
When there is a plumbing system below or even at the same level as a public sewer line or septic tank, as in the case of a basement bathroom, for example, waste is not able to flow fast enough through the system. A grinder pump helps to push waste matter quickly through the plumbing system. It does this by grinding up the waste so that it becomes a slurry and then pumping it through into the sewer or septic tank.
For obvious reasons, then, you would not want the grinder pump to stop working. To avoid problems there are some items you should never place down the toilet. These items include diapers, feminine hygiene products, cat litter, aquarium gravel, plastics, toxic chemicals, and grease which can build up in the tank.
It is also important to remember that grinder pumps are powered by electricity so if the home loses power its best to use as little water as possible to prevent the tank overfilling. You should also avoid connecting the grinder pump to a sump pump as this uses an excessive amount of electricity and will overwork the pump.
Another basic reminder is that if you are going to be away from home for a few days you will need to prepare the tank. You can do this by running water so that you activate the grinder pump, this will flush the tank with clean water and stop any nasty odors from entering the home.