Every municipal sewage and water treatment system is set up differently. As such, you might be asked by your city to install a grinder pit and pump. Here are a few commonly asked questions about these devices as well as advice for looking after yours. 

4 FAQ About Grinder Pumps

What is a grinder pump? 

A grinder pump grinds up any wastewater that exits your property before it is deposited into your city’s sewage system. They can be installed in basements or yards inside grinder pits. They are always located at the lowest part of your home’s sewage system.

Does everyone need a grinder pump? 

Not necessarily. Grinder pumps are required anytime your home sits lower than the municipal sewer system or your personal septic tank. This is because that placement means that gravity can’t move the sewage where it needs to go. If your home sits at a lower elevation than local sewer lines, you need to have a grinder pit and pump to avoid indoor water supply contamination. 

What triggers grinder pump alarms?

To ensure that grinder pumps work accurately, they are fitted with an alarm. The alarm will go off if too much wastewater moves through the pump or if the grinding mechanism stalls for some reason. If your grinder pit alarm is triggered, immediately halt any water usage inside of your home to prevent backups. 

Do power outages impact grinder pumps? 

Since grinder pumps are electrically powered, they will not work when your power is off. If your power goes off and you rely on a grinder pump, alert your family members to stop flushing toilets, using sinks, and running dishwashers and washing machines immediately. Then, call for repairs as soon as possible.

Whether your grinder pump has started to experience problems or you are building a new home and need a grinder pit, the team at S & S Pumping in Merriam Woods, MO, can help. With a commitment to offering 24-hour emergency assistance and top-of-the-line service, these septic professionals can help you keep your indoor plumbing functional. To learn more, visit them online, or give their office a call at (417) 546-2390.