What is a Grinder Pump System? 

A household-pump system, also known as a grinder-pump system, is a mini sewage pumping station with one pump for individual houses. Grinder pumps are used where gravity sewer lines cannot be used. The single pump sits inside an underground tank on your property and pumps wastewater produced in your home into the sewer line. The system includes a low-pressure sewer line and a control panel.   

Who is responsible for system maintenance? 

In most cases, property owners are responsible for ownership, operation, maintenance, repair and replacement of the grinder system up to the right of way line or property line. The typical life span of a pump ranges from 5 to 15 years before replacement is needed. Call your plumber or certified grinder pump technician for repairs and replacements. 

*For some customers in Limerick Township, Aqua Pennsylvania is responsible for ownership, operation, maintenance, repair and replacement of the grinder pump system.
 

How do I protect my grinder pump system?

A properly maintained pump system should be able to handle typical wastewater from your kitchen, bathrooms or laundry. Many chemicals and materials can cause operating problems and safety hazards. Check labels on chemicals prior to their disposal.

Never put any of the following materials into sinks, garbage disposals, toilets or drains:

• Pharmaceutical products
• Cooking fat (lard, oil, grease)
• Wipes, even those that say “flushable”
• Feminine hygiene products
• Rubber or latex items
• Hair clippings or dental floss
• Kitty litter or aquarium gravel
• Glass, metal, wood, seafood shells
• Papers, socks, or cloth of any kind
• Plastic objects (toys, eating utensils, etc.)
• Degreasing solvents
• Any explosive or flammable material
• Lubricating oil grease

These items can damage the pump system and its controls and can cause blockages or backups.

How do I know if my grinder pump is working or not working?

If your grinder pump is working properly, it will turn on as needed and pump down the tank. Its noise level is similar to that of a clothes washing machine. The pump will turn off after a few minutes. If your pump stops working, the alarm panel’s red light will be lit (or blink) and an alarm will sound.

During power outages, limit water usage to avoid backups. The grinder pump won't function without electrical service. 

What do I do if the alarm sounds?

Many grinder pump systems have a button to silence the alarm, press that button (alarm lamp will remain on). Wait for 1-hour then look to see if the alarm light is still lit. 

• If the lamp is not lit, no further action is needed.
• If the lamp is still lit, minimize water usage and call a certified technician to service the unit. 

Do not attempt to repair a grinder unit yourself. Mechanical and electrical repairs can be dangerous and should only be performed by a qualified technician. 

What happens during a power outage?

Limit water use to avoid backups, as the pump won’t function until power is restored. The grinder pump won’t function without electrical service.

If I’m going on vacation, how do I protect my pump?

If you plan to be away from your home for more than 7-days, we suggest the following steps be taken to ensure the proper operation of the system:

• First, run fresh water from an inside tap long enough for the pump system to turn on (listen to hear the pump start).
• After the pump turns on, turn the water off. The pump will run until the tank is empty and will shut off.

This process will clean the pump and leave it filled with a minimum amount of clean water. Always leave the electrical power on.

By following proper maintenance guidelines, you can help maintain your grinder pump, protect your pipes and safeguard your community.