Sewage Ejector Pumps in Ellicott City, MD
The function of a sewage ejector pump is to take wastewater from plumbing fixtures that are situated below the main sewer line and move it along. At Metcalf Plumbing, we offer a full range of services for these pumps from inspection and installation to any necessary repairs or replacement. Such service is the best way to shield a basement from the mess of a sewage backup, contaminated water, and the odors that come with them.
How the Pump Works
In most of the house, gravity is enough to carry wastewater through the drains. But a utility sink or bathroom in the basement might be at a lower elevation than the sewer connection. The wastewater will run into a sealed basin where the ejector pump is housed. Once the basin has filled to a point, a float turns on the pump; it then forces the waste up a discharge pipe and out to the septic tank or main line. A check valve prevents any backflow after the cycle is done, and a vent is put in place to manage pressure and let sewer gases escape.
There is a distinction between an ejector and a sump pump. The latter is for ridding the foundation of rainwater or groundwater. An ejector is built to handle the solid material found in toilet or shower waste. It is not wise to connect the two systems improperly as it can lead to sanitation and odor issues.
There is a distinction between an ejector and a sump pump. The latter is for ridding the foundation of rainwater or groundwater. An ejector is built to handle the solid material found in toilet or shower waste. It is not wise to connect the two systems improperly as it can lead to sanitation and odor issues.
Repairing Your Ejector Pump
If one notices slow drains in the basement, a grinding sound, or wastewater pooling near the basin, it is time for a look. A pump that runs but does not move anything could have a bad motor, a clogged intake, or a faulty check valve. On a service call, our technician will examine the electricals, the sewer line, the lid, and the pump itself. We may need to clear a blockage, put in a new switch or valve, or fix a loose connection.
Should the pump give out, the homeowner should cease using the basement plumbing. If the basin overfills, wastewater will make its way into the home. In the event of a backup or potential water damage, emergency service is called for.
Should the pump give out, the homeowner should cease using the basement plumbing. If the basin overfills, wastewater will make its way into the home. In the event of a backup or potential water damage, emergency service is called for.
Installation
Putting in a new unit requires some forethought. The plumber has to size the pump to the fixtures it will be serving and factor in the pumping height, discharge distance, and what local code dictates. A professional install is key to making sure the basin is properly sealed and waste is safely conveyed. Metcalf Plumbing is licensed and insured to see if an old pump is worth fixing or if it is time for a new one. While battery backups are more typical for sump pumps, they are a good consideration for any finished basement that relies on an ejector.
Serving Ellicott City
The terrain in Ellicott City and the number of older homes and sloped properties mean some unique plumbing layouts. With the heavy rains we get in Maryland, having reliable equipment in the basement is paramount. We like to serve this part of town with its wooded neighborhoods and historic Main Street; one can even stop by the B&O Ellicott City Station Museum or have a meal at Manor Hill Tavern when the weather is right. For complete plumbing support, drain cleaning and ejector pump work for your home or business, Metcalf Plumbing is here to help.