Grinder Pumps vs. Sewage Ejector Pumps: What's the Difference?

Managing wastewater is a crucial part of any plumbing system. If you’re in the market for new or upgraded plumbing, you’ll hear about the pros and cons of grinder pumps and sewage ejector pumps to handle your wastewater needs. What you choose will depend on several factors! Grinder pumps and sewage ejector pumps serve different purposes and are best suited for specific situations. Let’s break down what each pump does, how they compare, and how to choose the right one for your needs.

Grinder Pumps

Grinder pumps feature a cutting mechanism that grinds solid waste into a fine slurry. Designed for high pressure plumbing systems, these devices can pump sewage over longer distances, often thousands of feet. A grinder pump is ideal for low-lying properties where wastewater needs to be transported uphill, systems with smaller pipes that could clog without grinding, and properties that are far from a main sewer line or septic tank.

Built to handle lower volumes of sewage, grinder pumps are better suited for moving small amounts of waste over long distances. A grinder pump works best with smaller, pressurized pipes. 

Due to the specialized grinding mechanism, the grinder pump comes with a higher upfront cost (though savings are realized over the long-term.)

Sewage Ejector Pumps

Sewage ejector pumps, on the other hand, are built to move wastewater and solids without grinding them. They typically rely on gravity to push waste through larger pipes to a sewer line or septic tank. Designed for low pressure and high volume, a sewage ejector pump can only pump sewage to distances under 750 feet. These pumps are commonly used for basements with a bathroom or laundry below the main sewer line, short-distance transport where grinding isn’t necessary, and lower water volume systems that don’t require extensive pressure.

With the ability to move up to 200 gallons per minute of raw sewage, sewage ejector pumps are ideal for handling large volumes of wastewater. These pumps work best for larger, gravity-fed pipes. 

For another look at the differences between the two types of pumps, take a look at this blog!

Choosing the Right Pump for Your Needs

When selecting between a grinder pump and a sewage ejector pump, consider the volume of sewage, the system design, and the distance waste must travel. For pressurized sewer mains, long distances, or uphill sewage flow, a grinder pump is often the better choice. For high volume and short distances or for setups that rely on gravity, a sewage ejector pump will do the job. 

Both grinder pumps and sewage ejector pumps are crucial tools for effective wastewater management. The right choice depends on your plumbing system’s design and your property’s specific needs. Need help deciding? Reach out to the SquarePeg experts for personalized recommendations!