Effluent Pump Tanks

Effluent Pump Tank Basics:

Pump Tanks generally consist of a chamber that is of concrete, fiberglass or polyethylene that collects effluent from the septic tank. Typically the chamber contains a pump, pump control floats, and a high-water alarm float.

The Controls -

Pump operation controls function differently based upon the type of setup within the chamber, however the overall objective of delivering a predetermined dose of effluent to the downstream component is always the same.

Demand Controls -

Many onsite sewage systems transport effluent through the use of a pump controlled by adjustable floats. When the effluent rises to the level within the chamber moving the ON/OFF float into an upward position, the pump will turn on, delivering effluent to the downstream component. They pump will remain on until the effluent level within the chamber has dropped low enough for the ON/OFF float to move into a downward (hanging) position. Some pump chambers may utilize 2 floats representing both the ON and OFF positions.

Changing the length of the tether between the float and the float tree will change the amount of effluent dosed.

Time Dosed Controls -

When utilizing a Control Panel Timer that controls the dosing of effluent to the downstream component, the control floats are used to to identify when the effluent level in the tank is high enough to dose. When activated the control panel is set to dose the downstream component with a predetermined amount of effluent.

NOTE: Some Time Dosed Control Systems do not utilize floats, but instead may utilize an alternative control type such as "Float-less Controls ". For systems utilizing "float-less" controls please refer to your operators manual or contact the manufacturer of the product to learn more. Keep in mind that the primary function of the float-less control is the same as a "Float" control.

High-Water Alarm Control -

Within the chamber, a float or other alarm triggering mechanism may be installed. When the float/mechanism is activated an audio/visual alarm should sound, warning the property dweller that there may be problems within the pump tank.

Proper Maintenance of the Effluent Pump Tank -

Proper maintenance of the effluent pump tank is critical for the proper long term function of the onsite sewage system. Annually a trained service provider should conduct a service inspection for the following Effluent Pump Tank components:

1. Pump Draw Down:
   • calculate how many gallons/liters per minute the pump is delivering to the downstream component.
     
     
2. Check Control Floats:
   • Lift and lower the On/Off & Alarm floats/mechanisms to determine function.
     
     
3. Check the "Sludge & Scum" levels:
   • Over time Sludge and Scum may build up in the pump tank. When the levels are too high, the tank must be pumped to ensure that suspended solids do not make their way into the pump and get moved on to the downstream component causing possible adverse effects.
     
4. Check for leaks:
   • Look around the tank to ensure that no ground water is getting into the tank. Excess water can cause premature failure of the onsite sewage system.

Accessibility For Maintenance -

Because the Effluent Pump Tank needs regular maintenance it is always recommended that the tank is fitted for accessibility at either time of installation or during the first maintenance of the onsite sewage system. Proper accessibility may differ between tank/system configurations but the minimums should include:

1. Main Compartment Riser to grade with a secured watertight lid;
2. Quick Disconnect of the Effluent Transport line for easy removal of the pump;
3. All floats mounted on a float tree that can be removed from the tank during maintenance;
4. A ball valve to stop effluent from returning from the downstream component back into the tank;
5. A water-proof junction box for all electrical connections

Other Material -

• Pump Tank Image Library (462kb)
• Effluent Pump Tanks - Including Interactive 3d Model (2.96mb) | (Adobe Reader 7.0 Required)

Please review the acceptable use policy

.PDF printable version

For more information contact your Local Health Jurisdiction,
Product Provider or Local Wastewater Treatment Association.