A grinder pump works like a garbage disposal – it grinds up wastewater from a home (i.e. toilet, shower, washing machine) and pumps it into the public sewer system. A grinder pump is placed in a tank that is buried in a convenient outdoor location on your property. The tank provides wastewater holding storage capacity.
Likewise, can a grinder pump handle tampons?
A sewage grinder pump can easily handle 2 inch solids, and will also be able to handle difficult artificial solids, like feminine hygiene products (pads, tampons, etc), rags, towels, diapers, diaper wipes, napkins, underwear, and a range of other things that shouldn’t be flushed down toilets but often are.
Subsequently, can you use a grinder pump with a septic system?
Septic grinder pumps should not be paired with septic tank systems because the slurry is so finely ground that it won’t separate from the liquid once inside the septic tank. This means that it won’t get sent on to the secondary system, which can destroy your underground leach field.
Does a grinder pump smell?
Normally functioning grinder pumps do make some sounds when they turn on, but it should not be disruptive. They also emit minimal, if any, odor. You should notice only a slight increase to your electric bill since the pump should only be running a few times a day.
How do you maintain a grinder pump?
During your septic grinder pump maintenance routine, you should do the following:
- Inspect oil level and check for contamination in septic grinder pump motor chamber.
- Inspect pump impeller and body for any clogs or clotting (buildup).
- Inspect pump motor and bearings.
How far can a grinder pump pump sewage?
Sewage Grinder pumps normally have a 1-1/4” discharge and range from 2 HP and up. They will pump low volumes of sewage (30 Gallons Per Minute or less), but can push it over longer distances (thousands of feet) and can handle head pressures of up to 130 feet.
How long does a septic grinder pump last?
You can expect a sewage grinder pump to last 6 to 16 years, with an average of 9 years. A grinder pump is installed along the drain line to a municipal sewer system or private septic tank when the pipe slope is not enough to flow by gravity.
How often does a grinder pump run?
The pump is programmed to operate in cycles, rather than continuously. Cycles are determined by the amount of water used. Usually after 20 gallons have entered the tank, your grinder pump will turn on. On a typical day, this cycle will repeat itself 10 to 20 times.
Is a grinder pump the same as a septic system?
Grinder pumps are always sewage pumps, which is one of the reasons they are confused. Grinder pumps include a cutting mechanism that can chop the harder solids into smaller pieces, creating a slurry that can more easily pass through pipes.
Why would you need a grinder pump?
A grinder pump is designed to aid homes that are located lower than the nearest municipal sewer line. The standard home is built higher than the sewer line so that gravity will draw wastewater from the sewage system. Not all homes are in this position, and for those homes, it’s necessary to have a grinder pump.