Ejector Pump Repair in Chicago's Suburbs

An ejector pump — also called a sewage ejector pump — moves wastewater and solid waste from below-grade plumbing fixtures (basement bathrooms, laundry tubs, utility sinks) up to the home's main sewer line, which typically runs above the basement floor. Without a working ejector pump, these fixtures cannot drain at all, and wastewater backs up into your basement. A failed ejector pump is a health hazard and should be repaired or replaced immediately.

Ejector pump repair costs vary depending on the specific failure. Float switch or check valve replacement is typically on the lower end, while motor replacement or full ejector pump unit replacement costs more. Alta Property Services provides free, written estimates before any work begins — no surprise charges. If your failure is covered by homeowner's insurance (often the case when related to sudden water damage), we work directly with your insurer using Xactimate documentation. Call (630) 461-9229 for a same-day estimate.

A sump pump removes groundwater and rainwater that collects in the sump pit — it handles clean water only. An ejector pump handles sewage: wastewater and solid waste from toilets, sinks, and floor drains located below the main sewer line. They are entirely different systems. A sump pump is typically located in an open pit; an ejector pump is housed in a sealed, airtight basin to contain sewage gases. If your basement bathroom drains back up, that's an ejector pump issue — not a sump pump issue.

No. You should not use any below-grade fixtures — basement toilet, sink, or shower — when the ejector pump is not functioning. Doing so will cause sewage to back up directly into your basement, creating a serious health hazard and potentially causing significant property damage. Stop using those fixtures immediately and call Alta at (630) 461-9229 for emergency ejector pump repair. We respond 24/7.

Most ejector pumps last 8–15 years with normal use and routine maintenance. Factors that shorten lifespan include heavy use, improper installation, flushing wipes or debris, and lack of periodic inspection. If your ejector pump is over 10 years old and requires frequent repairs, replacement is usually more cost-effective than continued repair. Our plumbers will give you an honest assessment and let you decide — we never upsell unnecessarily.

Standard homeowner's insurance policies don't automatically cover ejector pump failure or sewer backup — but many policies offer optional sewer backup or water backup endorsements that do. If you have this rider and your ejector pump failure caused water or sewage damage, you may have a valid claim. Alta Property Services provides Xactimate-standard damage documentation and works directly with insurers to support your claim. Contact us and we'll help you understand what's covered before we begin any work.