Last Updated on May 11, 2023
Maintaining your home’s sewage ejector pump may not be the most glamorous task, but it’s crucial. A neglected system can lead to some unpleasant consequences, like sewage backups and costly repairs. Cleaning your ejector pump is a fairly straightforward process.
By turning off the circuit breaker, opening the access panel, checking the oil level, and removing any debris outside the pump, you’ll be well on your way to properly functioning your system.
We’re here to guide you through each step, so you can get the job done and avoid any potential headaches. So, don’t wait. Learn how to keep your system functioning correctly and keep stress and frustration at bay.
How to Clean a Sewage Ejector Pump: From Start to Finish
Don’t let clogs and sewage backups wreak havoc on your home’s plumbing. A well-maintained sewage ejector pump is the key to preventing these issues. Cleaning the pump may seem overwhelming, but you can do it quickly and effectively with the right tools and knowledge.
Here are the steps to efficiently clean your sewage ejector pump:
#Step ONE: Turn off the Circuit Breaker
Before beginning any work on the sewage ejector pump, turning off the circuit breaker to prevent electric shocks and accidents is crucial. This safety measure should not be overlooked, as it could be life-threatening.
Locate the circuit breaker and turn it off to ensure safety during the cleaning process.
#Step TWO: Open the Access Panel on the Holding Tank
After turning off the circuit breaker, locate your holding tank’s access panel. Once located, open the access panel to begin cleaning the tank. Before beginning, remove any debris, such as diapers or paper towels, from the holding tank, as this can cause pump clogs.
#Step THREE: Measure the Oil Level in the Pump Motor
Checking the motor’s oil level is crucial for the proper function of your sewage ejector pump. Use the manufacturer’s recommended method for measuring and adding oil to the pump motor.
Consult the documentation for your specific pump to ensure proper oil level measurement. Contact a professional for assistance if you don’t have the manufacturer’s documentation.
#Step FOUR: Pull Debris from Outside the Pump
Checking the pump surroundings for debris is another critical part of cleaning the sewage ejector pump. It is essential to look for rocks, tree branches, and any debris found within the area surrounding the pump.
Removing debris from the area helps prevent future pump clogs and promotes proper pump function.
#Step FIVE: Examine the Inlet Valve and Open Areas on the Pump
Examining the pump’s inlet valve and open areas is necessary to ensure optimal pump function. Check for debris or clogs, as these can hinder the pump’s performance. If there is any debris, use your hand or tools to remove it, so the sewage ejector pump can work properly.
#Step SIX: Restart the Circuit Breaker And Close the Access Panel
After cleaning the sewage ejector pump, it is time to turn the circuit breaker back on and close the access panel. Once the access panel is closed, turn on the circuit breaker and test the pump to ensure proper function.
If any issues arise, it may be necessary to repeat the cleaning process until optimal pump function is achieved.
What Causes the Ejector Pump to Become Clogged?
Ejector pumps are crucial in homes and properties to dispose of waste and wastewater. Unfortunately, several factors can hinder functionality, leading to clogging and other problems. Here are the most common reasons why ejector pumps clog.
Solid Waste: The primary function of an ejector pump is to handle water, not solid waste. Flushing paper products and feminine hygiene products can cause blockages in the pump. To prevent clogging, disposing of solid waste properly in the trash is crucial.
Grease and Oil: Cooking oils, grease, and fats are a common source of clogs in ejector pumps. When poured down the sink, they can solidify in the pipes over time, reducing the pump’s efficiency. Properly disposing of grease and oil at collection sites or in the trash is a sure way to prevent this problem.
Clogs In the Main Sewer Line: A clog in the main sewer line can lead to wastewater backup into the ejector pump, causing clogs and other problems. Regular maintenance, including snaking the main line, is crucial in preventing this problem.
Insufficient Power: An ejector pump’s power should match the wastewater volume it handles, and an inadequate pump will lead to clogging. Installing the correct pump size for plumbing fixtures such as toilets and sinks is crucial to prevent this problem.
Incorrectly Set Float Valve or Sensors: Float valves or sensors turn the ejector pump on when wastewater reaches a certain level and turn it off when the level drops. A misconfigured float valve or sensor can lead to constant running, clogging the sump basin and causing other problems.
Improper Maintenance: Like any other machinery, ejector pumps require regular maintenance. Lack of maintenance leads to a buildup of debris and solids, causing clogs and other problems. Regular maintenance, including cleaning the pump, the sump pit, and its components, is essential.
How Often Should An Ejector Pump Be Cleaned?
Routine maintenance of an ejector pump is crucial for ensuring its efficient performance and longevity. This involves cleaning the pump at least once or twice a year, depending on the specific usage conditions. In some cases, heavy usage may require more frequent cleaning.
A clean ejector pump prevents clogging and damage to important parts due to debris buildup, ensuring the safety of the pump operation. Moreover, maintenance checks can detect and address potential issues before they escalate into costly and extensive repairs.
Therefore, it is highly recommended to have a maintenance schedule that includes regular cleaning of the ejector pump to keep it in optimal condition.
What Is the Life Expectancy of a Sewage Ejector Pump If Not Cleaned Regularly?
An ejector pump’s life expectancy is typically 7 to 10 years or longer. However, if the pump is not cleaned and maintained regularly, its life expectancy may decrease. Neglecting the maintenance of the pump can result in clogging, corrosion, and decreased performance.
When the pump is clogged or corroded, it has to work harder to move sewage through the system, which can accelerate wear and tear on the pump’s mechanical components. Furthermore, the buildup of debris in the pump can cause it to fail prematurely, leading to costly repairs or replacement.
Therefore, to ensure the longevity of your sewage pump, a professional must have it cleaned and maintained regularly.
What Not to Put In An Ejector Pump While Cleaning?
When cleaning and maintaining your ejector pump, it is crucial to be mindful of what you put into it. It is important to avoid flushing anything down the toilet besides waste and toilet paper in order to avoid potential issues and costly repairs.
Even wipes that are touted as “flushable” could cause a problem by becoming stuck in the pump and creating issues in your tank. In addition to this, it is important to steer clear of harsh chemicals and detergents. These substances can cause damage to the pump, leading to blockages and clogs down the line.
It is crucial to use only products specifically designed for use with ejector pumps and exercise caution when performing any maintenance or cleaning tasks.
Don’t Neglect Your Sewage Ejector Pump Cleaning
Maintaining your sewage ejector pump is not something that should be taken lightly. As we conclude this topic, it’s clear that this small effort will go a long way in ensuring the smooth operation of your system. Failing to maintain your pump properly can leave you in a messy and inconvenient situation.
Avoiding such an outcome is as simple as disconnecting the power supply and removing any debris that could disrupt the system’s function. Following the above steps, you can protect your home and wallet from costly plumbing repairs.
The peace of mind that comes with knowing that your sewage ejector pump is in good condition is invaluable.
