South Africa’s market offers a range of sewage pump types suited to different applications – from houses in the bush, to high-demand industrial sites.
Because we have always provided installation and support for all the popular water pumps over our 13+ years at AfriPumps, we have learnt which pump types work best under typical South African conditions.
In this guide, we cover:
- Common types of sewage pumps available in South Africa
- How they work
- How to choose the sewage pump that’s best suited to your needs
What Is a Sewage / Sump Pump System?
A sewage pump system is designed to move wastewater and solids from one location to another – typically from lower ground (like a basement or sump) to a higher level where it can flow by gravity to a treatment facility or septic tank.
It usually consists of:
- A sewage pump
- A sump or pit (also called a wet well)
- Discharge piping
- Check and gate valves
- A float switch or sensor
- A control panel (for automated systems)
Which Pumps Are Used for Sewage?
The most commonly used pumps in South Africa include:
- Submersible sewage pumps
- Self-priming centrifugal pumps
- Grinder pumps (for tougher solids)
1. Submersible Sewage Pump
What it is:
A submersible sewage pump is designed to operate while fully submerged in wastewater. It sits directly in the wet well and is sealed to prevent electrical failure.
Common uses:
- Residential complexes
- Municipal wastewater treatment
- Industrial effluent transfer
Pros:
- Quiet operation
- Space-saving design
- Lower risk of pump cavitation
2. Self-Priming Sewage Pump
What it is:
A self-priming sewage pump is mounted above ground and designed to start pumping without manually priming the unit.
Ideal for:
- Municipal bypass pumping
- Portable pump stations
- Applications where easy maintenance access is important
Key benefits:
- Easy to service
- No need for submersion
- Handles solids well
3. Grinder Sewage Pump
What it is:
A grinder pump is a type of sewage pump equipped with sharp blades that grind up solids into a fine slurry before pumping. This allows it to move wastewater through smaller-diameter pipes without clogging.
Common uses:
- Homes located below the municipal sewer line
- Small-scale commercial buildings
- Properties with long or narrow discharge lines
Pros:
- Handles tough solids and fibrous waste
- Allows for smaller, more cost-effective piping
- Reduces risk of blockages in pressurised sewer systems
Understanding the Sewage Pump Impeller
The sewage pump impeller is critical in determining the pump’s ability to handle solids and prevent clogging.
Common impeller types include:
- Vortex impeller: Reduces the risk of clogging by moving solids in a circular motion
- Channel impeller: More efficient but can clog with fibrous materials
- Grinder impeller: Grinds solids before pumping – ideal for domestic or light commercial use
Sewage Pump Brands
South Africa has access to a number of high-quality sewage pump brands that are trusted for durability and performance. Three of the most widely used are Grundfos, Dab, and Ebara.
Grundfos Sewage Pumps
Grundfos is a leading global manufacturer known for its energy-efficient designs and smart technology integration.
Popular features:
- Stainless steel or cast iron construction
- Built-in sensors for automated control
- Vortex and channel impeller options
Ebara Sewage Pumps
Ebara offers a range of submersible and dry-pit sewage pump models, particularly suited for municipal and industrial use.
Why Ebara is trusted:
- High-performance stainless steel builds
- Excellent solid-handling capacity
- Wide availability of spare parts
Dab Sewage Pumps
Dab pumps are widely used in residential and light commercial sewage applications. They are compact, easy to install, and well-suited for South African households.
What sets Dab apart:
- Quiet, efficient operation
- Reliable motor protection systems
- Good value for smaller installations
Sewage Pumps for Residential Use
For sewage pumps residential buyers need, compact units with moderate flow and head ratings are ideal. These pumps are designed to manage household waste, especially where the home is below the municipal sewer line.
Considerations:
- Noise level
- Pumping distance
- Ease of installation
So, Which Sewage Pump Is Best?
The best sewage pump depends on your application.
Quick Guide - Sewage Pump Usage
| Application Type | Recommended Pump Type |
|---|---|
| Home or small office | Submersible or grinder pump |
| Industrial facility | Self-priming or dry-installed pump |
| Rural wastewater | Submersible sewage pump |
| Aeration or treatment | Sewage blower pump |
Sewage Pumps for Sale in
South Africa
There are a wide range of sewage pumps for sale across South Africa. When sourcing a pump, always check:
- Rated head and flow capacity
- Solids handling capability
- Power source (single-phase, three-phase, diesel)
- Warranty and after-sales support
Not sure which sewage pump to choose?
Please Contact us here for advice.
