While it’s true that septic pump alarms are only a small aspect of your entire system, that doesn’t mean they’re not important. Understanding what these alarms do—and how to respond when they go off—can help you avoid costly damage and unpleasant backups.
Here are a few things to know about septic pump alarms.
- Septic pump alarms are designed to alert you when the liquid level in your pump chamber becomes too high. This usually indicates that wastewater is not being pumped out as it should. Most alarms consist of a float switch and a visual light, a loud buzzer, or both. When the alarm goes off, it is a warning sign that something needs to be addressed, not a failure in and of itself.
- The alarm could sound due to power outages, pump failure, clogged pipes, or heavy water use in a short period of time. For example, running a load of laundry, taking a long shower, and running the dishwasher at the same time may overload the system and set off the alarm. In other circumstances, the pump may be worn out, or a float switch may become stuck.
- If the alarm rings, the first thing you should do is reduce water consumption right away. Do not flush toilets, run water, or use appliances that drain into the septic system. Next, determine whether the alert is due to a power outage—if your home just lost power, the system may simply need time to catch up once power is restored. If the alert stays activated, contact us at Sauer Septic right away. Do not attempt to open the tank or fix the pump on your own, since this can be dangerous.
- Regular maintenance can help prevent septic pump alarms from going off. It is a good idea to have your septic system tested and pumped on a schedule that is appropriate for your home’s size and usage. Additionally, make sure you’re familiar with where the alarm panel is located, as well as what it sounds like, so you will know what it is and where to go if it does go off.
