatively smaller solids that need to be handled, grinder pumps can be smaller and more compact. This is particularly useful in areas with limited space, such as small buildings or homes.
Installation Requirements
The installation requirements for sewage ejector pumps and grinder pumps differ significantly. Sewage ejector pumps require a sump pit or basin to collect sewage before it is pumped out, while grinder pumps can be installed directly in the sewage line.
This difference in installation requirements means that installing a grinder pump requires less space and may be more suitable for properties with limited outdoor space for excavation work. However, it also means that a grinder pump may be more challenging to access for maintenance and repair work.
Pressure Capabilities
Grinder pumps are typically designed to operate at higher pressures than sewage ejector pumps. This is because they are often used in pressure sewer systems, which require higher pressure to move sewage uphill and over long distances.
By contrast, sewage ejector pumps are better suited to systems that rely on gravity to move sewage through the pipe network. Homeowners and facility managers should consider the pressure requirements of their sewage system when choosing between these two pump types.
Backup Systems
Regarding backup systems, sewage ejector pumps are generally superior to grinder pumps. This is because ejector pumps are critical to preventing basement flooding and often come with backup systems such as battery-powered backup pumps or alarms that alert the homeowner in case of pump failure.
By contrast, grinder pumps may not have backup systems built-in and may require additional equipment to provide backup in case of pump failure. For this reason, homeowners and facility managers who prioritize system reliability and the prevention of sewage backups may prefer sewage ejector pumps.
Electrical Requirements
Grinder pumps are more powerful and require higher voltage and amperage due to their powerful motors and higher pressure capabilities. Conversely, sewage ejector pumps are designed to handle relatively more minor volumes of wastewater and do not require as much power.
Maintenance Requirements
The maintenance requirements of ejector and grinder pumps are also significantly different. Since sewage ejector pumps have fewer moving parts than grinder pumps, they require less frequent maintenance.
Also, sewage ejector pumps are typically easier to service, and homeowners can handle most routine maintenance tasks. Conversely, grinder pumps have more complex systems and moving parts, making them more challenging to maintain.
What is a sewage ejector pump used for?
A sewage ejector pump is a crucial component in a plumbing system when the home’s plumbing fixtures are below the main sewer or septic line. It helps move wastewater from the lower levels of a building up to the sewer or septic line level.
These pumps are typically found in basements, crawl spaces, or other areas below the level of the pipes that drain to the main sewer line. They are used to prevent basement flooding and the backup of wastewater, which can lead to health hazards and property damage.
How do I know if I need a sewage ejector pump?
If you have water-consuming appliances or bathrooms installed in the lower levels of your home or have a basement, you likely need a sewage ejector pump.
Without an ejector pump, the wastewater from these appliances or fixtures would have nowhere to go, leading to clogs and overflows that could create harmful and unsanitary situations. A qualified plumber can assess your plumbing system and determine if a sewage ejector pump is necessary.
How many years does an ejector pump last?
A sewage ejector pump breaks down over time like any other mechanical device. However, they are typically designed to handle multiple years of use without needing repairs or replacement.
The life expectancy of a sewage ejector pump depends on several factors, such as frequency of use, quality of installation, and maintenance history. While most sewage ejector pumps can last up to 10 years, proper upkeep and timely repairs can extend their lifespan.
Where does a grinder pump go?
A grinder pump is a sewage ejector pump that processes wastewater from the home’s plumbing system by shredding solid material. A grinder pump is placed in a basin or tank, typically buried in a convenient location on the homeowner’s property.
Since the pump is relatively small, it can be installed in tight spaces, and the basin’s size can be adjusted to accommodate larger households or higher flow rates. The bay’s location should be carefully chosen to minimize unsightly exposure and allow convenient access to the pump for maintenance and repairs.
How do I know if I need a grinder pump?
Grinder pumps are designed explicitly for low-pressure sewer systems in which homes are located below the sewer line and need to pump uphill or are situated far away from the sewer line, making it impossible to connect by gravity.
Suppose you find that your residence is far away from any sewer line and connecting by a gravity sewer line is impossible. In that case, a residential sewage grinder pump is the ideal solution.
It is important to note that verifying that your community has a suitable low-pressure sewer system is crucial before installing a grinder pump.
What can a grinder pump handle?
Residential sewage grinder pumps have a lower volume capacity than other sewage pumps, ranging between 35 and 70 gallons per minute. However, they can transport sewage long distances, spanning several thousands of feet.
The pumps are equipped with a powerful motor that grinds sewage and waste material to a fine slurry, which is then transported through small diameter pipes with a high force, easily reaching the destination.
Are grinder pumps used with septic systems?
Generally, residential grinder pumps should not be paired with a septic tank system. The finely ground slurry may not separate correctly during the treatment process in the septic tank system. The use of a grinder pump would overload the septic system.
Instead, grinder pumps are advisable in low-pressure sewage systems where wastewater is conveyed via a force leading to a treatment plant.
What’s the life expectancy of a grinder pump?
A grinder pump has a relatively long life span, and it can last around eight years between service calls with minimal maintenance. However, the longevity of these pumps mostly depends on the usage, quality of the pump installed, and regular maintenance.
It’s crucial to hire a professional for installation and maintenance rather than doing it yourself to ensure the pump’s safety, longevity, and proper operation. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can extend the lifespan of the grinder pump, and it can perform efficiently for years.
Discover the Perfect Wastewater Solution: Investigate Sewage Ejector and Grinder Pumps
The sewage ejector pump and grinder pump debate requires careful consideration. Both types of pumps have their advantages and disadvantages, and the right choice for you will depend on the specific needs of your building.
Whether you opt for a larger sewage ejector pump or a smaller grinder pump, it’s essential to work with a professional plumber who can help you choose the right option, install it correctly, and ensure that it remains in good working order.
So, if you’re looking for a reliable and efficient way to manage your wastewater, don’t hesitate to speak with a plumbing expert today.
