How Much Does a Sewer Ejector Pump Cost in 2025?

This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

An ejector pump replacement costs between $850 and $3,500, with most homeowners paying an average of $2,300. If you have a basement bathroom or laundry room below the main sewer line, an ejector pump is essential to move wastewater upward. Having a professional plumber replace a faulty ejector pump promptly ensures your plumbing operates smoothly and prevents messy and costly issues down the line.

Ejector Pump Installation Cost Factors

In addition to the cost of the pump itself, several factors can influence the total installation cost, such as installation complexity and additional components. Ongoing expenses like maintenance and operating costs should also be considered when budgeting for an ejector pump replacement.

According to Jeff Botelho, Expert Review Board Member and licensed journeyman plumber, "If space is limited or you wish to avoid the expense of digging a pit and underground plumbing, consider systems that utilize a compact pump—often installed onto the back of a toilet. These can handle waste from an entire bathroom and discharge through small pipes (1-inch diameter or smaller). While the fixtures themselves may be costly, the labor to install these systems is significantly less than that of a traditional ejector pump installation."

In addition to the installation of the pump, several other factors can influence the total project cost, including additional components and complexity. It's also important to consider the ongoing costs of operating and maintaining the pump. Planning ahead and understanding these costs can help you budget effectively for your ejector pump installation.

Materials

Ejector pumps range from $150 for basic plastic models to $2,000 for high-end cast-iron units. Plastic pumps are the most affordable but may be less durable, while cast-iron pumps offer superior strength and longevity.

Pump Capacity

The pump's capacity, measured in gallons per minute (GPM) or gallons per hour (GPH), significantly affects its cost—the higher the capacity, the higher the price. Selecting the appropriate capacity ensures your pump can effectively handle your home's wastewater needs.

The maximum flow rate (the horsepower) you need is based on several factors, including how far below the main sewer line your plumbing is. You'll need higher horsepower (and maximum GPM) further below the communal sewer line, since the pump needs to work harder to push the wastewater and soft solids up to the communal line.

Labor

Ejector pump installation costs $650 to $1,200 for a standard replacement. You'll need to hire a local plumber to install an ejector pump. Plumbers cost $45 to $200 per hour.

More complex fixes, such as the replacement of the entire ejector pump system—including digging a new pit—cost between $2,500 and $3,100.

Installing a Backup Pump

Installing a battery-powered backup ejector pump, which costs an average of $600 including parts and labor, is a wise choice if you live in an area susceptible to power outages. A backup pump ensures your plumbing continues to function during outages, preventing potential sewage backups and overflows in your basement.

Cost of Tank Cleaning

The cost of pumping a sewage tank falls between $290 and $560. If the tank is particularly dirty, you may have to pay extra for tank pumping or cleaning.

Pump Operating Costs

On average, plan to spend $30 to $60 per month to run the pump. Running costs vary based on the price of utilities in your area and how much wastewater and soft solids your pump has to handle.

MaintenanceCosts

It’s a good idea to have a plumber inspect your pump system at least once per year, and this type of inspection costs between $100 and $200. However, you might be able to get maximum value for your money by getting a whole-home plumbing inspection package.

You'll also need to budget for any repairs, which cost $45 to $200 per hour in labor costs when you hire a plumber. To avoid the risk of breakdowns and costly repairs, be vigilant about what you flush. Avoid flushing hard solids, feminine hygiene products, and any wipes, which all put extra strain on the motor and can clog and break the pump.

DIY vs. Hiring a Sewage System Pro

Installing a sewage ejector pump is a complex task that is best left to professionals. Even experienced DIYers should hire a qualified plumber to ensure proper installation. Incorrect installation can lead to sewage backups, overflows, and costly repairs. Hiring a professional protects your home and ensures the ejector pump operates correctly.

Investing in professional installation ultimately safeguards your home and provides peace of mind.

How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data

No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.