Most modern homes have a drainage system that works by flushing excess water from bathrooms and laundry rooms, directly into a sewer line. However, if the sewer line is above ground, you will certainly face several challenges such as clogs and blockages in your plumbing system.
Essentially, your plumbing system uses gravity to dispose of wastewater into the sewer pipe. If your drainage system does not have a pump, it becomes virtually impossible to eject water from the basement (septic tank) to the sewage line. To solve this problem, installing an ejector pump becomes more of a necessity rather than a luxury. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to install a sewage pump.
What You Need to Install a Sewage Pump
Installing a sewage pump is not an easy task. However, with the right tools and parts, you can install the pump on your own, without enlisting an expensive plumber. Here is a list of tools and parts you need for the project.
- Tools & Materials
- Measuring tape
- Hole saw
- Digging tools
- Electric sump pump kit
- Jackhammer
- Wrench
- Silicone Sealant
- Gravel
- Concrete
- Trowel
Parts
- Vent
Every sewage pump has an outlet vent that acts as a conduit for sewer gasses, and helps to equalize the pressure inside the drainage system to avoid creating a vacuum.
- Sump Basin
The sump basin is the main tank that holds sewage water before pumping it out to the sewer line.
- 2-Inch Outlet
The pump should have an outlet measuring at least 2-inches in diameter, depending on the size and diameter of your home’s piping system
- Float Switches
Float switches essentially turn on the pump when the sewage water reaches high past the trigger point, ready for disposal
- Check Valve
The check valve keeps water from falling backing into the house after being released from the sump basin
Step-by-Step Guide
STEP 1: Preparation
Preparation is essential for any plumbing system installation. When fixing a sewage pump, you first need to identify the ideal location to mount the basin. The perfect spot should be near the wall to allow for easier discharge of water. It should also be close to an outlet, in order to power the pump easily and conveniently.
STEP 2: Digging the Sump Pit
After identifying an ideal location, dig a hole at least 6 inches deep and 10 inches wide using a shovel or an electric jackhammer. This hole will hold the pump in place.
STEP 3: Placing the Liner
Place the pit liner into the hole until it is level with the floor. Next, fill the empty space with coarse gravel up to 6 inches below the floor and then level it with a wooden float. Afterwards, fill the remaining void with concrete and leave it to dry.
STEP 4: Placing the Pump
Wait for the concrete mixture to dry before installing the pump. Importantly, bind the pump’s electrical cords to the riser before placing it in the pit. Then, carefully lower the pump into the pit liner.
STEP 5: Setting up the Float Switches
The function of the float switches is to activate the pump when the sump pit is filled with water. Setting up these switches is relatively easy. You just need to fix them on top of the pump using heavy-duty glue, according to the instructions on the manual.
STEP 6: Test the Pump
At this point, the pump is ready for testing. You can easily test the pump by filling the sump pit with water. This will trigger the float switches to activate the pump. If the pump fails to function, you might need to set up the float switches again. Also, make sure that the discharge pipe takes the shortest route to the sewer line.
Conclusion
Before attempting to install a sewage pump, it is imperative that you apply for a plumbing permit from the local authorities. Additionally, you have to allow for a thorough safety inspection of the building before you can proceed with the project. Fortunately, these processes are relatively easy and straightforward. The local authorities would be more than willing to approve your request considering the fact that clogging and sewer blockages pose a significant health risk to the community.
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