Our pump and plumbing section is rapidly growing with the help of our newest team member George. George has been working in the industry for over 40 years, with a specialization in plumbing, HVAC, industrial pipe, valves, and fittings. We’re confident that you won’t find a better combination of product selection and advice to meet the needs of homeowners and plumbers alike.
If you’re not sure which type of pump is best for your project, start by covering the basics types of pumps and their uses. Including sump pumps, effluent pumps, sewage pumps, and jet pumps. From there, simply give us a call, visit in store, or order online. We can provide customized advice to help you get the job done right.
Sump Pumps
Sump pumps are most commonly used in basements and crawl spaces. They’re designed to move water from the lowest point in your home through a discharge line and away from your property. The sump pump sits inside a sump basin, sometimes called a sump pit, which is a hole carved below the surface level. When the water level inside the sump basin increases, the sensors on the sump pump are activated, emptying the sump basin.
Having a sump pump is crucial to minimize the risk of flooding, water damage, and mould development. This is especially beneficial during heavy storms, where flood risk increases, and in finished basements where water can damage flooring, carpets, drywall, or furniture.
Effluent Pumps
Effluent pumps are used when grey water needs to be moved against gravity in order to reach your septic system or leach field. A common example would be a home with a washing machine or laundry tub in the basement. An effluent pump would be required in this situation because the grey water needs to move vertically against gravity before it can tie into the homes drainage lines. If all of your home’s grey water sits above your leach field, you may not require an effluent pump in your home.
This chart offers a sizing estimate to determine the size and power of the effluent pump needed for your home.
Chart Source sumppumpsdirect.com
Sewage Pumps
Sewage pumps offer a similar function to effluent pumps, however they are designed to handle solids and sewage materials up to 2” in diameter. Effluent pumps are intended to process a minimal amount of solids, and no more than ½” in diameter. A sewage pump is most commonly installed to process wastewater coming from basement bathrooms. Like effluent pumps, they’re installed when gravity cannot do the job.
Sewage pumps can also have built-in grinders, which help reduce the size of solids passing through your sewage system.
Jet Pumps
Jet pumps, also referred to as well pumps, use suction to draw potable water from your well. They’re designed to create enough water pressure for houses, cottages, or irrigation systems.
There are two basic types of jet pumps, shallow well jet pumps and deep well jet pumps. As you may expect based on their names, the depth of your well will determine which pump is right for you. Shallow well jet pumps are designed to work up to 25 feet, while deep well jet pumps can function up to a depth of 200 feet.
Other important factors for selecting your jet pump would be the static level of your well and the recovery rate, which is usually measured in gallons per minute. Most wells will have a rating plate installed documenting this information for you.
All of these pumps are designed to overcome challenges unique to your property or project. With the help of this guide, we hope you’re feeling better prepared to create a healthy and efficient plumbing system.
Whether you’re a plumber looking for a local supplier of high-quality products, or a homeowner taking on a project for the first time, you’re welcome at Ontario Agra.
Simply give us a call, email, or visit in store where we can provide customized advice to help you get the job done right.
