Ok I've been reading similar posts, I want to try to at least check this on my own... B4 calling a plumber! But I'm nervous! The basement bathroom is RARELY used... But with 3 small kids I wouldn't be surprised if there is indeed a toy or something blocking the propellers... Does one simply unscrew the cover? What about the stack PVC and the intake PVC? Can they be disconnected or do I need to cut them to look inside? Please Help this DIY mama! Thank u!

Btw did I mention I discovered this problem today while going downstairs to get wrapping paper and stepping into a huge puddle!! Merry freaking Christmas huh?

The discharge line, the one the pump is connected to, probably has a rubber coupling connecting the pipe. The vent line may only go through the cover a couple of inches and you may have enough flexibility to pull it out of the cover. If not cutting the PVC is no big deal. Reconnect with rubber couplings.


I wouldn't be surprised if there is indeed a toy or something blocking the propellers..

More likely pump is just worn out. Close basement bath door and do not use until after Christmas. Do not recommend ejector pumps sold at Home Depot and Lowe's. After Christmas go to plumbing supply house and purchase a Zoeller.

Replacement is a nasty job but not that difficult. You will probably need assistance in handling the weight of the pump.

Always seems to happen at the worst times, for sure HMP!

Well, what I can tell you is that this isn't an easy job. It is messy and super stinky, so if possible I would wait until after Xmas to do the job as opening the lid and working on the pump can really stink the house up!

In terms of accessing the pump, yeah, you usually have to cut the vent pipe and disconnect the disharge pipe from the BOTTOM of the check valve mechanism (the fitting with clamps on it in most cases). Then, remove the screws and pull the lid up and off the pipes to get access to the pump. Next step would be to pull the pump up and out of the pit... do this by pulling up on the pipe... NOT the power cord. THIS IS NOT EASY TO DO as the pump is heavy. Now, if you get that far you'll inspect the pump impeller and see what's caught up in the pump. Remove whatever it is that is clogging the impeller and then the fun stuff of dropping the pump and putting everything back together so that it is tight enough not to let sewer gasses into the house starts for you!!

If you do get that far, pop back and we can chat abourt reconnecting everything, OK?

I'd probably have a good friend help or just hire a plumber... really is a nasty job!

Hope that helped in some way!

Mark