A septic tank pump failure can lead to messy, expensive, and even hazardous problems if not addressed quickly. Whether you’re dealing with backups, high-level alarms, or a suspicious odour in your yard, understanding the type of septic pump you have and when to call a professional is critical to protecting your home and your wallet.
Here’s your guide to identifying septic pump issues, basic troubleshooting, and when it’s time to call Septic Medic for expert septic tank pump repair.
Types of Septic Tank Pumps: What Do You Have?
Before exploring repair options, it’s essential to determine the type of septic pump your system utilizes. Each serves a different function, and not all are repairable in the same way.
1. Grinder Pump
Used in systems where waste needs to be pumped uphill, a grinder pump breaks down solid waste and sends it through small-diameter pipes. These pumps are installed in tanks that receive blackwater (from toilets, sinks, etc.) and are commonly found in homes without gravity-fed septic systems. If your grinder pump fails, sewage may back up into the home, and it’s an urgent sign to call for repair.
2. Effluent Pump
Effluent pumps are used in systems that move clarified water (not solids) from a pump chamber to a drain field. These pumps are commonly used in modern septic designs and are not designed to handle any solid waste. A failed effluent pump can cause overflow in the pump chamber or premature drain field failure.
3. Sump Pump
Although not typically part of a septic system, sump pumps can be used in areas with high groundwater levels to remove water from around foundations or basements. Occasionally, they’re integrated into septic systems for dewatering, but other pump types are better suited for wastewater management. If a sump pump is tied into your septic system and isn’t working, you’ll want a pro to determine whether it’s actually the right solution.
Why Your Septic Pump Might Stop Working
Septic pumps in Alberta homes can fail for a few key reasons:
- Clogs caused by non-flushables (wipes, hygiene products, wrappers, etc.).
- Float switch failure—the sensor that controls when the pump turns on/off gets stuck or damaged.
- Electrical problems, like wiring issues or a tripped breaker.
- Cold weather damage, especially during freeze-thaw cycles, is common in Alberta.
If your pump fails shortly after being replaced or pumped, the issue likely goes deeper than a full tank.
Troubleshooting vs. When to Call a Pro
You can safely try the following before calling for help:
- Shut off the power to the pump before doing anything.
- Inspect the float to make sure it’s not stuck or obstructed.
- Listen for unusual sounds or periods of silence when the pump should be operating.
However, lifting or cleaning the pump, inspecting electrical components, or diagnosing drainage field issues should always be left to professionals, especially if you’re dealing with blackwater or high-voltage components. DIY mistakes can make things worse (and far more expensive).
What to Do While Waiting for a Repair
If your septic tank is backing up and repairs or parts will take time, calling for septic tank pumping is often the best immediate step. Pumping out your tank gives your household a few more days of use and can help remove the foreign debris that caused the failure.
This is also a great preventative measure while you’re waiting on a replacement septic pump installation or repair from Septic Medic.
How to Prevent Septic Tank Pump Issues
You can’t always avoid mechanical failure, but you can reduce your risk:
- Don’t flush anything but toilet paper.
- Schedule yearly septic inspections—we’ll check the tank, pump, floats, and alarms.
- Replace your pump every 8 to 15 years, depending on usage and maintenance.
- Keep grease, chemicals, and non-biodegradables out of your system.
- Repair any leaking fixtures that unnecessarily overload your tank.
When to Call the Pros to Fix Your Septic Pump
If you’re dealing with frequent alarms, sewage backups, or slow drains, and especially if you’ve tried basic fixes to no avail, it’s time to call in a pro.
At Septic Medic, we specialize in septic tank pump repair and replacement throughout southern and central Alberta. We’re familiar with all types of systems and pump configurations and can help fix your septic pump quickly and professionally.
Whether your pump is clogged, burned out, or just not turning on, we’ll find the root of the problem and fix it right the first time. Our certified technicians provide safe, fast, and cost-effective septic tank pump repair services tailored to Alberta’s climate and septic regulations.
Contact Septic Medic for all routine or emergency services.
