Sewage Ejector & Grinder Pump Replacement on the Eastern Shore & in Anne Arundel County
Alarm going off? Basement bathroom backing up? We replace sewage ejector pumps for below-grade bathrooms and laundry, and grinder pumps for homes on low-pressure sewer systems, from Kent Island and Easton to Annapolis and Edgewater.
- MD Master Plumber MPL #102054
- Licensed & insured
- Free on-site estimates
Pump alarm going off right now? Stop using water in the house: no showers, laundry, dishwasher, or flushing. The basin is close to full. Then call 410-739-2919.
Ejector Pump vs. Grinder Pump
They look similar, but they do different jobs. Using the wrong one causes clogs and early failure.
| Sewage ejector pump | Grinder pump | |
|---|---|---|
| What it does | Lifts waste and solids up to a gravity sewer or septic line | Grinds waste into slurry and pushes it through a pressurized sewer line |
| Where you'll find it | Below-grade bathrooms, basement laundry, and fixtures lower than the main drain | Homes on low-pressure sewer systems, often near the water or downhill from the main |
| Pressure | Lower head, short lift | High pressure over long distances |
Signs Your Pump Is Failing
High-water alarm
The pump isn't keeping up, or it isn't running at all.
Slow drains below grade
Basement fixtures drain slowly or back up into the shower or floor drain.
Sewer odor
A failing seal, cracked lid, or vent problem lets sewer gas escape.
Running nonstop
A stuck float or failed check valve keeps the pump running and wears it out.
Tripping the breaker
A motor that's drawing too much power is near the end.
Loud grinding or humming
A jammed impeller or worn grinder often means replacement.
Who Owns Your Grinder Pump?
On some low-pressure sewer systems, the grinder pump belongs to the county, the sewer utility, or your HOA. On others, it belongs to you. Before anyone replaces it, it's worth finding out, because the owner may be responsible for repairs.
Not sure? Check with your sewer provider or HOA, or ask us when you call and we'll help you figure out who to contact.
Keep your pump running longer
Never flush or drain:
- "Flushable" wipes, paper towels, or feminine products
- Grease, oil, or fat
- Dental floss, hair, or cat litter
- Medications or harsh chemicals
Power out? Your pump can't run, so keep water use to a minimum until power returns.
How We Replace a Pump
- Diagnose. We check the float, alarm, check valve, venting, and pump to find the real problem.
- Quote. You get a written price for the repair or replacement before we start.
- Replace. We install the new pump with the correct check valve and a sealed basin lid.
- Test. We run the pump through full cycles and confirm the alarm works.
Cost factors
Ejector or grinder, pump size, basin condition, and whether the check valve, alarm, or basin also need replacing.
Basements
Below-grade baths and laundry in Annapolis, Severna Park, Easton, and Chestertown homes.
Low-pressure sewer
Grinder pump homes near the water across the Shore and in Anne Arundel County.
Estimates
Free on-site estimates, with the price in writing before work starts.
Ejector & Grinder Pump FAQs
What's the difference between an ejector pump and a grinder pump?
An ejector pump lifts waste from below-grade fixtures up to your main drain. A grinder pump grinds waste into a slurry and pushes it through a pressurized sewer line. They aren't interchangeable.
What should I do when my pump alarm goes off?
Stop using water in the house right away, then call us. The alarm means the basin is close to full and the pump isn't keeping up.
How long does a sewage ejector or grinder pump last?
Many last 7 to 10 years or more, depending on use and what goes down the drain. Wipes and grease are the most common reasons pumps fail early.
Is my grinder pump my responsibility?
It depends on your sewer system. Some grinder pumps belong to the county, utility, or HOA, and others belong to the homeowner. Check with your sewer provider or HOA before replacing it.
Will my pump work during a power outage?
No. Both ejector and grinder pumps need electricity. Keep water use to a minimum until power returns, or ask us whether your generator can carry the pump.
Related: Sump pumps · Drain line replacement · Whole house repiping · All plumbing services
Pump Alarm Going Off?
Stop using water, then call our licensed team. We replace ejector and grinder pumps across the region.