A New Jersey Home inspector should understand why sewage pumps are necessary in some instances and some of the issues that can develop with these waste pumps. Sometimes agents and buyers will confuse a sump pump with a sewage pump. They are somewhat similar in appearance but have two very different purposes.
A sewage pump is a type of pump that is designed to handle wastewater and sewage from a building or other facility. It is typically used to pump sewage from a lower elevation to a higher elevation so that it can be discharged into a septic tank or a sewage treatment plant. Sewage pumps are typically larger and more powerful than sump pumps and are capable of handling larger volumes of wastewater.
On the other hand, a sump pump is a type of pump that is used to remove water that has accumulated in a sump pit, which is a low-lying area in the floor of a basement or crawl space. Sump pumps are typically used to prevent basement flooding by pumping water out of the sump pit and away from the building. Sump pumps are generally smaller and less powerful than sewage pumps and are designed to handle relatively small volumes of water.
The main difference between a sewage pump and a sump pump is the type of liquid they are designed to handle and the purpose they serve. Sewage pumps are used to handle wastewater and sewage, while sump pumps are used to remove excess water from a sump pit to prevent basement flooding.
How do sewage ejector pumps work?
Home inspectors in NJ should be able to identify sewage pumps. Sewage ejector pumps are typically installed in a pit or basin, known as a sewage basin, and are activated by a float switch. When the wastewater in the pit reaches a certain level, the float switch activates the pump, which begins to push the wastewater out of the pit and into the main sewer line.
Sewage ejector pumps are usually powered by electricity and have a motor that drives an impeller, which is a rotating device that pushes the water through the pump and out of the pit. The impeller is typically made of a tough, wear-resistant material, such as stainless steel or plastic, to withstand the abrasive nature of the wastewater.
Why are sewage ejector pumps needed?
Sewage ejector pumps are necessary in situations where the main sewer line is not at the same elevation as the plumbing fixtures in a home or building. For example, if a bathroom or kitchen is located in a basement or below-ground level, the sewage system may not be able to gravity-feed the wastewater to the main sewer line. In these cases, a sewage ejector pump is needed to lift the wastewater to the required elevation and ensure that it is properly disposed of.
Sewage ejector pumps are also used in septic systems, which are self-contained waste management systems that are used in areas where a municipal sewage system is not available. Septic systems typically consist of a septic tank, which stores the wastewater, and a distribution field, which disperses the wastewater into the ground. In some cases, a sewage ejector pump is used to lift the wastewater from the septic tank to the distribution field.
What is the life expectancy of a sewage ejector pump?
New Jersey home inspectors should be able to educate their home inspection clients about the typical life expectancy of a sewage pump. The life expectancy of a sewage ejector pump depends on a number of factors, including the quality of the pump, the amount of use it receives, and the nature of the wastewater being pumped. In general, sewage ejector pumps have a life expectancy of around 7 to 15 years. However, with proper maintenance and care, it is possible for a sewage ejector pump to last longer.
Problems that can develop with sewage ejector pumps
Like any mechanical device, sewage ejector pumps can develop problems over time. Some common issues that can arise with sewage ejector pumps include they can become clogged with debris, such as rags, paper and grease. An obstructed pump will not function properly. The abrasive nature of the wastewater that is being pumped can cause wear and tear on the pump and its components, leading to breakdowns and possible flooding if the pump stops operating. Sewage pumps are powered by electricity and problems with the electrical system such as a malfunctioning float switch or faulty connections can cause the pump to fail. A failing pump can cause unsanitary conditions and can create a lot of damage.
Proper maintenance and care can help to prevent or minimize these potential problems and extend the life of a sewage ejector pump. It is important to follow the manufacturers recommendations for maintenance and to have the pump inspected regularly by a professional plumber.
NJ Home inspectors should test the sewage pumps and listen for proper operation and inspect for leaks. Often when a pump is failing a foul sewer odor is present in the room with the sewage pump. There is limited visibility when it comes to inspecting these pumps because they are sealed in their pit. The pump will not be visible to the home inspector.
In conclusion home inspectors in NJ should be familiar with the operation, testing and possible problems associated with sewage ejector pumps and should be able to educate their clients regarding these important wastewater pumps.