Wastewater management is crucial because it helps remove pollutants and harmful substances from water before they are released into our environment. So, it contributes to protecting us and our habitats from water pollution and associated diseases.

Submersible grinder pumps handle solid waste and fibrous materials. They grind and churn these materials and move them into the main sewer system. Plumbing that relies on gravity alone often leaves behind solid waste, which leads to clogged sinks and toilets and bad odours.

Keep reading to know how submersible grinder pumps work, their applications, and why they are important.

What Are Submersible Grinder Pumps?

Submersible grinder pumps are essential wastewater management devices. Unlike traditional sewage pumps, which move “dirty” or sewage waste to a septic tank, grinder pumps grind solid waste and move wastewater to the building's main sewage line.

From there, the water is moved into the municipal wastewater management system. These pumps are unique in their ability to move wastewater over longer distances and to greater heights.

When it comes to the difference between sewage and grinder pumps, sewage pumps typically use a float switch for pump activation, while grinder pumps use a pressure sensor. The grinding chamber in grinder pumps pulverizes sewage, allowing it to move through small pipes easily.

A grinder pump typically includes the following main components:

• Grinding tank
• Pump tank vent
• Pump
• Piping
• Valves
• Grinding chamber
• Grinding blades
• Drain inlet
• Control panel
• Level controls
• Electrical components

…and more.

How Submersible Grinder Pumps Work

Wastewater from the building flows down the drains and collects in a tank. As the wastewater level reaches above the threshold, the submersible grinder pump automatically activates, using cutter blades to grind the sewage into small particles.

It’s worth noting that there are two types of submersible grinder pumps: automatic and non-automatic. Automatic pumps are automatically activated, while non-automatic pumps require a manual switch or an external control mechanism.

Once activated, it generates enough pressure using a pressure discharge line to flow the wastewater up through a narrow sewer line to the main sewer.

Most grinder pumps feature a vertical discharge design, which allows wastewater to move upwards easily. A horizontal discharge design needs a 90-degree pipe section to flow the water upward.

Applications of Submersible Grinder Pumps

• Residential applications: homes, apartments, and subdivisions.
• Commercial and industrial use cases: malls, hospitals, and factories.
• Municipal applications: wastewater treatment plants and lift stations.

Benefits of Submersible Grinder Pumps

• Efficiency in handling solids and preventing clogging.
• A grinding pump uses a lot of cutting force to cut through anything, including rags, paper, flushable wipes, fabric, food particles, wood, and other solid waste materials.
• Cutting solid waste into tiny pieces keeps debris from damaging downstream equipment.
• Cost-effectiveness compared to traditional pump systems.
• Environmental benefits: reducing sewer blockages and backups.
• Reduces manual intervention by workers, making the process safer for workers, less time involved, and less disruption.

Considerations Before Installation

- Factors influencing pump selection: flow rate, head pressure, and solids content.

- Electrical requirements and installation considerations.

- Maintenance tips to ensure longevity and optimal performance.

Comparing Grinder Pumps with Other Pump Types

Choosing the Right Submersible Grinder Pump

The following are the key factors to consider when buying a submersible grinder pump:

• Capacity: From 70 gallons for residential homes to 500 gallons for light commercial use and above for industrial applications.
• Horsepower: Residential - 1/2 HP to 1 HP; Light Commercial - 1 HP to 2 HP; Heavy Commercial - 2 HP to 3 HP; Industrial - 3 HP and above
• Installation complexity
• Automatic vs non-automatic
• System design: Pipe size, pipe length, and elevation changes
• Flow rate and head pressure
• Discharge type: vertical vs horizontal
• Applications (Residential, commercial, or industrial). Residential pumps require simple automatic models that can handle everyday household waste. Light commercial applications require robust grinder pumps that can handle high volumes of waste. Advanced models are needed for industrial purposes.

Some applications require customized submersible grinder pumps. In this case, it is wise to consult with experts for customized solutions.

Installation and Maintenance Guidelines

Step 1: Preparation - Ensure safety, read the manual thoroughly, and gather the necessary tools.

Step 2: Choose a suitable location that is accessible for maintenance.

Step 3: Install the basin.

Step 4: Install a discharge pipe, check valve, and install a vent pipe.

Step 5: Provide electronic connections such as wiring, control panel, and grounding.

Step 6: Mount the float switch.

Step 7: Carefully place the pump into the basin and secure it using brackets or clamps.

Step 8: Inspect everything and make the necessary final adjustments.

Routine maintenance of submersible grinding pumps

• Plan regular maintenance to ensure it’s in good condition.
• Periodically inspect components like float switch, check valve, and electrical connections, and replace as necessary.

We recommend seeking professional help if necessary. Timely action can help prevent damage from being exaggerated, which can be expensive and cause downtime.

Hopefully, we’ll be able to help you understand submersible grinding pumps, how they work, and why they are important. These pumps can prevent clogging while providing efficient wastewater management in your residential or commercial premises. Just make sure you invest in the right product to make the most of it.