How to Choose the Right Ejector Pit Size for Your Home?

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Choose the Right Ejector Pit Size

When it comes to maintaining a functional and efficient sewage system in your home, one of the critical components is the ejector pit. Proper ejector pit sizing ensures that wastewater is effectively pumped from lower levels of your home to the main septic tank

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about selecting the correct size for your ejector pit.

What is an Ejector Pit?

A sewage ejector pit is a type of sump pit designed specifically for handling wastewater, including sewage, that needs to be pumped from a lower elevation to a higher one. It typically consists of a sealed basin where waste is collected before being pumped out through a sewage ejector pump.

Residential ejector pump system diagrams usually show how this system works: wastewater enters the pit, and when the water level reaches a certain height, the pump is activated, moving the waste to the main sewer line or septic tank.

Why is Ejector Pit Sizing Important?

Selecting the correct ejector pit sizing is crucial for several reasons:

Proper Functionality

A pit that is too small may not hold enough waste before needing to pump, leading to frequent pump cycles, increased wear on the pump, and potential clogs. Conversely, a pit that is too large could waste space and may not operate efficiently.

Preventing Overflow and Backups

If the ejector pit is too small, the system could become overwhelmed, leading to sewage backups in your home. Choosing the right size ensures the system can handle the volume of wastewater generated by your household.

System Longevity

Properly sizing your ejector pit reduces strain on the ejector pump, which can extend the lifespan of the pump and other components of the sewage system.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Ejector Pit Size

Several factors play a role in determining the right size for your ejector pit. Here are some key considerations:

1. Wastewater Flow Volume

The first thing to evaluate is the volume of wastewater your household generates. This depends on the number of people living in the home and the number of plumbing fixtures like toilets, sinks, bathtubs, etc. connected to the ejector pit.

2. Pit Depth and Diameter

The depth and diameter of the ejector pit directly affect its capacity. The depth determines how much wastewater the pit can hold before it activates the pump. A general guideline is that the pit should be deep enough to allow for a proper sewage storage volume but not excessively deep, which could lead to unnecessary costs. However, regular sewer line cleaning services can help maintain the functionality of the pit.

3. Pump Capacity and Horsepower

Your ejector pump’s capacity and horsepower should be matched to the size of the pit. The pump should be capable of efficiently lifting the waste to the appropriate height to connect to your sewer line or septic system. A pump that’s too small for the pit will struggle, potentially leading to pump failure, while an oversized pump may waste energy.

Consider the pump’s performance specifications when selecting an ejector pit size. Some residential ejector pump system diagrams may show the ideal pump sizes based on the pit size and wastewater flow rate. A professional plumber can help match the right pump to the pit for optimal performance.

4. Future Expansion

It’s always a good idea to plan for potential future expansions in your home. If you’re adding a bathroom, laundry room, or another plumbing fixture, you’ll need to ensure your ejector pit can accommodate the additional waste. 

Also, if you are experiencing plumbing issues related to your drains frequently, it would be perfect to have a camera inspection to decide the size of the ejector pit.  

How to Use an Ejector Pit Sizing Calculator

An ejector pit sizing calculator is a tool designed to simplify the process of determining the correct size for your pit. These calculators typically ask for information such as:

  • The number of fixtures in your home
  • The approximate wastewater flow rate
  • The vertical distance the pump will need to lift the waste
  • The capacity of your chosen pump

By inputting these details, the calculator can provide an estimated size for your ejector pit, including the required depth and diameter to meet the needs of your home’s plumbing system. 

Conclusion

Choosing the right size for your ejector pit is essential for ensuring that your home’s wastewater system works efficiently and reliably. The right size helps prevent backups, extends the life of your pump, and ensures your system can handle your household’s needs.

FAQ

How deep is a sump pump pit?

A sump pump pit is typically 18 to 24 inches deep, depending on the system’s requirements and local codes.

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