Grinder Pump
What is a Grinder Pump
Traditionally, sewer service to a house is provided by a gravity line where the drain lines from the house flow by gravity to the street or City owned sewer lines. Alternatively, many Brentwood homes have a low-pressure sewer which requires the use of sewage grinder pump to pump sewage from the house to the City sewer lines.
Who owns the grinder pump?
A homeowner owns the grinder pump system including the pump, tank, electrical controls, piping, and valves from the house to the public sewer main. The City offers a repair service to the contents of the tank and control/electrical panel on the side of the home (not the service lines to the pump and to the street - same as a gravity line, these are the homeowner's responsibility).
What cannot be flushed down your toilet (see City Code, Chapter 70-Division 2)?
- Baby wipes or cleaning wipes
- Feminine products
- Diapers
- Grease
- Paint
- Paper Towels
- Cotton or fabric
How do I know if my grinder pump isn’t working properly?
The red light on the grinder system will flash. Additionally, you may notice your toilets not flushing properly or a gurgling sound coming from your drains.
What to do if your grinder pump alarm is flashing or making a noise.
Please call the Water Services Department immediately. The City offers a maintenance service on the pump and controls that currently charges a $35 service fee for calls within regular business hours, and a $60 fee after reg. hours. There is no charge for replacement parts or labor. You must be enrolled in the City’s maintenance program to receive service by City staff.
- For service during regular business hours, please call 615-371-0080. Please call 615-371-0160 during night, weekends, or holidays.