What is an ejector pump?

An ejector pump is a pump that is used to remove waste products from your plumbing system when the sewer is located too high for the system to flow by gravity. For example, an ejector pump may be installed when a homeowner would like to add a bathroom to their basement.

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How does an ejector pump work?

• Ejector pumps operate similar to sump pumps in that they are installed in a pit where the sewage is collected. These pits are typically located in the basement. 

How much is an ejector pump?

• An ejector pump costs considerably more than a sump pump since it is designed to pump solids as well as water.
• There are many different models depending on your application.
• Prices will range from a few hundred dollars to several hundred.
• Installation should only be performed by qualified personnel since it deals with raw sewage. 

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How long does an ejector pump last?

• As with sump pumps this depends on several factors including the installation environment and the usage but on average, ejector pumps will need to be replaced about every 10 years.

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Why is my ejector pump running?

• This is often the result of a faulty or stuck float.
• Other issues could be a bad check valve, a clogged discharge pipe or a blocked pump inlet.

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Is there a difference between a sump pump and ejector pump?

• Yes. An ejector pump pumps sewer or waste water away from a building. Sump pumps are used to pumps groundwater away from a building.
• Ejector pumps are generally installed when a basement bathroom is being added whereas a sump pump may be needed in any basement.

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What does an ejector pump look like?

• An ejector pump looks similar to a standard sump pump except it is slightly larger. However, it will have a 2” or larger discharge pipe because it is designed to pump solids up to 2” in diameter.

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What happens if an ejector pump fails?

• You will be unable to use any fixtures that drain to the pump.
• Often there is an alarm that will notify you that the water level is high in the ejector pit prior to you noticing any issue. If your pump doesn't have an alarm you will notice water backing up into your attached plumbing fixtures.

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Why does my ejector pump smell?

• The lids for ejector pits need to be sealed tightly to prevent sewer gases from escaping into the living space. Check all the penetrations to make sure they are sealed tightly. Also, check to make sure the lid itself is sealed tightly where it bolts to the basin or pit.

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