Ejector Pump

Is your ejector pump giving you trouble? Don’t let a malfunctioning ejector pump flood your basement! If you’re in the North Chicago area, including suburbs such as Skokie, Lincolnwood, Niles, Evanston, Morton Grove, Park Ridge, Des Plaines, Prospect Heights, Mt Prospect, Wheeling, Lincolnshire, Glenview, Wilmette, Kenilworth, Winnetka, Northfield, Deerfield, or Highland Park, then First Chicago Plumbing is here to help. Our certified plumbers are experts in ejector pump replacement, and we’ll have your pump up and running in no time.

• Ejector pump installation
• Ejector pump repair
• Basement ejector pump repair and installation
• Ejector pump battery backup

Ejector pumps are an important part of your plumbing system, helping to pump sewage and wastewater from your basement to the sewer line. When an ejector pump stops working, it can quickly lead to a messy and smelly backup in your basement. That’s why it’s essential to have a functioning ejector pump at all times. At First Chicago Plumbing, we understand how important it is to have a reliable plumbing system, and we’re committed to providing the best possible service to our customers. So if you’re experiencing issues with your ejector pump, don’t hesitate to give us a call. We’ll take care of the problem, so you can get back to your normal routine.

What Does an Ejector Pump Do?

An ejector pump is essential for homes with plumbing fixtures located below the main sewer line—typically in basements. Gravity alone can’t push wastewater uphill, so the ejector pump collects and lifts wastewater from lower-level bathrooms, laundry rooms, and utility sinks up to the main sewer or septic line.

Unlike sump pumps that remove clean groundwater, ejector pumps handle both liquid and solid waste, including toilet sewage. Without it, waste can’t exit your home properly, causing unpleasant and hazardous backups.
A properly installed and maintained ejector pump ensures:

• Wastewater is safely removed from basement plumbing
• No overflow or sewer gas odors
• Full compliance with plumbing and health codes

Signs Your Ejector Pump Needs Replacement

An ejector pump doesn’t usually fail without warning. It gives off clear signals—if you know what to watch for. Ignoring those signs can lead to basement flooding, property damage, and serious health risks from sewage exposure.

Here are the most common red flags:

• Frequent Basement Backups: If wastewater backs up through your basement toilet, shower drain, or floor drain, your pump may not be moving waste to the sewer line efficiently. This can indicate a failing motor, a clogged discharge line, or a worn impeller.
• Unusual Noises During Operation: Ejector pumps should operate with a low, steady hum. Loud grinding, buzzing, banging, or rattling usually means the internal components are damaged—often the motor or impeller blades. These parts wear out over time and can eventually seize up.
• Persistent Sewage Odors: A strong sewage smell near the pump basin or in the surrounding basement area can point to a venting problem or a broken seal. Gases escaping into your home aren’t just unpleasant—they can be dangerous.
• Pump Runs Constantly or Won’t Shut Off: If the pump keeps running even when there’s no water in the pit, the float switch may be stuck or malfunctioning. A constantly running pump can burn out the motor and significantly increase energy bills.
• Visible Water or Waste Around the Pit: Pooling water or raw sewage near the pump is a serious sign of failure. It usually means the pump isn’t discharging properly, possibly due to a clog, failed check valve, or complete pump failure.

If you’re seeing any of these symptoms—or if your pump is over 7–10 years old—it’s smart to schedule an inspection. First Chicago Plumbing can quickly diagnose the issue and recommend whether repair or replacement is the best move.

Our Ejector Pump Installation Process

At First Chicago Plumbing, we approach every ejector pump installation with precision, professionalism, and attention to detail. From the initial assessment to the final system check, we make sure every step is done right—so you don’t have to worry about a thing.

Here’s exactly what to expect:

1. Initial Inspection: We begin with a thorough evaluation of your home’s plumbing system. This includes checking the elevation of your basement plumbing, assessing how waste currently flows through your system, and identifying any existing issues with drainage or venting. We’ll also measure your basin and determine the proper pump capacity (in horsepower and gallons per minute) to handle your household’s needs.
2. Removal of the Old Unit: If you have an existing ejector pump that’s failing, we carefully disconnect it from the power, vent, and discharge lines. We inspect the basin and surrounding components for damage or buildup, then properly dispose of the old unit. If any pipes, check valves, or seals are worn or corroded, we’ll replace them to ensure a solid foundation for your new pump.
3. New Pump Selection: Based on your setup, we recommend a pump that’s both reliable and appropriately sized. We only use trusted brands that meet current plumbing codes and come with manufacturer warranties. We consider factors like power efficiency, noise level, float switch design, and battery backup compatibility.
4. Professional Installation:
   – Once the pump is selected, we install it with precision:
   – Connect discharge piping and properly pitch it for drainage
   – Install a new check valve to prevent backflow
   – Ensure vent lines are connected and unobstructed
   – Seal the basin with an airtight cover to control odors
   – Safely connect to the power supply or install a dedicated outlet if needed
5. Full System Testing: After installation, we simulate normal operation by running water into the basin. We confirm that the pump activates at the correct water level, discharges waste completely, and shuts off properly. We test the float switch, check for any leaks, and inspect for vibrations or noise that could signal alignment issues.
6. Clean-Up and Review: We never leave a mess behind. Once the job is done, we clean the work area, double-check your system, and walk you through what we’ve installed. We also share tips on pump care and answer any questions you may have about ongoing maintenance or adding a battery backup.

Our goal is simple: give you a worry-free, fully functional ejector pump system that protects your home from backups and keeps your plumbing running smoothly.

Why Choose First Chicago Plumbing?

When it comes to ejector pump installation and repair, you need a team that knows what they’re doing—and treats your home with care. Here’s why so many homeowners in North Chicago and surrounding suburbs trust us:

• Licensed, Insured, and Certified: Our plumbers are fully licensed and insured for residential and commercial work. We follow all local codes and best practices, so your system is safe and compliant.
• Fast, Reliable Service: We respond quickly—especially in emergencies. Whether your ejector pump failed overnight or you need a new system installed this week, we’re ready to help.
• Residential and Multi-Unit Expertise: We’ve worked on everything from single-family homes to multi-unit buildings. No matter the setup, we know how to size, install, and maintain your ejector pump properly.
• Upfront Pricing: We provide clear, detailed estimates before any work begins. No surprise fees. No confusing invoices. Just honest pricing and quality service.
• Trusted Brands and Materials: We use pumps and parts from industry-leading manufacturers with proven reliability. Your system will be built to last.
• Customer Education and Support: We don’t just install and leave. We walk you through how your system works, how to maintain it, and when to schedule inspections—so you’re never left guessing.

At First Chicago Plumbing, we show up on time, do the job right, and stand by our work.

Need ejector pump help now?

Call us today or request a free quote online. We’re ready when you are.