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Ejector Pump Vs Sump Pump

As a homeowner, you may wonder if you actually need a sump pump or if your existing sewage pump can also be used as a sump pump. The answers may surprise you. Yes, you most likely need a sump pump for your home, and no, you can’t necessarily use your sewage pump to also function as a sump pump. While they’re both used as indoor sewage systems, they each have different purposes.

Keep reading to learn about their differences and functions, the importance of having both, and how to know when you need professional sewage or sump pump services.

Sewage Pump vs. Sump Pump: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to sewage and sump pumps, you may think they’re one and the same. It can often be difficult to know the difference between the two, because many people assume they’re the same thing. They both work as indoor septic systems, have large canisters or holding tanks, and are typically stored in the basement. However, they are both unique in regard to what they do and how they function.

For starters, a sewage pump’s basic function is to get rid of solid and water waste. It takes waste from your bathroom and sends it to your property’s septic tank. Sewage pumps are able to get rid of more than just water waste because of its ability to take advantage of gravity. This allows sewage pumps to force solid waste through the plumbing system. Sewage pumps also don’t require a lot of maintenance to function properly. Even if you do encounter issues with your sewage pump, you can have a professional plumber easily fix the problem.

On the other hand, a sump pump’s main function is to collect unwanted and excessive water that makes its way to your basement. Many people with basements face this issue, and a sump pump is the way tool to prevent water from collecting in basements. They also are powered by the electricity in your home, as well as an external battery pack for when the power goes out. Unlike sewage pumps, sump pumps require regular maintenance to ensure it continues to function properly.

Should I Have a Sewage Pump and a Sump Pump?

If you have one or the other, you may wonder if it’s necessary to have both. Whether you need a sewage pump, sump pump, or both will depend on a few factors. You’ll most likely need a sewage pump if part of your house sits at level with or below your sewer lines. If you’ve added a bathroom to your basement, then you’ll also most likely need a sewage pump. If you’re unsure of where your sewer lines are placed, we’ll be happy to help you figure that out and determine if a sewage pump is the right choice for you.

If you have a basement or crawl space or you live in an area prone to flooding, it would be a wise investment to install a sump pump. Since a sump pump collects unwanted and excessive water from your basement or crawl space area, installing one now can save you time, money, and stress down the road if you ever experience flooding.

If both of these factors apply to your home, then you may need both a sewage pump and a sump pump for your home. The experts at Three Way Plumbing can handle all your installation needs.

Proper Usage of Sewage and Sump Pumps

Whether you choose to install one or the other, or both, it’s important to understand the proper usage of each one. Sump pumps do not have the ability to get rid of solid waste. If you are adding a bathroom to your basement or your home sits below the sewer line, you’ll need to use a sewage ejector pump along with your sump pump.

Sump pumps specifically rid your basement or crawl space of excess water that can come from leaks, floods, or heavy rainfall. It can also be powered by a battery pack so you can keep it running, even if the power goes out during a storm. A sewer pump needs electricity to run and isn’t able to remove excess water from your basement or crawl space.

To learn more about how to properly use a sewage and sump pump, you can contact Three Way Plumbing today.

Common Signs You May Need Sewage or Sump Pump Repair

If your sewage or sump pump isn’t working properly, it can lead to extensive problems if not addressed quickly. It’s not always easy to spot when your sewage or sump pump needs repairs. That’s why we’ve gathered a few common signs to be on the lookout for.

Some common signs that your sewage pump needs repairs are:

• Improper drainage
• Failure to run
• Strange noises
• Bad odors
• No water in the sump pit

Some common signs that your sump pump needs repairs are:

• Clogged pump and switches
• No water in the sump pit
• Loud or strange noises
• Running frequently
• Lost power

If you’re experiencing any of these signs with your sewage or sump pump, you can call us now at (704)-795-9349 to schedule a repair.

Contact Three Way Plumbing for Sump Pump Services Today

Whether you’re looking to install a sewage or sump pump for your home or need maintenance and repairs, you can rely on Three Way Plumbing to provide you with the services you need. Schedule a service online today.