If your plumbing system includes a basement bathroom or any drains located below your home’s main sewer line, then a sewer ejector pump is a key part of making everything function correctly. At Alpha Plumbing, we install, repair, and maintain sewer ejector pumps for homes and businesses across Lexington.
These systems are critical when gravity alone isn’t enough to move wastewater where it needs to go.
Most sewer problems start as subtle issues and quickly escalate into emergencies. We commonly handle sewer backups, collapsed pipes, tree root intrusion, grease buildup, broken cleanouts, and deteriorated cast iron or clay pipes. If you’ve noticed frequent toilet backups, sewage smells, or pooling water in your yard, those are clear signs that your sewer line needs professional attention.
On the commercial side, we handle larger-diameter sewer systems that support restaurants, offices, medical clinics, and multi-tenant buildings. Clogged sewer mains, broken grease traps, and line collapses in high-traffic businesses are common calls we take.
You’ll typically need a sewer ejector pump when fixtures such as toilets, showers, or laundry drains are located below the level of the main sewer or septic line. In these cases, waste cannot flow naturally into the system and must be pumped upward. This is especially common in finished basements or multi-level commercial buildings.
Without a working ejector pump, wastewater would back up into these lower fixtures, leading to serious sanitation concerns and damage. A properly installed ejector pump ensures waste is efficiently lifted and moved into the main drain line or septic system, protecting your plumbing and keeping everything flowing smoothly.
Not all sewer ejector pumps are built the same. Some pumps are equipped with a macerator or grinder, which breaks down solid waste before pumping it out. These systems are useful in homes or businesses where flushable materials need to be finely ground to prevent clogs in long or narrow drain runs.
Maceration pumps are not required in every installation, but there are situations where they make sense. For example, if the line needs to run a long horizontal distance or if there’s a history of clogging in the system, a grinder pump adds extra protection. During the planning phase, we’ll help determine whether your property needs a standard pump or one with macerating capability.
Like any mechanical component, sewer ejector pumps require maintenance to stay in good condition. Some of the most common issues we see include switch failures, clogged impellers, and worn-out motors. Over time, debris and non-flushable items can find their way into the system and cause damage.
If you notice gurgling noises, sewage odors, or slow drainage in a basement bathroom or utility area, your ejector pump may be in need of service. At Alpha Plumbing, we carry the tools and parts needed to diagnose and fix these systems fast. We also offer regular inspections to help prevent costly breakdowns before they start.
Installing a sewer ejector pump is a specialized job that requires experience and precision. First, we determine the proper pit depth and size to match your household or commercial wastewater needs. Then, we select a pump that fits your system’s demands and local code requirements.
Our team handles all aspects of the installation, including setting the basin, mounting the pump, connecting the venting and discharge lines, and testing for reliable operation. If a check valve or backup power source is needed, we’ll include that in the plan.
We also ensure every installation is fully compliant with Kentucky plumbing regulations and building codes. Once everything is in place, we perform a full systems test and provide instructions for ongoing care.