Problems With Low-Pressure Sewer Systems

A low-pressure sewer system in your home is an alternative to a more traditional gravity-based sewer system. Low-pressure systems work by using grinder pumps in different waste water locations to send materials to a plant for treatment. The initial setup cost is not too high, but the systems have been known to have problems during operation.

High Maintenance

• One of the biggest problems with a low-pressure sewer system is the amount of maintenance involved with the operation. In contrast to a gravity sewer system, low-pressure systems are complex because of their high number of mechanical parts and numerous pumps. This type of sewer system needs to be monitored on a consistent basis, which can be time consuming and difficult.

Overflows

• Low-pressure systems run the risk of water overflowing whenever power sources go out. Since the grinder pumps rely on electricity, a low-pressure system will cease to operate during a power outage. Unless your home has a generator on hand, the system will be useless until power is regained. In turn, this can lead to sanitation problems when waste water backs up in a home.

Noxious Smells

• If proper ventilation techniques are not employed, there is the potential for noxious smells to be emitted from the sewer system. Usually there are valves on this type of system. But if they get clogged or malfunction, the ensuing smells can become overwhelming.

Costs

• A low-pressure sewer system tends to be more costly than a gravity sewer system. This is mainly due to the high volume of mechanical parts that need to be periodically replaced. On top of this, a low-pressure system usually doesn't last as long as a gravity system, which means more installations.