Butler Eagle file photo

BUTLER TWP — A new device used to plumb basements was approved by the Butler Area Sewer Authority.

Evan Oswald, superintendent of engineering services at BASA, told the board at its Tuesday meeting that ejector pumps are placed in basements that do not have a gravity sewer feed.

The ejector pumps would replace grinder pumps, which are larger and placed outside.

Ejector pumps would move effluence, washing machine drainage and other approved materials up to the first floor’s gravity connection, where it would then be conveyed to the sewer system.

The pump would be purchased, installed and serviced by a home’s builder or owner. Installation instructions will be added to BASA’s website, Oswald said.

They would be used only in homes where gravity service is impossible in the basement and that have gravity service on the first floor, he said.

Paul Sybert, board president, asked Oswald if the new devices would pass home inspections.

Oswald replied that as long as no illegal connections, such as downspouts or interior French drains, were found, the ejector pumps would pass inspection.

He said ejector pumps have been approved by the universal plumbing code as well.

Oswald said he has been asked by people building homes if ejector pumps can be used, and he cannot give them a reason why not.

The board voted unanimously to amend the authority’s rules and regulations to include the new pumps.

Duane McKee, authority director, said the pumps would mainly be used in new construction.