Tips for operating your grinder pump.

Grinder pump systems are essential in areas where standard gravity sewer systems are not practical. A grinder pump works like a large household garbage disposal, grinding household wastewater from your home plumbing (sinks, toilet, washing machine, etc.) before pumping it into the public sewer system.

Like most machinery, grinder pump systems require maintenance. Follow the guidelines below to maximize your system’s health and longevity.

Printable Grinder Pump Operating Guidelines

Please DO these things:

Know your system. Grinder pumps are typically buried underground with the collection tank lid, a clean out pipe access area, and the corresponding control panel above ground. Maintain the grade around your grinder pump station, ensuring it slopes away from the pump with the cover at least four inches above grade and uncovered. Keep a five-foot radius from the center of the lid clear around the station.

Monitor Operation. A properly functioning grinder pump runs a few times a day, making minimal noise when they turn on and emitting minimal or no odor. 

Prepare for Power Outages and Heavy Rain. The grinder pump’s control panel relies on electricity. Limit water usage during power outages to avoid overloading the system. 

Report Alarms. Call Oakland County Safety Dispatch at 248-624-6366 whenever an alarm occurs. If your neighbor's grinder system is in an alarm state, and you suspect that they are not home, please call the dispatch number.

Control Excessive Water Discharge. Property owners are responsible for the plumbing from their home to the grinder pump. Grinder pumps can handle approximately 11 gallons per minute. Too much discharge from multiple fixtures can exceed the capacity and cause sewage backup. 

What Not to Put Down the Drain

Kitchen: DO NOT dispose of grease or seafood shells in your grinder pump.

Bathroom: DO NOT flush dental floss, hair, personal hygiene items, any wipes, orthodontic or other rubber bands.

Household: DO NOT dispose of “Swiffer” type cloths, glass, rope, string, elastic, cat litter, aquarium gravel, or other abrasives.

Construction: DO NOT put steel wool, metal or wood shavings, lapping compound, sawdust, screws/staples/nails, drywall compound, dust from drywall installation, grout, rags or paint in the grinder pump.

Chemicals: DO NOT dispose of liquid drain cleaners, dark room chemicals, explosives, gasoline or other flammable/combustible materials.

Power Supply:

These specifications are for operation of the grinder pump ONLY, not for any other electrically powered equipment.

Electrical Power: DO NOT interrupt the electrical power supply to the grinder pump alarm panel. Be sure that the grinder pump power always remains on.

Outages: DO NOT use water during any electrical outage, unless your grinder pump is connected to a generator.  

Using a Generator:

• If using an emergency generator, ensure it meets these requirements: 5KW, 240 VAC, 20 amps with a neutral lead. 
• Larger generators are needed for additional loads. 
• Improperly installed or sized generators can damage the grinder station, leading to costly repairs for the homeowner.
• We recommend hiring a licensed electrician to size and install emergency generators.

Relating to Service, Repairs and Connections:

Pump Malfunction: DO NOT use water during any pump malfunction.

Repairs: DO NOT attempt to repair the grinder pump or service line yourself. 

Snaking: Contact our Pump Maintenance Unit at 248-618-9690 during regular business hours if you or a plumber intends to snake your plumbing to the grinder pump station.

Connections: DO NOT connect to a pressure or gravity sewer without the proper approvals and permits. 

Digging: DO NOT dig near the grinder pump and piping before underground utilities are located and marked. Call MISS DIG (811) at least 72 hours before you dig. 

Water Connections: DO NOT connect water softeners, downspouts, sump pumps or storm drains to the grinder pump, or allow any surface water to enter the grinder pump.

Cover Protection: DO NOT drive on the grinder pump cover.

Building: DO NOT cover the grinder pump with permanent structures. You will prevent access for maintenance and repairs.

Landscaping: DO NOT plant shrubs or trees around the station cover. They will impede service technicians during their maintenance work. 

Remember: 

Improper use of your grinder pump may result in direct charges to you for repairs. These repairs can be costly! When wipes, grease and other waste materials go down sinks and toilets, they can clog household plumbing and damage your grinder pump system. Click to view our Fats, Oils and Grease Brochure.