Flushing These Items Could Spell Death for Your Septic Tank Pump

A septic tank pump (sometimes also referred to as a sewage pump) is generally used when one or more drains or plumbing fixtures is lower than the sewer line leading to a central sewage system (e.g. a municipal sewage pipeline) or a septic tank located on the property, or there is higher land between the drains/fixtures and the destination point.

Obviously it is usually better to position sewage lines, septic tanks and drain fields slightly lower than drains and plumbing fixtures so gravity naturally removes all waste water and solids, but sometimes the layout of the property is such that this is not possible.

The function of a septic tank pump is to pump waste water and solids up a pipeline, either directly into a main sewage line or septic tank, or to the point where the line heads downwards and gravity can take over.

When used properly, septic tank pumps work very efficiently and can quietly move wastewater and sewage from the home without really being noticed. However, if they stop working, the wastewater and sewage will not be removed and may even back up into the home – causing a very unpleasant and unsanitary situation. One of the most common reasons a septic tank pump stops working is due to blockage or damage caused by objects or chemicals that should not be disposed of into the septic system in the first place.

Some of the more common objects that find their way into sewage systems and cause damage to both sewage ejector and grinder-type septic tank pumps are:

• Abrasive materials, like sand or gravel
• Latex items, like gloves or condoms
• Hair clippings
• Oily and greasy substances like cooking fat, lard, and lubricating oils
• Diapers, disposable wipes, sanitary napkins, panty liners, and tampons
• Paper towels and facial tissues (they do not break down as easily as toilet paper)
• Dental floss
• Scraps of rag, cloth, string, cord, rope, etc.
• Caustic or other harsh cleaning materials, degreasers, and solvents
• Cigarette butts
• Plastic bags or other plastic items
• Coffee grounds
• Cat litter