When it comes to sewage and grinder pumps, there are a few key differences that you need to be aware of. 

What Is a Sewage Pump and How Does It Work?

A sewage pump is typically used to remove wastewater from a home or business. This type of pump is usually installed in a basement or crawl space and can only pump to distances under 750 feet. They are designed to move up to 200 gallons per minute. Sewage pumps are designed to handle solids, so they are ideal for homes with septic tanks.

A sewage pump works by using a float switch to turn the pump on and off. When the float switch is activated, the sewage pump will start. The pump will then move wastewater from the septic tank to the sewer line. Once the sewage pump has turned off, it will return to its original position.

Non Clog Sewage Pump

What Is a Grinder Pump and How Does It Work?

A grinder pump is a high-pressure, low-volume system typically used to grind and move sewage from a home or business to a sewer system. This type of pump is usually installed in a basement or crawl space. Unlike sewage tanks, septic grinder pumps typically should not be paired with septic tank systems since the slurry is so finely ground that it likely won’t separate from the liquid once inside the septic tank.

A grinder pump works by using blades to grind solids into a liquid. The pump will then move the liquid through small pipes to the public sewer system. Once the grinder pump has turned off, it will return to its original position.

Key Differences

The key difference between sewage and grinder pumps is the way they move sewage. Sewage pumps typically use a float switch to activate the pump, while grinder pumps are activated by a pressure sensor. Grinder pumps also have a grinding chamber that pulverizes sewage so it can be moved through small pipes.

How Do I Know Which Pump Is Right for Me?

In order to determine which pump is right for you, first consider the volume of sewage that you’ll need to pump, its destination, and how far it must travel to get there. If you need to pump sewage to a pressured sewer main, a grinder pump is recommended. If you’re pumping to a gravity flow sewer main or septic tank, a sewage pump is your best bet.

If you are not sure which type of pump is right for your needs, it’s best to consult a professional to ensure you choose the right pump for your needs. Our experienced team at Plumbing Solutions LLC can help.