A grinder pump is a wastewater conveyance device. Waste from water-using household appliances (toilets, bathtubs, washing machines, etc.) flows through the home’s pipes into the grinder pump’s holding tank. Once the wastewater inside the tank reaches a specific level, the pump will turn on, grind the waste and pump it to the central sewer system or septic tank.
Grinder pumps can be installed in the basement or in the yard. If installed in the yard, the holding tank must be buried deep enough that the pump and sewage pipes are below the frost line.
In some areas of the District, low pressure sewer systems have been installed which use grinder pumps instead of gravity flow for collection. Both residences and businesses may utilize this type of system where it is available.
The District has standard specifications for grinder pump systems for economy and ease of maintenance. These systems are owned and operated by the property owner, however, the pumps are maintained by the District. Each grinder pump owner must enter into a pump maintenance contract which applies only to the pump and does not include maintenance of the tank or lines. Repairs to the pumps will be performed by District staff at the owner’s expense.
Commercial grinder systems will be sized by the District engineer on a case by case basis for appropriate application. Commercial grinder systems must also have a maintenance contract for cleaning and routine maintenance either through the District or an outside plumbing contractor.
All grinder systems must be installed by a pre-qualified Grinder System Plumber.
