Understanding The Role of Sewage And Ejector Pumps In Commercial Building Maintenance

When it comes to commercial building maintenance, numerous systems ensure the building functions smoothly day in and day out. Of these, sewage and ejector pumps are critical components for everything working perfectly. These pumps are typically hidden, but when they malfunction, the resulting disruptions can be big. Knowing how these pumps work and why they matter lowers building managers’ stress and saves them time and money.

Let’s break down the role of sewage and ejector pumps in commercial building maintenance, their key functions, and the steps you can take to ensure they work efficiently.

What Are Sewage Pumps?

Sewage pumps move sewage water from toilets, sinks, and drains to the main sewer line or septic system. These pumps are needed because gravity alone may not be sufficient to remove the waste, especially from areas like basements. 

What Are Ejector Pumps?

Ejector pumps are similar to sewage pumps and are used to send wastewater to a higher elevation that wouldn’t be possible without a pump. They push sewage from below-grade plumbing fixtures to the building’s sewer line to help prevent blockages and backups in commercial buildings.

Important Functions Of Sewage And Ejector Pumps

If your sewage and ejector pumps are not working properly, you could have a serious problem with waste removal, which could create bad odors, flood, and pose a threat to humans. Effective commercial building maintenance depends on keeping these systems in top condition. 

Sewage and ejector pumps serve the following important functions.

Wastewater Removal

Sewage and ejector pumps are both necessary for draining wastewater at commercial properties. They ensure that water flows properly so there are no clogged areas and no possible backups that could cause serious damage.

Preventing Flooding

They help prevent flooding by shooting water away from areas where it might otherwise build up. If the water level rises too far, the pumps begin moving the wastewater to the correct drainage system.

Health And Safety

Sewage and ejector pumps are crucial to maintaining a clean and healthy environment. Wastewater backups cause the flow of unsanitary materials back into living spaces, causing hazardous mold growth and air contamination.

Preventing Costly Repairs

Taking the time to keep the sewage and ejector pumps in good working order can save you from paying large, expensive plumbing repairs in the future.

Why Maintenance Matters

Regular maintenance is a key part of commercial building maintenance. Like any other piece of equipment, sewage and ejector pumps need to be checked once in a while to ensure they’re working. If these pumps are neglected, the system will fail, and expensive repairs and even dangerous situations may arise.

How To Maintain Sewage And Ejector Pumps

Here are a few simple steps to ensure your pumps are operating efficiently:

• Check The Float Switch: The float switch turns the pump on and off. If the pump is stuck or fails, it won’t activate. Make sure that the float switch is working properly by checking it regularly.
• Inspect For Clogs: The pumps do not operate properly if the drains are clogged. To keep the system running smoothly, it should be checked periodically for debris and waste buildup in the pumps and blockages cleared.
• Check For Leaks: Look for any indications of leaks around the pump and pipes. A damaged or worn-out part may need replacing and can sometimes leak.
• Clean The Pump: Over time, the pump can start to fill with sludge and waste. Staying on top of the pump’s cleaning will help it keep running like a well-oiled machine.
• Test The System: Regularly test the pumps to ensure they are working as they should and that water is moving as expected.

When To Call A Professional?

Regular checks can prevent most problems, but sometimes, you’ll need an expert plumber to solve them. After all, if you notice strange noises, frequent clogs, and an unusually high energy bill, it may be time to call a professional to inspect the system.

How To Tell If Your Sewage Or Ejector Pump Needs Attention

Even with regular maintenance, you should still know the signs that your sewage or ejector pump needs repair or likely replacement. Here are a few red flags to watch for:

• Unpleasant Odors: Beware of foul smells; they indicate a backup or a bad pump.
• Slow Drainage: A slow wastewater drain may indicate the pump is clogged or failing.
• Frequent Cycling: If the pump keeps turning on and off, it tries to move more wastewater than it can handle.
• Visible Leaks: If water is visible in the pump area, a system leak needs your attention.

Why Should You Get Your Sewage And Ejector Pump Professionally Inspected?

Sewage and ejector pump inspections are an important part of commercial building maintenance. A professional inspection identifies future problems before they occur and avoids unexpected system breakdowns. Regularly inspected pumps have a prolonged lifespan and save money on emergency repairs.

What to Expect During an Inspection?

A professional sewage and ejector pump inspection typically involves:

• Checks for leaks, damage, or signs of wear upon visual inspection of the pump and surrounding area.
• Testing the system to see that the pump went on and off correctly.
• Make sure the float switch and other components work all right.
• Review the system’s performance history to see how it will perform in the future.

Wrapping Up

Without sewage and ejector pumps, commercial buildings do not function smoothly. Maintenance, inspection, and prompt repair are the best ways to avoid problems and potentially costly repairs. Keeping these pumps in good condition also keeps wastewater under control and the building safe for all occupants.

If you would like to get your sewage or ejector pump system professionally inspected, Elite Commercial Inspections can help. Our experienced team offers comprehensive inspections to ensure your systems are up-to-date and functioning as efficiently and reliably as possible.

Don’t ignore small issues only to make them big problems! Contact Elite Commercial Inspections today to schedule an inspection for your commercial building and keep it in top shape.