How Much Does An Ejector Pump Cost?
Written By: Alexis Bennett
Edited by: Andrew Dunn
Are you wondering how much an ejector pump costs? If so, you are in the right place.
In this cost guide, we cover:
- What is an ejector pump?
- How much does an ejector pump cost to replace?
- Why do you need a working ejector pump?
- Are there ways to extend the life of your ejector pump?
- What is the difference between a sump pump and an ejector pump?
- And more!
Ejector pumps are essential in homes where some of the fixtures are below the central septic or sewer line level. If your ejector pump breaks, sewage will back up, and it could eventually overflow.
So, we created this guide to help you troubleshoot your ejector pump and plan for replacing it if you need a new one.
What's In This Guide?
How Does A Sewage Ejector Pump Work?
In homes with a sewage ejector pump, there is a basin, called a pump pit, that collects the wastewater that flows into the sealed reservoir. When the basin reaches a certain level, a float switch turns the ejector pump on.
When the switch activates the pump, an impeller at the bottom of the pump shaft begins rotating to help generate the necessary force to push the waste through the drain line without it clogging.
The system then pumps the wastewater up to the sewer line or septic tank. The discharge pipe is fitted with a check valve that prevents the wastewater from coming back down the drain line after the pump shuts off.
Each of the pump parts can fail due to repeated use, normal wear, and tp your system caused by repeated flushing of materials your septic system is not designed to handle.
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What Is The Difference Between A Sewage Ejector Pump And A Sump Pump?
Homeowners use sump pumps to remove water from a sump basin. Sump basins are a sort of pit that is usually in basements.
These pumps are essential in homes that accumulate water. However, they are also helpful if you have a lot of moisture in your basement, which is especially common in areas with a lot of rain or snow.
A sewage ejector pump deals with sewage, while a sump pump is merely moving condensation, rain, or groundwater. A sump pump pumps water directly out of the home, while a sewage ejector pump pumps it into the sewer or septic system.
What Is The Difference Between A Grinder Pump And An Ejector Pump?
A grinder pump is similar to an ejector pump. However, grinder pumps are more heavy-duty, and typically they can handle more solid waste because they incorporate a blade that breaks down solid waste.
Grinder pumps also feed directly into pressurized municipal sewage mains.
If you want more information on the difference between grinder pumps and ejector pumps, check out this video:
Is A Sewage Ejector Pump Right For Your Home?
Before you invest in a sewer pump, you need to know which pump is best for your sewage system configuration. For most residential uses, an ejector pump is a perfect choice. However, there may be situations where an ejector pump is unnecessary or useful.
If you are using an ejector pump, you may wonder if you should upgrade to a grinder pump. The truth is that while ejector parts are not the most reliable home appliances, they tend to last longer than grinders.
They are also less costly to repair and replace. So, if you just need a sewer pump for your basement restroom, an ejector will work just fine.
If you are merely looking to pump condensation and water out of your basement to prevent mold and mildew, a submersible sump pump may be a better option.
Why Do You Need A Sewage Ejector Pump?
Homeowners with basement plumbing need a sewage ejector pump because the pipes and fixtures are below the main sewer line. So, if you plan on installing a basement bathroom or moving your utility room downstairs, you will need an ejector pump.
If you live in a home that already has a sewage ejector pump, it is essential to avoid clogs, and dangerous sewage overflows. If it is not functioning correctly, the overflowing sewage could cause significant damage to your home.
Everything that the raw sewage touches has to be sanitized or thrown away. You have to remove affected sheetrock and flooring, as well.
Then, the entire area has to be treated before you can rebuild the space. Otherwise, it could make you and your family sick.
What Causes Your Pump System To Fail?
Most plumbing system components are susceptible to wear and tear. However, your home’s plumbing is more likely to fail if you flush:
- Condoms
- Toys
- Diapers
- Feminine hygiene products
- ‘Flushable’ wipes
- Cat litter
- Anything else not made to go in the toilet
If you consistently flush anything that puts stress on your pump, it will fail sooner.
How Long Do Sewer Ejector Pumps Last?
The average sewer ejector pump will last between 7 and 10 years. Your pump’s lifespan depends on how well you maintain it, and you should expect to do occasional repairs.
For example, ejector pumps use a float valve that typically goes out before you need a total pump replacement. There is also a check valve that can break, the waste collection reservoir lid and tank can wear, and pipes can break.
How Much Will It Cost You To Install Or Replace Your Sewage Ejector Pump?
The cost of replacing your sewer pump will depend on your sewage system and whether you choose to complete the installation yourself or have a professional do it for you. A traditional ejector pump is usually the right choice if you live in a typical single-family home.
Complete Ejector Pump Installation Cost
Installing a brand new ejector pump is a bit more costly because you have to have pipes and a pump pit installed in your home. Most plumbers charge around $2,500 for a complete pump installation with parts and labor included.
Sewer Ejector Pump Cost
Sewage ejector pumps start as low as $150, but the cost for yours will depend on the horsepower you need. Higher horsepower machines can pump more gallons per hour (GPH).
Even top brands like Liberty Pumps and Zoeller have models that range in price from around $200 to more than $2000. So, it is best to consult with a knowledgeable handyman or plumber before you buy your pump.
Installation for your sewer pump will run you another $650 to $1,800 with the national average for parts and labor being $1,200. If you are handy and the correct plumbing fixtures are already in place, installing the ejector pump yourself is a relatively easy job.
That is unless your waste reservoir is full. In which case, you may want to pay someone else to clear it out and install the new pump. Handling waste if you do not know what you are doing can make you or your family members sick.
Plus, if you are unsure of how to properly do a DIY sump pump installation, it would be worth paying someone to install it correctly to avoid a raw sewage spill.
Cast Iron vs. Plastic Pump Pricing
When you are shopping for pumps, it helps to know which types are in your price range. Typically, plastic pumps are more affordable, but that is because they container cheaper plastic parts.
So, while you may pay less for your plastic pump upfront, it might cost you more in the long run. On the flip side, cast iron pumps are susceptible to corroding, while thermoplastic pumps can become brittle and crack.
Cost Of Running Your Sewer Pump
The energy costs for running your sewer pump will depend on the amount of waste the unit is pumping, how far the waste has to travel, and the horsepower of your unit.
However, operating costs for your ejector pump should not be more than $30 to $60 per month. If you notice that your energy usage is increasing, it could be due to an inefficient sewage pump.
So, after you replace your ejector pump, you may notice that your electricity bills are lower.
Will Your New Ejector Pump Come With A Warranty?
Most new sewer pumps come with a 24-month manufacturer warranty. The warranty is good from the date you have the pump professionally installed or 36 months from the date the company manufactured it.
If your pump breaks during the coverage period, the warranty provider will replace the part, but they will not cover labor costs. So, you will have to install the new pump or have a plumber complete the work at your expense.
The labor cost for replacing your pump can range significantly depending on the job and the personal preferences of the contractor. Some plumbers charge more money if they have to install a pump in a waste-filled tank.
Final Advice On Sewage Ejector Pump Costs
A sewer pump is necessary for many homes with restrooms below the main floor. However, you should not have to break into your savings every time you need to fix it.
A home warranty that covers your septic system from a top provider like Select Home Warranty can really help when your sewage ejector pump breaks down. However, most companies have a 30 day waiting period before you can use your coverage.
So, if you think it is about time to replace your ejector pump, sign up today.
