FAQ’s for Sewage and Sump Pump Homeowners
Q: What to do when your alarm is sounding?
A: We suggest going out to your pump station to see if your pump is running constantly or not at all. Your control panel has a silencer for the alarm that you can shut off. Call Fox Pump Systems to further troubleshoot your problems.
Q: Why does my station have a strong odor and what can I do about it?
A: Your station may not be operating properly. By adding odor eating chemicals, such as chlorine, this could help eliminate your odor problem.
Q: Why does my station keep clogging?
A: Sewage systems are designed to handle human waste and a moderate amount of toilet paper, here is a guide to better your station:
- Feminine pads of any kind – even if they say “flushable” should never be flushed into the system. Cotton swabs, cotton balls, condoms, tampons or tampon applicators, disposable wipes, razors, disposable diapers, baby wipes and paper towels should NOT be flushed into the system.
- Using the toilet for trash disposal of paper goods, haircut trimmings, food, rags, plastic of any kind, etc, will cause the pump station to have problems or fail completely if the items are suctioned into the volute of the pump.
- Pouring solvents, paint, thinner, grease, oil or abrasive chemicals can cause cord damage to the pump.
- If underwear or rags are accidentally flushed into the system, call our office immediately at 619-240-4013 so that we can get a service technician to clean and service the system before permanent and costly damage occurs.
Pump Types and What They Are Used For
SUMP PUMPS are automatic pumps used to remove ground water from sump pits. The most common application is to pump water from a pit located in the basement that collects groundwater from a perimeter drainage system designed to prevent basement flooding.
UTILITY PUMPS come in various submersible and non-submersible designs. Typical applications for these portable pumps include removing standing water off basement floors or construction sites, draining aquariums, emptying window wells, hot tubs, wading pools and crawl spaces, or boosting water pressure for cleaning jobs around the house.
SEWAGE PUMPS are automatic pumps used when liquid being pumped contains solids up to 2” in diameter. Pumping waste from a bathroom to a sewer or septic line is a common application.
WELL PUMPS are used to deliver water from an underground water source to your home. There are three types of well pumps, Shallow Well Jet Pumps, Convertible Well Jet Pumps, and Deep Well Submersible Pumps. Shallow Well Jet and Convertible Well Jet Pumps are NOT submersible and are usually placed inside a protected area outside a well. Deep Well Submersible Pumps typically are submerged inside your well.