How long does a ejector pump last? check this out | ejector pump cost
Olivia Hensley
Updated on July 20, 2026
A good sewage ejector pump should last at least 7-10 years. However, with proper installation and routine care, your pump can last 30 years or more. A common reason people need to replace their sewage ejector pumps is due to faulty installation where plumbers cut corners or used the wrong sized pumps.
Ejector pumps cost $300 to $800, on average. However, you can find basic plastic pumps for as little as $150 and high-end cast-iron models for up to $2,000. Plastic is generally the most budget-friendly, while a full cast-iron pump is the most expensive option but also the most robust and least prone to breaking down.
Sewage ejector pumps start as low as $150, but the cost for yours will depend on the horsepower you need. Higher horsepower machines can pump more gallons per hour (GPH). Even top brands like Liberty Pumps and Zoeller have models that range in price from around $200 to more than $2000.
How much does it cost to replace a sewage ejector pump?
It’s a decent investment, as having a new sump pump installed can cost anywhere from $100 to $3,000, although the average cost falls right around $1,000.
What happens if ejector pump fails?
Since gravity alone can’t remove the waste from the home, what happens if that crucial step – the ejector pump – one day fails? If that occurs, flushed water and waste can build up in the pipes and eventually burst – usually at their lowest point, which for most homes is the basement.
How do you know if your ejector pump is broken?
If your sewer ejector pump is making strange new sounds, like grinding or screeching, or if it making its usual operational sounds but at a much louder volume than usual, don’t write them off. This is one of the first signs of trouble that you’re likely to recognize.
What causes an ejector pump to fail?
The ejector pump is tilted. The float valve or sensors are set incorrectly. The drainage lines are clogged. The drain lines are too large or too small.
How reliable are ejector pumps?
When properly maintained, a good sewage ejector pump can last about 8-10 years, though in all many cases, you’ll be able to get possibly 20-30 years of reliable service! Some homes are built using an ejector pump to handle all the waste and other ejector pumps are used have if you have a bathroom in your basement.
How long do basement sewage pumps last?
How Long Does A Sump Pump Last On Average? Like other appliances and equipment in your home, your sump pump won’t last forever. Averaging about 10 years, you might not notice your sump pump has malfunctioned until it has stopped working.
What is the difference between a sump pump and a sewage ejector pump?
While the sump pump manages groundwater, the ejector pump moves wastewater from basement toilets and greywater from basement sinks, appliances, and floor drains uphill to the main sewer line. The ejector pump basin should be covered with a sealed lid.
Is it OK to unplug ejector pump?
Most sewage ejector pumps and some sump pumps have a floating ball attached to the pump by a separate electrical cord—if you see two cords coming out of the basin, you have a float switch. If they’re OK, unplug the pump from the back of the piggyback plug and plug it in directly.
How often should a sewage ejector pump run?
Assuming your sump pump is in good normal operating condition, it should only run when the water level activates that float switch. Depending on your location, it’s not unusual for your pump to kick on two or three times a day.
When should I replace my ejector pump?
You’ll likely need to change your sewage ejector pump every seven to 10 years, but if you maintain it properly and have it inspected annually, it may last up to 20 years.
Why does my ejector pit smell?
During dry periods, water in the sump pit evaporates over time because the pump does not remove it. When the basin fully dries, gases escape which cause bad smells in your home.
Why is my ejector pump humming?
Low humming noises from a sump pump are often completely normal. However, if the pump begins humming louder than usual and/or is not pumping water, it’s time to investigate. First, check the vent hole for a clog and clean it out if needed. If this doesn’t help, you may have a stuck check valve.
How do you maintain an ejector pump?
How to Maintain Your Ejector Pump:
Clean and prepare the pump. Turn off the circuit breaker and water source to the pump so it doesn’t turn on while you are working. Check the oil. Inspect pump impeller. Tighten connecting elements. Assess bearing damage. Ensure your seals remain tight. Clean your vents.
Do all houses have ejector pumps?
While not all houses with basements require ejector pumps, they are essential because they prevent toilets (especially), sinks and bathtubs from backing up due to an excess of wastewater. Here is why the toilet ejector pump is important for a newly built house.
How do you unclog a sewer pump?
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Inspect the outlet on the discharge pipe. Remove anything plugging the end of the discharge pipe or hose.Unplug the sump pump and float from the electrical outlet.Remove the sump basin’s lid.Inspect the screen or small opening where the water enters the pump. Remove any debris blocking the inlet.