Frequently Asked Questions
What is an LPS grinder pump station?
The LPS grinder pump station is a self-contained appliance that consists of a wastewater-holding basin, a 1-hp Semi Positive Displacement grinder pump, on-off controls and a high water level alarm. It is engineered with specific features for low flow applications over a wide range of pressure. Also, the design of the pump will virtually eliminate a clogged discharge line due to sediment buildup, and the non-fouling level controls, as well as the entire grinder pump station, require zero preventive maintenance.
Is an LPS grinder pump station the same as a septic tank?
No. The grinder pump grinds waste from the home and pumps it to a public sewer system. Septic tanks leach the wastewater into the ground and require periodic pumping.
What happens when this pump fails? Will I have to stop using my toilet while this pump is fixed?
The grinder pump is a self-contained unit designed to be repaired quickly and easily. Each unit has an alarm that alerts you to call the local service center, Signa Mechanical at 855-747-4462. You should keep water use to a minimum until a technician arrives. Use your toilet sparingly.
How long will my pump last before I need to repair or replace it?
There are existing installations in place that have been in operation for over 50 years. Typically, there is an 8- to 10- year period before service is required to replace wearing pump parts.
Does the pump have an alarm to warn me if something is wrong?
Yes. An alarm panel, located outside your home or inside your garage, has an audible and visual alarm that indicates high water levels in your grinder pump’s tank. If there is a problem with the unit, you will get a notification by the alarm. Use the silence switch to silence the alarm and call for service immediately. An optional upgrade called System Alert Monitor also notifies you directly (via email or text) and allows you to monitor the station remotely.
What if the alarm activates and I am not home to hear it?
There may be an option to upgrade the existing control panel to include the “SAM” Remote Monitoring. This system is a remote telemetry system that provides alarm notifications for high level and power failure as well as clearance of these events via email and/or text message. It is self-contained cellular based system that requires an annual service plan which is available through your distributor, Signa Mechanical.
Do the pumps require much maintenance?
No. Unlike other appliances or equipment in your home, no periodic maintenance is required. The pump system is designed to be virtually maintenance-free for long periods. The grinder pump core is an electro-mechanical device that will eventually require service. You can expect some sort of repair to a properly installed unit after 8 to 10 years on average.
Am I limited as to what I can pour down the drain or into my pump? What materials or objects will clog the pump?
As with conventional sewer systems, do not allow strong chemicals, oils, flammables, grease, glass, metal, diapers, plastics, etc. to enter the pump or pressure sewer system. If in doubt, refer to your grinder pump owner instructions/warranty card.
Please contact your local authority for proper disposal methods.
Can I use a garbage disposal?
Yes; again, refer to instructions/warranty card for items/foods that are not to be put in the garbage disposal. Also, check your local regulations. Some sewer districts do not allow garbage disposals on their system.
I'm going on vacation or I am a part time resident, what should I do with my station when I am gone?
The system does not need to be turned off or altered before you leave for a length or time. If you plan to be away for more than one week, fill the bathtub with water, and then drain it. The water will flush the tank and pump out any solids before you leave.
In vacation (part- time residences) homes, it can be expected that many of the units would not operate for prolonged periods of time. This has not proven to cause a problem in any of the currently installed systems in the United States.
Do I need to pump out my pump station like I would a septic tank?
No. Wastewater is temporarily stored in the basin and then pumped out when the water reaches a certain level; solids are ground up and removed as well. Septic tanks are simply tanks and need to be pumped periodically.
How long is the warranty for the grinder pump?
Depending on your existing pump make/model, the standard warranty may be two or three years from the date of installation (startup). Contact Signa Mechanical at 949-548-1125 for more information.
How noisy is the pump?
With an outdoor unit buried in the ground, you will not hear it at all if you’re 10 or 15 feet away. If you’re standing on top of it, it sounds like your washing machine when it’s running — just a hum and some vibration.
Does the grinder pump emit any unpleasant odors?
Odors can be a problem from time to time in all types of sewer systems. Large- diameter, long- distance gravity mains have been a classic source of gas generation and odor. The closed network of small-diameter pipelines of a pressure sewer system is inherently less susceptible to odor problems.
What will this look like in my yard?
The system will be buried and the only thing you’ll see is top cover, which is less than 30 inches in diameter. The cover is designed to blend into your yard as much as possible and can easily be landscaped to become more invisible. We also offer a vented rock in 4 colors to blend in with the landscape.