Customers often ask, “Are flushable wipes truly safe to flush?” It’s important to understand the potential risks to plumbing systems before deciding.
The Common Household Item That Wreaks Havoc on Plumbing
Just because you can flush something doesn’t mean you should. One major cause of sewage backups might surprise you: flushable wipes. These seemingly convenient products can wreak havoc on your plumbing system, particularly your sewage ejector pump. In this article, we’ll explain why sewage ejector pumps and flushable wipes are a bad combination, explore some preventative measures, and discuss why you should call in the experts if you find yourself in need of sewage ejector pump repairs.
Before we get into the details, it’s important to clarify a common misunderstanding. Many people refer to sewage ejector pumps as “sump pumps.” While these terms are often used interchangeably, they refer to different devices. Sump pumps are designed to pump groundwater while sewage ejector pumps handle sewage and wastewater, pumping it to the main waste line. Understanding this distinction is crucial for maintaining your plumbing system effectively.
Understanding Sewage Ejector Pumps
Sewage ejector pumps are essential components of plumbing systems in homes with basements or below-grade bathrooms. They work by pumping sewage and wastewater from these lower levels up to the main sewer line or septic tank. Without these pumps, waste would not be able to flow properly, leading to backups and potential health hazards.
Unlike sump pumps, which deal primarily with clean water or minimal debris, sewage ejector pumps must handle solid waste and toilet paper. This makes them more robust but also more susceptible to clogs and damage if improper items, like flushable wipes, are introduced into the system.
The Myth of Flushable Wipes
Flushable wipes have gained popularity for their convenience and perceived hygiene benefits. However, the term “flushable” is misleading. Unlike toilet paper, which is designed to break down quickly in water, flushable wipes do not disintegrate as easily. They are made from stronger fibers and often contain synthetic materials that make them more durable. While this durability is great for cleaning, it’s terrible for your plumbing system.
When flushable wipes are flushed, they can quickly accumulate and form clogs, especially in sewage ejector pumps. These clogs can lead to significant damage and expensive repairs.
The Impact of Flushable Wipes on Sewage Ejector Pumps
Flushable wipes can cause numerous issues for sewage ejector pumps. Here are some of the most common problems:
Clogs and Blockages: Flushable wipes can clump together and form tough blockages that are difficult to clear. These blockages can prevent the pump from functioning correctly, leading to backups and potential overflows.
Mechanical Strain: The presence of flushable wipes in the pump’s mechanisms can put additional strain on the motor and moving parts. This strain can cause the pump to work harder than it should, leading to premature wear and tear.
Pump Failure: In severe cases, the blockages and mechanical strain caused by flushable wipes can lead to complete pump failure. This not only results in costly repairs but can also create a hazardous situation with sewage backup in your home.
Real-life examples and case studies abound of homeowners facing significant plumbing issues due to the misuse of flushable wipes. In many cases, these issues could have been avoided with proper disposal practices.
Other Ways Flushable Wipes Can Cause Problems
Beyond damaging sewage ejector pumps, flushable wipes can cause a variety of other plumbing issues:
Harm to the Water System: Our water treatment systems are not designed to handle products that don’t break down easily. Flushable wipes can clog treatment facility equipment, leading to increased maintenance costs and potential environmental harm.
Drain Line Clogs: Even if you don’t have a sewage ejector pump, flushable wipes can still cause clogs in your drain lines. If there is too much of an angle on a drain line junction or not enough fall to allow the wipes to drain completely, they can accumulate and form blockages.
Imperfections in Drain Lines: If your drain lines have any imperfections, such as small breaks, bellies, or rough areas, flushable wipes will quickly accumulate and lead to major sewer problems. These imperfections provide places for wipes to catch and build up, eventually causing significant clogs.
Signs Your Sewage Ejector Pump Needs Repair
To prevent major problems, it’s important to recognize the signs that your sewage ejector pump needs repair. Common symptoms include:
Unusual Noises: If your pump is making strange sounds, such as grinding, squealing, or rattling, it could be a sign of a blockage or mechanical issue.
Frequent Cycling: If the pump turns on and off more frequently than usual, it may be struggling to handle a blockage.
Slow Drainage: If wastewater is draining slowly from your fixtures, it could indicate a clog in the pump or discharge line.
Foul Odors: Persistent sewage odors around the pump area can be a sign of a malfunction or blockage.
Early identification of these problems can help you avoid more serious issues down the line. Regular professional inspections and maintenance are also crucial for keeping your pump in good working order.
Preventive Measures and Best Practices
The best way to protect your sewage ejector pump is to prevent clogs from occurring in the first place. Here are some tips:
Proper Disposal: Avoid flushing any items other than human waste and toilet paper. This includes wipes labeled as “flushable,” feminine hygiene products, paper towels, and other non-degradable items.
Education: Ensure that all household members understand what should and should not be flushed. Proper education can go a long way in preventing plumbing issues.
Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance checks for your sewage ejector pump. A professional can inspect the system, clean the pump, and address any potential issues before they become major problems.
Understanding Sewage Pump Warranties and the Impact of Flushable Wipes
Many sewage ejector pumps come with warranties that cover repairs and replacements under certain conditions. However, it’s important to note that using flushable wipes can void these warranties. Manufacturers often specify that only human waste and toilet paper should be flushed, and failure to adhere to these guidelines can result in a voided warranty.
When we clean a drain, especially one clogged with wipes, it’s important to understand that we haven’t made a permanent repair. Drain cleaning is a temporary solution to clear the blockage, but it doesn’t address the underlying issue of improper disposal. This is why only actual repairs, such as replacing damaged components or installing a new pump, are warrantied. To prevent recurring clogs, it’s essential to follow proper disposal practices and avoid flushing items that can cause blockages.
Why You Shouldn’t Tackle This Yourself
While some plumbing issues can be handled with a DIY approach, fixing a sewage ejector pump is not one of them. Attempting to repair or replace a sewage ejector pump on your own can lead to serious consequences, including:
Flooding: Incorrectly handling the pump can result in sewage backup and flooding in your basement, creating a hazardous and unsanitary situation.
Misdiagnosis: Without the proper expertise, it can be difficult to accurately diagnose whether the pump needs repair or replacement. An experienced plumber can assess the situation and recommend the best course of action.
Safety Risks: Working with sewage ejector pumps involves dealing with electrical components and potentially harmful waste. A professional plumber has the necessary skills and equipment to handle these risks safely.
We encourage customers to take on DIY projects when possible, but this is one instance where calling in the experts is essential. An experienced plumber can ensure that your sewage ejector pump is repaired or replaced correctly, preventing further issues and protecting your home from damage.
Conclusion
Sewage ejector pumps are vital components of your home’s plumbing system, and proper maintenance is essential to keep them functioning smoothly. Flushable wipes, despite their convenience, can cause significant damage and lead to costly repairs. By understanding the impact of these products and following best practices for disposal, you can protect your sewage ejector pump and avoid major plumbing issues.
If you’re experiencing problems with your sewage ejector pump or need professional advice, don’t hesitate to contact Aaron Services. Our team of experts is ready to help with all your sewage ejector pump maintenance needs.
For expert sewage ejector pump maintenance and repair, contact Aaron Services today. Visit our website or call us to schedule a service appointment and ensure your plumbing system is in top shape.
