Sewage Pumps - Which one do i need?

Macerator pumps are used only for heads higher than 10m and with a low flow rate when you have a discharge rate restriction imposed by the water authority who own the sewer you discharging into.

Here at Tanks Direct we have a huge selection of water pumps available.

Wastewater or sewage pumps are used to move wastewater, or water that contains solids and contaminants, from one place to another. They are commonly used in various industrial, commercial, and residential applications to move wastewater from a source to a sewage treatment plant or to another location entirely.

Booster pump sets are used to increase water pressure. Booster pumps work by taking in water at a low pressure and increasing it to a higher pressure with a centrifugal impeller. Booster pump sets are ideal for areas where the water pressure is too low to provide adequate water flow.

GRP pump enclosures are made from a composite material of glass reinforced polyester (GRP). Requiring little maintenance, GRP pump enclosures are highly durable and offer excellent protection from the elements and corrosion.

Submersible pumps are designed to operate while completely submerged in a fluid.

Swimming pool and garden pumps are used to circulate water in swimming pools, hot tubs, water features, and gardens. They keep the water free of debris and maintain the desired water temperature. The pump typically pulls water from the pool or garden and pushes it through a filtration system before returning it to the pool or garden.

1. Vibrations

Although running pumps below their maximum speed will tend to reduce overall system noise, altering the speed of a pump may result in structural resonances that would not occur at the pump's maximum speed. This may cause vibration which can be harmful to equipment and cause an increase in noise at certain frequencies. There are a number of products that help to alleviate these potential issues.

2. Higher initial cost

Because of the added complexity of an inverter drive, variable speed pumps and systems which include variable speed pumps will cost more initially than a fixed speed equivalent. However, this additional cost is invariably outweighed by the long-term energy cost saving.

Variable speed pumps should be used in any installation where the pump duty is not constant. If a pump duty is constant a fixed speed pump may be the most cost-effective option.  However, even in fixed duty applications there may be an advantage to running a pump below its maximum speed. A motor running at 80% of its maximum speed uses 48% less energy.

When you consider all the pumping that occurs globally, whether in large industrial plants or in domestic heating systems, this accounts for almost 20% of the world's energy consumption. Because of this there is a huge opportunity in the pumping industry to make a significant contribution to using our energy resources efficiently. In pumping applications where the duty required is not constant, it is highly likely that installing a variable speed pump will result in significant energy savings - likely to be between 30% and 50% in many applications.

Other benefits of variable speed pumps include:

1. Improved reliability

Because variable speed pumps run at speeds below their maximum, there is a reduction in wear, particularly in mechanical seals.

2. Improved control

Variable speed pump controller can monitor small variations in pressure and make adjustments accordingly. This also means there is less liklihood of sudden changes in flow or pressure.

Submersible pumps are very good at dealing with groundwater flooding and rainfall. Designed to operate underwater, they work by using electric motors to draw water from flooded areas and divert it away from buildings and other areas that need to remain dry. Submersible pumps are commonly used to drain water from flooded basements and other areas that are prone to flooding.

We stock a wide range of submersible pumps, that are easy to install and maintain. They can be connected to pipes and other water control systems, allowing for quick and easy water removal in the event of flooding. They are designed to operate in a wide range of temperatures and conditions and are typically constructed from corrosion-resistant materials that can withstand long periods of exposure to water. Our submersible pumps are often equipped with protective measures, such as float switches and check valves, to prevent any damage to the motor or pump should the water start to rise too quickly.

Also known as sump pumps, submersible pumps are a type of centrifugal pump that can be operated when fully submerged underwater. Sealed so the electrics are protected, our range of submersible pumps can be used for a variety of applications including puddle drainage, swimming pool pumps, pond and water feature pumps, and drainage pumps.

Choosing the right water pump for your needs is essential for effective water maintenance. We stock a wide range of water pumps, so first you need to determine the type of water pump you need.

Wastewater or sewage pumps move wastewater from one part of a system to another. We offer a range of wastewater pumps in different capacities and configurations and come with a variety of features.

If you live in an area with low water pressure, our booster pump sets can increase the water pressure in your home or office.

Chemical pumps are designed to move fluids containing hazardous chemicals without risking exposure or damage to the pump or surrounding equipment.

Pressurised pumps are used to transfer fluids that require pressurisation.

Made from a composite material of glass reinforced polyester, GRP pump enclosures are highly durable and offer excellent protection from the elements.

Submersible pumps are a type of water pump that can be submerged underwater to pump out water. This type of pump is typically used in flooded areas or to pump out water from ponds, wells, or other water sources.

Swimming pool and garden pumps circulate water in a swimming pool or pond. The pumps work by creating suction to draw water from the pool or pond, and then using an impeller to push the water through a filter.

Our flood kits have what you need in the event of a flood.

Waste pumps and your wastewater system in general need regular servicing to keep it in working order. A general desludging of your system and a check of the components such as the sewage pump will keep the sewage treatment system in good working order for longer.

Generally, a good rule of thumb for servicing your sewage pump would be every 1 to 2 years or every time you empty your septic tank. It is a good idea to get it checked regularly to avoid a costly replacement further down the line.

If you are concerned about the risk of blockages but also need a flow rate which macerator pumps can’t provide, or even if it’s purely just a faster flow rate you need, a larger 65mm or 80mm pump will be able to achieve this, calculating a specific flow rate to your application is difficult and would be best speaking to a member of our technical team to help specify the right pumps for your station.

If you have an application where the risk of blockages that could enter the drain run is higher than usual, for example if the property is rented, tenants could unwillingly block the pump, this is also a problem if it is an apartment block as you wouldn’t be able to source who was responsible for blocking It, but everyone would need to pay their share to fix it.

Also, macerator pumps, because of how they cut through the waste, they can pump a much higher head (vertical distance), so when compared to vortex pumps, if you have anything over 10m, you will need to be selecting macerator pumps. Always check the pump flow curves for your application or you can call to speak to one of our technical team if you want to be sure the pumps will do the task at hand.

An automatic pump is a pump that will automatically turn itself on and off as the liquid level rises and falls. These pumps are usually longer lasting as they do not burn out but switch off automatically if there is no liquid to pump therefore, they do not run dry.

 A submersible pump means that the pump needs to be submerged or covered in liquid specifically the type specified on the pump such as water, wastewater, sewage etc.

A grinder pump takes the wastewater from the holding tank, grinding any waste into a fine slurry and then pumps it into a sewage treatment plant. They can pump over much longer distances but at a slower rate because they are high pressure and low volume pumps.

To see our grinder pumps click - https://www.tanks-direct.co.uk/semisom-125-gr-automatic-submersible-grinder-pump/p5628

Head is the height in which the pump is lifting the waste, measured from cover level of the pump station, to the cover level of the discharge manhole. With this measurement we can ensure we supply a pump powerful enough to lift the waste up that high. We will need to know this and also the distance that it is pumping to make sure the pump quoted is suitable.

If a booster or compact set is being housed externally, you will need an enclosure to protect the inverter from the elements so anything electronic needs to be protected by an enclosure of some sort, never leave the booster set to face the elements

You require at least 500mm above the break tank so you can service it and inspect it when required. Also, a booster just needs to be installed in a maintainable space so that the inverters can be reviewed if needed via clear walkways and facing into the room, not tucked away down the side of a plant room.

This depends on your existing pump and the type of installation you have or are planning on. The vertical Hippo 50 has a vertical port discharges via a 2” female port and the horizontal Hippo 50 discharges via a horizontal 2” female port but is also DN50 flanged

Sewage pumping stations can vary in noise levels, but they generally produce some degree of noise. The noise from a sewage pumping station primarily comes from the mechanical equipment used to pump wastewater, such as pumps, motors, and control systems. These machines can generate a humming, buzzing, or whirring sound, which can be audible depending on several factors. Larger pumps typically produce more noise than smaller ones. Modern stations often incorporate soundproofing materials and construction techniques to help minimise noise pollution. Most sewage pumping stations are designed to operate around the clock, but you may find that noise is more noticeable during quiet times, such as during the night, when ambient noise levels are lower.

Local regulations and community planning may dictate the noise levels allowed for sewage pumping stations. Authorities often set limits to ensure that these facilities do not become a significant source of noise pollution in residential areas.

Sewage pumping stations are designed to transport and pump wastewater, which can contain organic matter and sewage, leading to the potential for odours. However, the intensity and prevalence of these odours can vary widely. Well-designed systems incorporate features to minimise odours, such as properly sealed access points and ventilation systems that help disperse or filter out odorous gases. Regular maintenance of these systems, including cleaning and inspection, is crucial to ensure their effectiveness in controlling odours. Smaller domestic sewage pumping stations may generate fewer odours compared to larger, industrial-scale facilities. This is because the volume of wastewater and the concentration of organic matter are typically lower in residential systems. Warm and humid weather can intensify odours, making them more noticeable, and windy conditions can disperse odours and make them less perceptible. If the pumping station is located close to your home or living areas, you may be more likely to detect any odours, especially if there are issues with the station's design, maintenance, or ventilation.

Many local regulations and building codes require domestic sewage pumping stations to incorporate odour control measures to minimise any potential nuisances to nearby residents. These measures may include odour-neutralising chemicals or filters in the ventilation system.

Sewage pumps are typically designed to operate intermittently rather than continuously. The duration a sewage pump can run continuously will vary. Smaller domestic sewage pumps are generally not built for continuous operation and are meant to pump wastewater as needed. Larger, industrial-grade pumps may have the capacity and durability to run continuously for extended periods, but even they may require periodic rest to prevent overheating and wear. Domestic sewage pumps are designed to handle typical household or small-scale sewage flows. If the pump has to handle a sudden surge or an unusually high volume of wastewater, it may not be designed for continuous operation under such conditions.

Continuous operation can lead to heat build-up in the pump's motor and components and overheating can cause damage or reduce the pump's lifespan. Pumps are usually designed with cooling mechanisms, but they may still need breaks to dissipate heat effectively. Regular maintenance can extend a pump's operational duration. Always consult the manufacturer's guidelines and specifications for your specific sewage pump. These guidelines often include recommended operating durations and intervals for rest. Following these recommendations is essential to ensure the pump's longevity and efficient operation.

It is vitally important that your sewage pump station is regularly serviced and properly maintained. This will improve the day-to-day efficiency of your sewage treatment pump and help improve its lifespan. By inspecting the pump regularly, you can ensure all the components are working correctly

It is advisable to get your tank serviced once a year. Your tank will be emptied and cleaned, with any blockages removed. If any defects are detected during the service, it’s best to get faulty parts replaced as soon as possible. Failure to fix problems quickly can lead to major issues further down the line. For help and advice on how best to maintain your sewage treatment plant, please contact our friendly and knowledgeable team today.

The first cost to consider is for the sewage pump station itself. And this will vary greatly depending on the specific model you chose. Whether you need a single or double sewage pump station, you’ll find our prices at Tanks Direct are extremely competitive.

Then comes the cost of installation. If you are installing a pump for the first time in a space previously unprepared for installation, the cost will be higher than if you are replacing an existing pump. This is because all the additional preparation required has already been done. The location of your install could also have a bearing on the installation cost. If the site is awkward to get to or a difficult material to dig up, your costs will be higher.

You’ll also want to consider the ongoing maintenance costs of sewage pump stations. Regular servicing is essential to keep your equipment working as well as possible. Sewage pumping stations are subject to wear and tear and require regular servicing to operate effectively. Catching any issues early will minimise the risk of failure and help prevent costly repairs.

All Klargester pumping stations are suitable for pumping waste water effluent and sewage in accordance with BS 756-2. They are also designed in line with Building Regulations for Foul Drainage.

Your system size will depend on the type of waste you need to manage, your distance from the sewer and the difference in levels.

For expert advice, to help you select the correct system, please contact our specialist team. 

The key factors to size your system are as follows:

• Application: domestic, residential or commercial.
• Material application: sewage, effluent or surface water.
• Inlet depth (below ground level).
• Pumping distance and lift.
• Electrical supply.

To see our full range of pumping stations click - https://www.tanks-direct.co.uk/waste-water-tanks/sewage-pump-stations/c1011

In our 2” vortex range we use Hippo 50 pumps for up to 6m head and Hippo 100 pumps for up to 10m head. In our 2” macerator range we use Semison 125GR pumps, in our 2½” vortex range we use Semison 650 pumps and lastly in our 3” vortex range we use hippo 80-200. Details of which can be found either on our website or a copy can be sent across please call for more information.

A sewage pump station is a storage chamber incorporating a sewage pump which transfer either the foul or surface water to a local drain, manhole, sewer or soakaway pit.

A pumping station is used where a normal gravity system cannot be, either because there is insufficient fall over a distance, or the common collecting point is lower than the discharge point.

To see our full range of pumping stations click - https://www.tanks-direct.co.uk/waste-water-tanks/sewage-pump-stations/c1011

A sewage pump is a submerged pump that moves sewage solids from one point to another, usually from a septic tank or sewage treatment plant to a percolation area or soakaway pit which is a distance away of uphill. Alternatively, it can be used to pump into a gravity flow sewer mains.

No the tanks are supplied without an inlet hole, this is usually drilled on site however we do supply the seal to make the hole water tight and should you require us to drill this for you at the factory, we can offer this also.

Tanks are sized on the number of people using the system, you should allow 150 litres per person multiplied by the number of people using the property to calculate your 24hr storage capacity.

For commercial properties please contact us, and we can help size this for you. 

The size of the pump required is down to the rise to main from the tank to the sewer, please call us for further help on this.