Frequently Asked Questions

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Does my pump need service?

Alarm - The most common type of alarm is the high level alarm. This indicates that the level of the liquid in the tank is higher than the normal operating range. This usually happens because the pump is unable to move the liquid out of the tank. This is almost always a sign that you need pump service.

Overflowing - Overflowing can happen in a number of different ways. For outside pumps, you might see the tank overflowing into your yard. For inside pumps, you might see liquid around your pump tank. Depending on your plumbing configuration, toilets may stop flushing and liquid may overflow from plumbing fixtures on the first floor. Overflowing is a clear sign that your system needs service.

Loud when running - Pumps running louder than usual generally have bearing failure in their electric motor, or objects jammed in the pump. Both of these conditions are a sign that your pump requires immediate attention.

Running for too long - A pump that is running for a long time likely has worn parts in the pumping mechanism. Servicing a pump with extended run times before it fails generally results in significantly reduced repair costs and prevents overflow-related cleanup expenses.

Before my service call - what should I do?

Before your service call, it is good to collect some information about your station.

  • Is your pump located outside or inside?
  • Do you have more than one pump in your station?
  • Inside pump - Is your pump in a cylindrical or rectangular tank?
  • Roughly how old is your pump?

If there is any documentation associated with your pump, make and model information are always helpful.

In the interest of safety and cleanliness, please move any objects away from the pump area and ensure there is an unobstructed path to the pump.

During my service call - what should I expect?

When the technician arrives, they will perform a visual inspection of your system and perform a variety of electrical tests.

If it is determined that your pump is malfunctioning, your pump will be removed from the tank. Further visual, mechanical, and electrical tests will be performed to determine the correct course of action.

On site repair- Many pumps can be repaired. Most repairs are performed on site.

In shop repair- In the unlikely event a pump cannot be repaired on site, the pump may be returned to the shop. A temporary pump may be provided to resume pump service while the repair is taking place.

Replacement- Pumps that are severely damaged or obsolete may need to be replaced.

What are the different types of pumps?

Grinder pump - Grinder pumps, a.k.a. ejector pumps, are more powerful pumps that serve the same function as a gravity sewer system. They often times pump several hundred yards, and some pump up to a mile. Due to the duty requirements of these pumps, they are substantial pieces of equipment. Many weigh in at over 100 pounds.

Sewage pump - Traditional sewage pumps are used to pump sewage a short distance. They are mostly used in homes and businesses that have a gravity sewer or septic tank but have water fixtures (toilets, sinks, baths, etc.) that are too low to effectively use the gravity system. They are frequently found in finished basements.

Upflush - Upflush pumps are like sewage pumps. They only pump a short distance. The difference between upflush pumps and sewage pumps is the upflush unit is modular, with the pump and controls integrated into the tank. They generally service a small number of fixtures, like a basement bathroom, or a wet bar. Some upflush units are incorporated into purpose built toilets.

Sump Pump - Sump pumps remove ground water from your basement and pump it away from your home or business. They typically have dedicated drain lines that move the ground water back into the surrounding soil. Sump pumps should never discharge into the sewer system, especially if you have a sewer pump.

Shallow Well Pump - Shallow well pumps are located above ground, usually indoors. They use suction to draw drinking or irrigation water out of the ground as opposed to a submersible pump that is located below the water table. Shallow well pumps, like other pumps, operate off an electrical pressure switch and use a pressure tank to even out the pressure of the water being discharged.

Pool Pump - Pool pumps serve several purposes for your above or in ground pool. They mix the water in the pool to allow for even distribution of your pool treatment, circulate your pool water through your filtration and heating system, and allow you to drain your pool.