A drainage pump moves dirty water with light solids such as sand and silt; a sewage cutter pump adds a cutting mechanism that shreds fibrous solids like wipes, rags and paper. Use a drainage pump for rain, ground and wash water, and a cutter pump for sewage.
| Feature | Drainage pump | Sewage cutter pump |
|---|---|---|
| Designed for | Rain, ground and wash-down water | Domestic and commercial sewage |
| Solids handling | Light solids (sand, silt, small particles) | Fibrous solids (cut before pumping) |
| Cutting mechanism | No | Yes |
| Blockage risk with wipes / rags | High | Low |
| Discharge pipe size | Medium–large | Small bore possible |
| Power options at Alden | 3–15 hp, 3-phase (DSP) | 1–3 hp, single-phase (DSP cutter) |
| Typical places | Basements, sumps, construction pits | Villa septic tanks, kitchens, below-sewer toilets |
| Typical cost | Lower | Higher |
Quick decision guide
- Is the liquid sewage or kitchen waste? → Cutter pump.
- Is it rain, groundwater or wash-down water? → Drainage pump.
- Do you have only single-phase power and small flow? → Single-phase cutter.
- Do you need high flow and have 3-phase power? → 3-phase drainage.
- Both sewage and high flow? → ask us for a larger sewage solution.
The costly mistake
Many villa pits are fitted with a plain drainage pump to save money. Within months wipes and fibres twist around the impeller and the pump overheats or stops. Choosing the right pump from the start avoids repeat call-outs.
See the sewage cutter range or the 3-phase drainage range.
Frequently asked questions
Can a drainage pump handle sewage?
A plain drainage pump is not designed for sewage with fibres and paper and may clog. Use a sewage cutter pump for toilets, kitchens and septic tanks.
What is a vortex pump?
A vortex (free-flow) pump passes large solids by recirculating them in the casing rather than through the impeller; a cutter pump chops them first. Both are used for sewage.
Which is cheaper?
Drainage pumps are generally lower cost; cutter pumps cost more because of the cutting mechanism.
Can I use a cutter pump for clean water?
Yes, but a cutter pump is overkill for clean water. A pond or drainage pump is more economical.