There are three common type pump systems that are used in homes. Some are for convenience, like hot water recirculation pumps. Others, such as sewage ejectors and sump pumps serve a critical function that when they fail can cause a tremendous problem and even damage to your home.
Recirculation Pumps
These pumps circulate hot water in the house as a convenient way to produce hot water quickly at areas of the house great distances from the water heater. If there is a sudden increase in the amount of time for hot water to appear at a particular area of the house, this may be caused by a failed recirculation pump.
Sewage Ejectors
A house will have a sewage ejector when there are plumbing fixtures below the sewer main and therefore cannot drain by gravity. Sewage ejectors are located in a large container called a sump. Fixtures will drain into the sump and the sewage ejector will then pump the waste up to a drain that will then use gravity to carry the waste out of the house. These pumps will typically have a grinder function that is designed to grind up human waste and toilet paper. A common source of failure is feminine hygiene products and “flushable” wipes – neither should ever be flushed into a system that has a pump. These systems do have floats that can become fouled with normal use with toilet paper, this can usually be easily corrected. These pumps are located in an extremely harsh environment and do fail regularly due to corrosion.
Sump Pumps
Sump pumps are typically use to remove ground are surface water that may accumulate in a crawlspace or basement. They are usually located at the low spot in the area of concern inside a small sump. Since this water is “clean” it is usually pumped into the piping that takes away the rain water.
If you have any concerns about your pump system, call Kennedy Plumbing. Our licensed Journeyman Plumbers can diagnose, repair or replace you pump.
