Grinder Pumps

A grinder pump may be required when a home is in an area of limited elevation.

A grinder pump plays an important role in moving wastewater properly and efficiently into the main sewer system. Sewage grinder pumps take the solids and liquids from the home and grind it up so that it can be pumped into the main sewer pipes that lead to a wastewater treatment facility.

The County of Brant has established a Grinder Pump Policy (PDF) for properties that require a Grinder Pump due to the County’s selected mainline sewer servicing method. Examples: low pressure sewer or shallower sewer.

The policy outlines the County and property owner's responsibilities for the installation and maintenance of the grinder pump.

Approved installation and maintenance contractors

Only County-approved contractors are allowed to install and maintain grinder pumps (in accordance with the policy).

Approved installation contractors

Approved maintenance contractors

Want to be an approved contractor?

• Installation contractors can be added to the list by satisfying the requirements outlined in the Request for Contractor Qualification for Grinder Pump Installations (PDF)
• Maintenance contractors can be added to the list by satisfying the requirements outlined in the Request for Contractor Qualification for Grinder Pump Package Maintenance Services (PDF)

Why do I have a grinder pump?

A home requires a grinder pump because it's situated lower than the main sewage system pipes. Wastewater travels through the pipes by gravity. If the house is at the bottom of a hill, for example, there is no gravity to help push the wastewater through the pipes.

What do I need to know?

Do not put the following items down the drain, sink, or toilet:

• Bulky food
• Grease, cooking oil, or hazardous chemicals
• Metal, glass, cloths, napkins, or rags
• Feminine products
• Diapers
• Hair clippings or clumps
• Sand or cat litter

It is always best practice to never put anything other than dirty water down the drain or toilet. If you have a grinder pump and you put any of the above items into your sewer system, you risk damaging the pump or flooding your sewage system.