How to Install a Septic Tank Pump
- 1). Dig a trench from the rear side of the septic tank to the field line distribution box. You will be installing a 1.5-inch pvc pipe, so the trench does not need to be very wide, and generally no more than 12 to 16 inches deep. Keep the line as straight as possible with as few if any turns or sharp bends. This will make less work for the pump to push the water to the field line and give it a longer life expectancy.
- 2). Install a submersible pump in the outlet chamber of the septic tank. You will need a septic tank with separate chambers in order for a pump to function properly. The first take will contain most of the sludge buildup while the second chamber will hold mostly water. The pump is only intended to move water, not solid waste so the first chamber will need to be cleaned regularly to prevent sludge from flowing into the second chamber.
- 3). Connect the drain line to the outlet port on the pump. Make certain the connection is secure as any repairs will be difficult once the tank is filled. You will also need to set the float switches which will activate the pump when the water level reaches a set depth. check the manufacturers recommendation for your pump to determine the proper setting.
- 4). Wire the pump motor using the direct burial wiring. The pump should be on a breaker all its own and if possible the breaker should be a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interruption) device. This will allow for added protection against shorts or electrical shocks. If you are not familiar with electrical wiring, hire a professional to complete this portion of the project.
- 5). Test the pump by adding water to the septic tank. The pump should activate, pump out the water and then shut off. Once you have confirmed the pump is working properly, back-fill the trench and cover the septic tank.
