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How Long Should My Effluent Pump Last?


The average life expectancy is 6 to 10 years for a residential low head effluent pump and 3 to 15 years for residential high head effluent pump. Life expectancy of the pump depends on many different factors, some of which are the quality of the pump, how often the pump has to run, and the electrical supply to the pump.

The table below lists common troubleshooting symptoms, probable causes, and corrective actions.

Symptom

Probable Cause(s)

Corrective Action


Pump won't start or run

Blown fuse

Replace with proper size fuse

Low line voltage

If the voltage is under the recommended minimum, check the size of the wiring from the main switch on the property. If OK, contact power company.

Defective float switch

Replace the float switch.

Defective motor

Replace pump

Pump starts and stops too often

Backflow of water from piping

Install or replace the check valve

Faulty float switch

Replace the float switch.

Pump won't shut off

Defective float switch

Replace the float switch.

Restricted discharge

Remove the pump and clean the pump and piping

Float obstructed

Remove the obstruction

Pump runs but delivers little to no water

Anti-airlock hole is plugged.

Turn off the pump, clean out the anti-airlock hole, and restart pump

Something is caught in impeller

Clean out the impeller

Low line voltage

If the voltage is under the recommended minimum, check the size of the wiring from the main switch on the property. If OK, contact power company.

Click the links below for more Effluent Pump info on our YouTube Channel:

How to Select an Effluent Pump

Why Sump, Sewage, and Effluent Pumps NEED a Vent Hole

Do you still have questions or concerns about your effluent pump? Call us today at RC Worst & Company for any of your effluent pump questions.