If you are a homeowner, you may have heard of both ejector pumps and sump pumps. These two types of pumps play important roles in keeping your home’s plumbing system functioning properly and preventing basement flooding. Since ejector and sump pumps have similar features, it can be easy to confuse them. However, they have distinct differences in their functions and applications. In this post, we will explain the main differences between ejector and sump pumps and outline why both are needed to maintain a healthy home.
Ejector Pumps vs Sump Pumps: How They Work
Ejector and sump pumps both work to remove water from an area, but they do so in different ways. These pumps function by utilizing pressure to move water through pipes and out of your home. The main difference lies in their purpose and where they are installed.
- Ejector Pump: Ejector pumps are usually installed in a pit below the main sewer line and connected to all of your home’s wastewater pipes. Here is a breakdown of the different steps an ejector pump takes to remove wastewater:
- Waste Collection: Wastewater from lower-level fixtures such as basement toilets, sinks, or laundry drains into the ejector pit. The pit is sealed to prevent odors from escaping, and it collects both liquid and solid waste.
- Activation: When the waste in the pit reaches a certain level, a float switch or pressure sensor triggers the ejector pump to turn on.
- Pumping: The ejector pump grinds and moves the waste up through a discharge pipe, which connects to the home’s main sewer line or septic system.
- Shutoff: After the waste level in the pit lowers, the float switch turns the pump off, and it remains inactive until the pit fills up again.
- Sump Pump: A sump pump is installed in a pit or basin at the lowest point of your basement or crawl space. Here’s how a sump pump works:
- Water Collection: Groundwater or rainwater collects in the sump pit, either through perimeter drains around your home or via natural migration through the soil.
- Activation: Once the water in the sump pit rises to a certain level, a float switch activates the sump pump.
- Pumping: The pump moves the water out of the pit and into a discharge pipe. This pipe directs the water away from your home’s foundation to a safe drainage area, such as a storm drain or dry well.
- Shutoff: When the water level falls below the activation point, the float switch shuts the pump off until more water accumulates.
Now that you understand more about how waste and sump pumps work, let’s dive into their other differences.
Differences Between Ejector Pumps and Sump Pumps
The main difference between ejector pumps and sump pumps is their function. Sump pumps are designed to remove excess water that has accumulated in the basement or crawl space, while ejector pumps handle wastewater and sewage from the home’s plumbing system.
Another notable difference is the type of discharge used. Sump pumps typically use a smaller discharge pipe and direct water away from your home’s foundation. On the other hand, ejector pumps use larger discharge pipes to carry sewage to the sewer line or septic tank. This larger discharge is necessary to handle the solid waste and debris from the home’s plumbing system.
With these systems in place, you can rest assured that your home is protected from excess water and sewage backups.
Installation Locations
Both types of pumps are installed in different locations within a home.
- Ejector Pumps: These are installed in a pit, typically sealed with a cover, in the basement where waste from below-grade fixtures like toilets and laundry machines collects. The sealed pit prevents the odor from escaping. Ejector pumps are also commonly installed in crawl spaces.
- Sump Pumps: Sump pumps are also installed in the basement but in an open pit or basin where excess groundwater collects. When the water level rises to a certain point, the sump pump activates and moves the water away from the house. Sump pumps can also be installed outside the home in a specially dug pit called a dry well. This is often the case in areas with high water tables, as it prevents excess water from seeping into the basement.
It is important to install these pumps in the correct locations so they can effectively perform and protect your home.
Maintenance of Ejector and Sump Pumps
Like any other mechanical system, ejector and sump pumps require regular maintenance. Here are some general maintenance and testing tips for these systems:
- Ejector Pump Maintenance: Ejector pumps should be inspected every few months. Clear any debris around the pump and test it by flushing basement toilets or running laundry to make sure it activates. Ejector pump covers should be tightly sealed to avoid leaks and smells.
- Sump Pump Maintenance: For sump pumps, check the pit for debris and clear the drain lines regularly. It’s also important to test the pump by pouring water into the pit to see if it turns on and empties the water. Since sump pumps are often used during heavy storms, a battery backup is recommended to ensure the pump works during power outages.
Additionally, any issues with the plumbing system that could lead to excess water in the basement should be addressed. This may include fixing leaky water heaters, sealing cracks in the foundation, clearing gutters, and directing water away from the house.
Proper maintenance and upkeep of ejector and sump pumps can save homeowners from costly repairs and water damage. It’s important to follow manufacturer instructions for maintenance and replace any worn or damaged parts as quickly as possible. If you are unsure about how to maintain your ejector or sump pump properly, consult a professional plumber for assistance.
Let Nearby Plumbing Install an Ejector Pump or Sump Pump in Your Home
Most homeowners do not pay much attention to their ejector and sump pumps until a problem arises. After all, they are not the most exciting household fixtures and won’t get any compliments from your guests. However, these pumps can make all the difference in keeping your home dry and safe. At Nearby Plumbing, we understand the importance of having a well-functioning ejector and sump pump in your home. That’s why our team of experienced professionals is trained to install, repair, and maintain both types of pumps efficiently and effectively. With our help, you can have peace of mind knowing that your home is protected from potential problems. Contact us today to learn more.
