Septic Tank Sump Pump: Introduction
A septic tank sump pump is a vital part of any septic system. Without it, the tank will fill up with sludge, sewage waste and eventually overflow. The primary function of this device is to remove septic tank’s discharge or wastewater from the tank to the drain field. A sump pump can not break down solids or scum.
Do all septic tanks have a pump?
Most septic tanks don`t have a pump. There is no need for a septic pump if the effluent can flow at a minimum rate of two feet per second pump utilizing natural gravity flow.
On the other-hand septic pumps are necessary if the drain field is uphill or higher than the septic tank. This is because gravity is unable to pull the effluent into the drain field from the tank.
Septic tank pump not working
There are many reasons why septic pumps fail. The most common reason is electrical issues:
- Replace any damaged fuses and reset any tripped circuit breaker. A fuse is a safety device that protects the circuits from too much current by blowing out when its rated current is exceeded. A circuit breaker is a safety device that can interrupt the circuit in case of an overload or short circuit.
- Use a multimeter to test if sufficient voltage is being delivered to the pump. A multimeter is a device that can measure voltage, current, and resistance. It is an essential tool for diagnosing electrical problems.
Most septic motor pumps have a plus or minus 10% change in voltage tolerance. Low voltage will cause the septic pump to stall, overheat and shut off completely. On the other-hand, High voltage leads to magnetic saturation of the septic pump motor, thus shortening its lifespan.
Another major reason why your septic tank sump pump is not working might be a malfunctioning motor:
- Frozen Bearings. The first step is to Check whether there is unimpeded impeller and shaft rotation. Clean the impeller and Lubricate the lower bearings. You have to replace the bearings If the motors impeller and shaft rotation continues to be impeded after lubrication.
- Reposition the control weights or floats to enable a slight increase in the water level to easily activate the control switch. If the float switch is defective, simply replace it with a new one.
- If any of the above fails to fix the motor, then you have to get it replaced or repaired by a reputable service center.
How do septic tank filters work?
Septic filters are one of the most important things in a septic system. They are responsible for removing all of the solids from the wastewater before it enters the drainfield.
What causes septic filter clogs?
Septic filter clogs are caused by a variety of things and some of the most common causes include:
- The buildup or accumulation of lint from washing machines clogs septic filters. Lint is a common problem in the septic wastewater system because it does not break down and will eventually form a large mass that will block the septic filter.
- Bleach is one of the most versatile household products. It can be used to clean surfaces, disinfect fruits and vegetables and even remove stains. But did you know that bleach can also kill septic bacteria? Antibacterial Household Products are often used in the household to kill bacteria and prevent the spread of germs. However, these products also harm the septic bacteria. The absence of an adequate septic bacterial population results in an inefficient solids decomposition. This in turn leads to solids buildup and clogging of the septic filter.
- Do not flush anything down the toilet that is not human waste or toilet paper. This includes tampons, cigarette butts, condoms, flushable wipes, cotton balls and pads, facial tissue or paper towels. These items do not degrade and will eventually accumulate and cause major clogs in your plumbing system.
- Fats, Grease and cooking oil products can also clog the septic filter. If you are cooking with fats or oils, make sure that you dispose of them in an appropriate way so that they do not get into your sink or drainpipe.
How do I know if my septic filter is clogged?
A septic filter is an essential part of a septic system, as it removes solid materials from the sewage waste. Is your septic filter clogged? What are signs your septic is full and needs to be emptied? You can find out by checking the following:
- You notice a foul odor coming from your septic system or drain field.
- There is standing water in your drain field.
- It takes longer than usual for water to drain away after you flush the toilet or run water in another sink, bathtub, or shower fixture.
- Backup of wastewater in the house.
- Septic Alarm going off.
How often should a septic filter be cleaned?
The frequency of the cleaning depends on how many people live in the home. If you have more people, then you need to clean your septic filter more often. For an average household, It is recommended to clean the filter once every year. This will help keep the septic tank running smoothly.
How to clean a septic tank filter?
The septic tank filter is an important part of the septic system. It prevents solid waste from entering the drain field. If the filter is clogged, it can cause a backup of wastewater and sewage in your home. The best way to clean a septic tank filter is by spraying it with water using a garden hose. Make sure you remove all the dirt and you able to see through the filter.
How can I prolong the life of my septic tank pump system?
To extend the lifespan of your septic tank pump system, practice water conservation by fixing any leaks and using water-efficient appliances. Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items like wet wipes, diapers, and sanitary products, as they can clog the system. Additionally, refrain from pouring grease, oil, and harsh chemicals down the drain, as these can disrupt the natural bacteria in the septic tank.
Septic Tank Sump Pump: Final Thoughts
The sump pump is an important part of your septic’s drainage system because it pumps effluent from the septic tank to the drain field. Its important to buy or repair your septic tank sump pump from a reputable company. Some people might be tempted to buy sump pumps from a less-than-reputable business because they don’t want to spend extra money on a pump that is more expensive elsewhere. However, this can lead to disastrous results and it’s not worth the risk. Reputable businesses offer warranties and have better customer service because they have an established reputation that they need to protect.
