Sewage Pump

A sewage pump is a submersible pump designed to move raw sewage (water, solids, and waste) from a collection pit to a higher elevation or greater distance where gravity drainage to the municipal sewer is possible. Sewage pumps are the backbone of below-grade plumbing — any bathroom, laundry room, or utility area below the level of the main sewer connection requires a sewage pump system to function.

Sewage pump vs. effluent pump vs. sump pump

• Sewage pump: handles raw, unscreened sewage including solids up to 2 inches in diameter — designed for toilet waste and heavy debris. Must meet ANSI standards for 2" solids passage.
• Effluent pump: handles partially treated (settled) sewage in septic systems — lighter-duty than a sewage pump, not designed for raw toilet waste or large solids.
• Sump pump: handles groundwater only — never sewage. Not rated for waste solids and will fail quickly if sewage is introduced.

System components

A sewage pump system consists of: a fiberglass or polyethylene basin (18–30" diameter, 24–36" deep) buried in the floor; the sewage pump sitting inside the basin; a float switch to activate the pump at a set water level; a check valve on the discharge to prevent backflow; and a vent for the basin (required by code to control sewer gas).

Maintenance

• Test annually by pouring water into the basin to activate the pump
• Inspect the check valve — a failed check valve causes the pump to run continuously, burning out the motor
• Never flush wipes, feminine products, or food waste into a system served by a sewage pump — these clog the pump impeller
• Pump replacement: $200–$600 for residential grade; $600–$1,500 for commercial grade