EFFLUENT PUMP CHAMBERS FOR SEPTIC SYSTEMS
FAST, RELIABLE SEPTIC & DRAIN SOLUTIONS IN CLARKSVILLE, TN & SURROUNDING AREAS
Maintenance & Repair Specialists for Effluent & Ejection Pump Chambers in Clarksville, TN
A septic pump chamber is a separate, watertight tank (concrete, fiberglass, or plastic) installed after the main septic tank to collect treated effluent and pump it to a drain field. This type of system is used when gravity flow is impossible due to uphill terrain or high-water tables. Pump chambers are generally installed after the primary settling tank, ensuring only liquid effluent (not raw sewage) is pumped out, preventing premature failure of the absorption area.
What Is A Pump Chamber?
The pump chamber for a Septic System is a concrete, fiberglass, or polyethylene container that collects the septic tank effluent (the liquids from a septic tank) and pumps it to the Leach field when gravity cannot move the wastewater effectively. The chamber contains a pump, control floats, and a high-water alarm, ensuring wastewater is discharged at appropriate intervals and preventing backups
The Pump
The heart of the pump chamber. It physically moves the wastewater.
Control Floats
These control floats are the brains of the system. They detect the level of effluent in the chamber.
High-Water Alarm
This float triggers an alarm when the effluent level gets too high.
Understanding Your Effluent or Sewage Ejection Pump
A Submersible Effluent Pump
This type of pump enables wastewater dispersal in scenarios where gravity flow is impossible—such as uphill, long distances, or shallow soil—preventing tank backups and ensuring proper distribution for soil treatment. Choosing the right pump ensures that your system runs smoothly and avoids premature wear or failure on your system. We only use Liberty pumps for their durability, longevity and this company stands behind their products.
1/2 HP Sewage Ejector Pump
This Liberty Pump Pro370-Series 1/2 HP 115-Volt Sewage Ejector Pump is a submersible system designed to lift sewage and wastewater from below-grade up to a main sewer or septic line. This pump is ideal for residential and light commercial sewage applications where gravity drain is not possible.
The Pump Chamber Is The Heart Of A Septic System.
Get your Pump Chamber inspected every time you get your septic tank pumped to make sure that everything is working properly.
How Does A Pump Chamber Work?
A pump chamber septic system is a wastewater management system that uses a submersible pump in a separate tank to move liquid effluent to a drain field. This type of system is typically used when gravity-fed systems are impractical due to hilly terrain or high groundwater.
The Pump
The heart of the chamber, it physically moves the wastewater into a sewer line or a leach field. The pump is located within its own tank or “chamber”.
Control Floats
These floats detect the level of effluent in the chamber. When the level rises to a certain point, the float activates the pump. Once the level drops to a lower point, the pump is turned off.
Alarm float
This float will trigger an alarm light to come on and a buzzer to sound if the effluent level inside the pump chamber gets too high. This could be caused by a faulty pump, float, or circuit, excessive water use, or other reasons.
Outdoor Pedestal High Water Alarm
This alarm for a pump chamber provides an immediate, 24/7 audible and visual warning (flashing light/buzzer) to alert homeowners of a high-level liquid condition, typically signaling a failed pump, power outage, or excessive water use. It prevents sewage backup into the home, allowing 1–2 days of reserve capacity for repairs. This is an excellent system with very little maintenance required.
Indoor High-Water Alarm
This float triggers an alarm when the effluent level gets too high, indicating a potential problem with the pump or other system components. The alarm should consist of a buzzer and an easily visible light. It should be on an electrical circuit separate from the pump. The pump discharge pipe should have a union and valve for easy removal of the pump. A piece of nylon rope or other non-corrosive material should be attached to the pump for taking the pump in and out of the chamber.
What Happens If The Alarm Comes On?
This is an indication that the pump has STOPPED working in your system. Use water conservatively (avoid baths, showers, and clothes washing) until the problem is corrected. To silence the alarm, push the reset light on the alarm panel. Before calling for service or repair, here are some common issues that can arise with a pump chamber, that most people can troubleshoot on their own:
- Check to see if there is a tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse.
- Check to make sure the power cord is still plugged in.
- Check to see if the control floats or electrical cords are tangled in the chamber. Floats should operate freely.
- Check to see if there is any debris on floats or support cable that is causing the pump to switch off. Lift the floats out of the chamber and clean.
CAUTION: Always turn off the power supply at the circuit breaker and unplug all power cords before handling the pump or floats.
Does A Septic Alarm Mean My Tank Is Full?
No! A septic alarm typically indicates a high-water level in your pump chamber, not necessarily that the solid-waste tank is full. It signals that the pump is not moving water to the leach field fast enough. This is often due to a broken pump, faulty float switch, or excessive water usage. You usually have 24-48 hours before a potential backup into your home occurs. This will give you time to call your licensed Effluent & Sewage Ejection Pump Specialists at Combat Drain Cleaning & Septic Services so that we can take care of your pump alarm before any problems can arise. A Septic Alarm Could Indicate Any Of The Following:
Pump Failure - The pump motor has burned out, or it is not receiving power, causing the chamber to overfill.
Float Switch Malfunction - The floats that tell the pump when to turn on or off are stuck, damaged, or tangled, preventing the pump from running.
Excessive Water Usage - Too much water (e.g., doing laundry, heavy rain, or guests) enters the system faster than the pump can move it out.
Tripped Circuit Breaker - The pump's electrical breaker has tripped or the GFCI outlet has tripped, shutting down the system.
Clogged Effluent Filter - A clogged filter on the discharge pipe prevents water from leaving the tank
Maintenance Tips:
Regular Inspection
Check the pump, float switches, and wiring annually for wear or corrosion, as these components are critical to preventing system failure.
Alarm Response
If the alarm sounds, minimize water usage immediately—such as avoiding laundry or dishwasher use—and call Combat Drain Cleaning & Septic Services to get this problem resolved quickly and efficiently.
Access
Ensure the riser, which provides access to the pump for maintenance, is secure and properly sealed so that foreign materials cannot clog the pump mechanism.