It is important to know the cost of ejector pump installation if you plan to install a new one or replace your existing pump. The cost may vary with the price of the pump and the cost of labor charged by the installer. Before you move on to the prices, let’s learn more about ejector pumps and why you need them.
What is a Sewage Ejector Pump?
A sewage ejector pump is responsible for removing sewage into the sewer or septic system. This is different from a sump pump that removes water from rain, snow, or flooding. Both these pumps are essential for use in homes, as they serve two different purposes. If you have basement plumbing, then you need a sewage ejector pump since the pipes lie below the main sewer line. This is important if you plan to install a bathroom in the basement or use the basement as a living space.
If you already have a sewage ejector pump at home, ensure it is functioning properly without clogs. If not, you could even end up with overflowing sewage. An ejector system usually fails if you flush diapers, sanitary napkins, or other things down the toilet. It may add stress to the pump causing it to fail soon. Under ideal conditions, an ejector pump can last up to 10 years. You need to maintain it properly and even do occasional repairs after a few years.
Cost of Ejector Pump Installation
The sewer ejector pump installation cost depends on the sewage system and certain other factors. The total cost of installing a brand new ejector pump is costly as you need to install new pipes and a pump pit. If you get it done by a professional plumber, they will charge around $2,500 for the complete installation with parts and labor.
Ejector Pump Material Price
An ejector pump normally costs between $300 and $800. But, there are basic plastic pumps at around $150 and cast-iron models up to $2,000. Although the plastic ones are more affordable, they may not have a long life expectancy. So, installing a sump pump with a sturdy build is a better choice in terms of performance and durability.
| Pump Material | Cost Range (Pump Only |
| Plastic | $150 – $500 |
| Plastic and cast iron | $200 – $700 |
| Stainless steel | $250 – $800 |
| Full cast iron | $250 – $2,000 |
Price by Capacity
The price of the ejector pump also varies with the rate of moving water. The price increases along with its rate in gallons per minute (GPM) or gallons per hour (GPH). The maximum power (in horsepower) needed for your pump depends on the depth of the main sewer line. Higher the distance, the more power needed to push the waste to the communal line.
| Gallons Per Minute (GPM) | Gallons Per Hour (GPH) | Average Cost (Pump Only) |
| 50 | 3,000 | $150 |
| 75 | 4,500 | $300 |
| 90 | 5,400 | $400 |
| 110 | 6,600 | $800 |
| 190 | 11,400 | $2,000 |
Installation Cost
For a standard replacement, the installation cost of an ejector pump costs from $650 to $1,200. A professional plumber charges from $45 to $200 per hour for the installation. It is recommended to get it done by a professional rather than trying it yourself. If you do it wrong, it may even cost you unhygienic sewage leaks.
Other Costs of Ejector Pumps
If you are interested in having a backup pump, it may cost you around $600 to install a battery-powered ejector pump. It is a wise decision if you live in an area prone to frequent power failures. So, you don’t need to worry as it will keep your non-gravity plumbing lines working even during a power outage.
Cleaning a sewage tank usually costs between $290 and $550. This may slightly increase if the tank is particularly dirty and needs a thorough cleaning.
The average running cost of an ejector pump is around $30 – $60 per month. This usually varies with how much wastewater and solids the pump has to deal with.
An ejector pump will cost you around $130 for maintenance per year. But you save your money by getting a whole-home plumbing inspection package. In case you need to repair some parts of the sewer ejector pump or related system, it may cost you additionally. So, make sure to keep your sewage system under proper conditions to prevent clogs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does an Ejector Pump Last?
The average lifespan of a sewer ejector pump is around 7 – 10 years. It depends on how you maintain the pump with occasional repairs. Sometimes, you may have to replace the float valves and check valves. The lid of the waste collection reservoir and the tank could wear after some time. So, proper maintenance helps the ejector pump last longer.
What Happens if Ejector Pump Fails?
If the ejector pump fails, then the gravity alone cannot move the waster to the sewer system. So, the waste and flushed water would build up in the pipes. This can cause the pipeline to burst at the lowest point which will most often be the basement. Since you don’t want to have overflowing sewage, having a backup ejector pump will be a wise choice.
How Often Should You Replace an Ejector Pump?
A good sewage ejector pump will usually last at least 7 – 10 years. But, with proper installation and routine maintenance, it can last up to 30 years or more. Faulty installation where plumbers use wrong-sized pumps is the most common reason that people have to replace their sewage ejector pumps.
Does a New Ejector Pump Come With a Warranty?
Most new sewer ejector pumps come with a 1-year warranty offered by the manufacturer. The warranty applies from the day you install the pump or for 3 years from the date of its manufacturing. For any breakdowns caused within the coverage period, the manufacturer will provide a replacement part. But since they will not cover any labor costs, you have to pay the plumber. The cost to replace ejector pump may vary with the task and preferences of the plumber.
Conclusion
It is better to have a sewage ejector pump installed in your house to have peace of mind. The process would be easier now since you are aware of the cost of ejector pump. Maintain your sewer system properly without flushing items that should not be flushed down the toilet. It will then remove the waste from your house for many decades without causing any issues.
Related Resources