Sewage Ejector Pump Installation and Repair Service
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Sewage ejector pump services install the submersible pump systems that lift wastewater from below-grade toilets, showers, sinks, and floor drains to the main sewer line, repair failed pumps before sewage backs up into the basement, and replace worn check valves and discharge piping that cause loss of prime. Bonded Plumbworks’ licensed plumbers size the sealed basin and pump capacity to the fixture load, then test the system under full discharge before completing installation.
A sewage ejector pump is a submersible pump installed in a sealed basin below the floor that collects wastewater (including solids) from below-grade plumbing fixtures and pumps it up to the building’s main drain line. Ejector pumps are rated for solids handling (minimum 2-inch solids passage) and are required by the International Plumbing Code (IPC Section 712) for any fixture installed below the building’s sewer outlet. — Bonded Plumbworks
What Is a Sewage Ejector Pump
A sewage ejector system consists of a sealed basin (typically 18 to 30 inches in diameter and 24 to 36 inches deep), a submersible pump with a 2-inch minimum discharge, a float switch that activates the pump when wastewater reaches a preset level, a check valve on the discharge pipe that prevents backflow, and a sealed, gasketed lid that contains odors and meets code requirements for gas-tight construction.
The pump activates automatically when wastewater fills the basin to the float switch trigger level, pumps the contents up through the discharge pipe to the main drain line, and shuts off when the basin is emptied. The check valve prevents the water in the vertical discharge pipe from draining back into the basin after the pump cycles off.
The IPC requires sewage ejector basins to be sealed with a gas-tight cover and vented through a dedicated vent pipe. The vent prevents pressure buildup in the sealed basin during pump operation and allows air to enter when the basin drains, preventing vacuum lock. Bonded Plumbworks installs all ejector systems with code-compliant sealed covers and dedicated vent piping. — Bonded Plumbworks, serving since 2006
When to Schedule Sewage Ejector Pump Service
Installation:
- Adding a bathroom, laundry, or wet bar in a below-grade or below-sewer-level space
- Building a basement bathroom with toilet, sink, and shower
- Installing a floor drain in a below-grade utility room
Repair or Replacement:
- The pump runs but does not discharge water (impeller failure or check valve stuck closed)
- The pump does not turn on when the basin fills (float switch or electrical failure)
- Sewage odor from the ejector basin (failed gasket or cracked cover)
- The pump cycles on and off rapidly (short cycling — check valve failure)
- Water backs up from below-grade fixtures despite a functioning main sewer line
- The pump is noisy, vibrating excessively, or tripping the circuit breaker
How It Works
Installation:
Step 1: We cut the concrete floor at the basin location and excavate to the required depth. The basin is set level and the drain piping from each fixture is connected to the basin at the correct invert elevation.
Step 2: We install the submersible ejector pump with the float switch set at the correct activation level, connect the 2-inch discharge pipe with a check valve and full-port shutoff valve, and route the vent pipe to the exterior or existing vent stack.
Step 3: We seal the basin with a gas-tight cover, restore the concrete floor around the basin, and connect the pump to a dedicated electrical circuit (GFCI-protected per code).
Step 4: We test the system by running all connected fixtures simultaneously, verifying the pump activates, discharges properly, and the check valve prevents backflow.
Repair:
Step 1: We diagnose the failure — pump motor, float switch, check valve, or electrical — by testing each component individually.
Step 2: We replace the failed component or, if the pump has reached end of life (typically 7 to 10 years), replace the entire pump unit.
Step 3: We test the repaired system under full load and verify all safety components (float switch, check valve, GFCI protection) are functioning.
Sewage ejector pumps have a typical service life of 7 to 10 years depending on usage volume and maintenance. The most common failure point is the float switch, which can become fouled by grease or debris. Annual inspection of the float switch and basin condition extends pump life and prevents unexpected failures. — Bonded Plumbworks
Benefits vs. Alternatives
| System Type | Handles Solids | Full Bathroom Capable | Noise Level | Reliability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sewage Ejector (below-floor basin) | Yes (2-inch) | Yes | Low (subfloor) | High |
| Macerating Toilet System | Yes (macerated) | Limited | Moderate | Moderate |
| Grinder Pump | Yes (ground) | Yes | Moderate | High |
| Sump Pump (not for sewage) | No | No | Low | High |
A sewage ejector pump in a sealed below-floor basin is the code-compliant, reliable solution for below-grade bathrooms. Macerating systems are an alternative but have more limited capacity and higher maintenance requirements.
Pricing
- Ejector pump installation (complete system): $2,500 - $4,500
- Ejector pump replacement (existing basin): $800 - $1,500
- Float switch replacement: $150 - $350
- Check valve replacement: $200 - $400
- Annual ejector pump inspection: $100 - $200
Pricing for new installations includes the basin, pump, discharge piping, check valve, shutoff valve, vent piping, and concrete work. Bonded Plumbworks provides a written estimate after evaluating your specific installation.
Our Qualifications
Bonded Plumbworks plumbers are state-licensed and experienced in sewage ejector system installation and repair per IPC Section 712. Since 2006, we have installed and serviced ejector systems using commercial-grade pumps from Liberty Pumps, Zoeller, and Little Giant.
Bonded Plumbworks sizes ejector pumps per IPC Table 712.3.2, which specifies minimum pump capacity based on the total drainage fixture units connected to the basin. We select pumps with rated capacity exceeding the calculated demand by a minimum 25% safety margin. — Bonded Plumbworks, established 2006
FAQ
How much does sewage ejector pump cost? Sewage Ejector Pump typically costs $100 to $4,500 for most residential jobs. The final price depends on the scope of work, materials required, and site conditions. Bonded Plumbworks provides a written estimate before starting any sewage ejector pump work, so you know the exact cost upfront. Call (855) 557-9600 for a same-day quote.
What is the difference between a sewage ejector and a sump pump? A sump pump handles clean groundwater only. A sewage ejector pump is designed to handle solid waste and is installed in a sealed, vented basin. Never connect a toilet or sewage drain to a sump pump.
Can I replace the ejector pump myself? While the pump itself is replaceable, the installation must comply with IPC Section 712 requirements for basin sealing, venting, and electrical connections. Improper installation can result in sewer gas leaks, electrical hazards, and code violations.
How loud is a sewage ejector pump? Modern submersible ejector pumps installed in below-floor basins are relatively quiet — comparable to a dishwasher. The concrete floor and sealed basin dampen the sound. Above-floor systems are noticeably louder.
Back to Drain Sewer Services
Schedule Sewage Ejector Pump Service
Keep your below-grade plumbing working reliably. Call Bonded Plumbworks at (855) 557-9600 to schedule sewage ejector pump installation, repair, or inspection. Every sewage ejector pump service includes a 90-day guarantee on sewage ejector pump work, covering parts and labor.