Sewage ejector pumps are essential to septic systems and must be installed correctly to maintain a clean and healthy home.

As these installations require technical knowledge, hiring a professional plumber is highly advised. Even for experienced DIYers, undertaking such a project may prove challenging, and there are many potential risks involved.

Nonetheless, this blog post will discuss the importance of this unit and how to install a sewage ejector pump in your basement—i.e., the process that a plumber will follow when you call them.

What is a sewage ejector pump?

A sewage ejector pump helps to safely and efficiently remove wastewater from your home. It does so by pumping waste and water from the basement to an elevated septic tank or sewer line, preventing clogs and backups that could lead to costly repairs.

While most homes have gravity-based systems that allow waste to flow easily into the septic tank, many basements or lower levels require additional assistance due to their location below the main sewer line. This is where a sewage ejector pump comes in, as it lifts and transports wastewater from these lower areas to the septic tank.

These units are typically installed with a basin or pit that collects the wastewater from the various drains and fixtures in your basement, such as toilets, sinks, showers, and washing machines. Once enough wastewater has accumulated, the pump is activated to push it up and out of the basement.

Without them, wastewater can’t exit your home, resulting in health hazards and potential property damage. In other words, ejector pumps play a vital role in maintaining a proper home sewer system.

Tools to install a sewage ejector pump

Once you’ve contacted a plumber to install your unit, they’ll gather the following tools to get started:

  • Personal protective equipment (a mask, goggles, and gloves)

  • Teflon tape

  • A shovel

  • A level

  • A pipe wrench

  • A chisel and hammer

  • A power drill (and accompanying bits)

Steps for installing a sewage ejector pump in a basement

Here’s a step-by-step for how to install a sewage ejector pump in your basement for an effective septic system.

Step 1: Figure out where the unit will be installed

First you’ll need to determine where the unit will be installed, which may depend on your home’s sewage system configuration. It’s recommended to position the pump near a drain inlet or slightly beneath the basement floor.

It’s also advisable to choose an area with adequate air circulation, as this can help reduce unpleasant odors.

Step 2: Make room for the unit

Prepare the site by digging out an area to comfortably accommodate the pump and its components. The space should be twice the length and width of the unit to ensure a proper fit. Additionally, ensure that the area is leveled and free from any obstacles or debris.

Step 3: Place the pump down and double-check that it’s leveled

After space has been dug out, secure the pump in place. Properly attaching and securing the unit to the floor is vital for successful installation, which is why it’s recommended to use anchors as an extra measure. To do so, drill pilot holes into the concrete and use masonry screws to fasten the unit into place.

To ensure optimal functionality, use a level and verify that the mounting bolts are evenly aligned.

Step 4: Connect all piping to the unit

Next, use a pipe wrench to link the outlet and inlet pipes from the pump to their corresponding lines. Take special care to ensure proper alignment. After securing each connection, create a watertight seal with Teflon tape, wrapping it around each joint. This preventive measure will eliminate the risk of potential leaks.

Step 5: Link the pump to a power source and test it

Once everything has been joined, power up the unit by connecting it to an energy source. This may involve turning on a designated breaker switch or flipping a power switch.

After you’ve confirmed that it’s on, test the system by pouring water into the inlet pipe and checking that it runs properly through.

Step 6: Seal any openings

To ensure that your sewage ejector pump functions properly and without any unpleasant odors, it’s important to seal any openings. This can be done with a chisel and hammer to fill in gaps or cracks around the unit. This will keep odors from escaping and will also prevent pests from entering through any small openings.

While it may seem like a troublesome task, taking the time to seal any openings is beneficial in the long run.

Choose J. Blanton to install your sewage ejector pump

Due to the physical labor, technical plumbing expertise, and tools involved with installing a pump, many homeowners prefer to hire a professional plumber for the job.

If you live in the Chicagoland area, consider J. Blanton. We’ve been providing quality service for over 30 years and are available around the clock to help with all of your plumbing needs.

Reach out by calling us or filling out our contact form!