The 4/10 HP Model M264 automatic Sewage Pump is designed to remove sewage from sewage ejector applications. This corrosion resistant pump will provide the dependability expected from a Zoeller pump. Backed by a 3-year warranty, every pump is submerged in water and tested to its published performance curve, ensuring it meets your expectations and delivers peace of mind right-out-of-the-box.
PRODUCT DETAILS
Our Model M264 Sewage Pump with a is designed to remove raw sewage and wastewater in sewage ejector applications. The professional-grade, 4/10 HP 264 is a proven and economical sewage pump. Known as the “Waste-Mate,” the M264 is a fully automatic float-operated sewage pump. The white polypropylene float is solid so it cannot become waterlogged. This ensures that it is always buoyant and able to turn the pump on when necessary.
The pump’s engineered plastic vortex impeller allows it to pass 2″ spherical solids. The impeller’s smooth surface and clearance in relation to the pump housing allows water and solids to pass freely through the pump. This combination of features lessens the chance of clogging and downtime.
The Model 264’s switch case, motor housing, and pump housing are each constructed of cast iron. The pump’s identification tag, float guard, handle, switch arm, and hardware are made of non-corrodible stainless steel. This attention to detail ensures that the Model 264 is able to withstand the demands of residential sewage ejector applications.
FEATURES AND BENEFITS
- Oil-filled motor and cast iron motor housing for optimal heat dissipation which prevents the pump from overheating
- Automatic pump with a time-tested, reliable, preset, built-in snap action switch that makes for easy installation
- Corrosion resistant engineered plastic vortex impeller to allow free passage of 2" spherical solids which prevents clogging and increases reliability
- Stainless steel float guard that prevents material and other solids in the waste stream from collecting on the float ensuring proper operation every time
- Solid, buoyant, polypropylene float to eliminate the possibility of water infiltration allowing the float to remain buoyant and functional at all times
- Powder-coated epoxy finish provides corrosion-resistance and extends the life of the pump in harsh environments
- Stainless steel screws, switch arm, guard, handle and hardware to prevent rust and corrosion over the life of the pump
- 100% Factory Tested - every pump is submerged in water and tested at the factory to ensure that it performs as expected right out of the box
- Comes with a 3-year limited warranty giving you protection over your investment and the peace of mind you expect in a quality product
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Weight:
35.5 lbs
Dimensions:
Height 16 1/4 in x Width 11 in x Length 13 1/2 in.
Horsepower:
4/10 HP
Voltage:
115 V
Phase:
1 Ph
Amps:
9.4
Hertz:
60 Hz
RPM:
1725
Discharge:
2" NPT
Solids Handling:
2” (50 mm) spherical solids
On/Off Points:
12-1/2" (31.8 cm) / 4-1/2" (11.4 cm)
Impeller Material:
Engineered plastic
Impeller Type:
Vortex
Cord Length:
10' (3.1 m)
Understanding Ejector Pumps vs. Sump Pumps: A Critical Distinction
Not the Same Job as a Sump Pump
It's worth being explicit about this: an ejector pump handles raw sewage and wastewater — from a below-grade toilet, sink, or laundry drain — while a sump pump (like the M53 or M98) only handles clear groundwater. Using the wrong type of pump for the wrong application is both a code violation and a functional failure waiting to happen — sump pumps aren't designed to pass solid waste, and installing one in a sewage application will quickly clog or fail. The M264 is specifically engineered for the sewage ejector role.
Why 2" Solids Handling Is the Key Spec Here
The M264's ability to pass 2" (50mm) spherical solids — compared to a sump pump's typical 1/2" solids handling — is the single most important distinction between the two pump categories. Toilet waste and other solid material require this larger clearance to pass through the impeller and discharge line without clogging, which is why ejector pumps are built with a fundamentally different impeller and housing design than sump pumps, even though they may look superficially similar.
When You Need a Sewage Ejector System
An ejector pump system is required whenever plumbing fixtures — a bathroom, laundry room, or wet bar — are installed below the level of your home's main sewer line, most commonly in finished basements. Since gravity can't carry wastewater uphill to the sewer connection, the ejector pump collects wastewater in a sealed basin and actively pumps it up and out to the sewer line or septic system.
Why the Basin Must Be Sealed
Unlike an open sump pit, a sewage ejector basin is fully sealed and vented, which is essential for two reasons: it contains sewage odors that would otherwise be a serious air quality issue, and it maintains the negative pressure venting required by plumbing code to allow the system to function safely and legally. This is a meaningfully more involved installation than a simple sump pump, requiring correct basin sizing, vent piping, and check valve installation.
Higher On/Off Points: Why It Matters for Basement Fixtures
The M264's 12-1/2" on / 4-1/2" off float points are considerably higher than a typical sump pump's range, reflecting the larger basin volume needed to hold wastewater from multiple fixture uses (a full toilet flush, a load of laundry) before the pump needs to cycle — reducing how frequently the motor activates and extending its operational life.
Shared Zoeller Build Quality
Like the sump pump line, the M264 benefits from:
- Cast iron construction for superior heat dissipation and motor longevity
- Corrosion-resistant vortex impeller allowing solids to pass without clogging
- Stainless steel hardware throughout for long-term durability
- 100% factory water testing before shipment
- 3-year limited warranty
Is 4/10 HP Enough for Your Application?
The M264 is well suited to typical residential sewage ejector applications — a single bathroom, laundry room, or wet bar below grade. Homes with higher-demand applications (multiple bathrooms, higher fixture count, or greater discharge distance/elevation) may require a higher-capacity model like the Zoeller M267 (1/2 HP) — our technicians can evaluate your specific fixture count and discharge requirements.
Professional Installation Is Essential
Because sewage ejector systems involve sealed basin sizing, venting, code compliance, and sanitary considerations well beyond a standard sump pump install, professional installation isn't optional — it's a plumbing code requirement in most jurisdictions. Our licensed plumbers will:
- Size the sealed basin correctly for your fixture load
- Install proper venting per plumbing code to prevent sewer gas issues
- Connect discharge piping with an appropriate check valve to prevent backflow
- Complete code-compliant electrical connection
- Test system operation across a full fixture use cycle
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a sump pump instead of an ejector pump to save money?
No — sump pumps aren't designed to handle solid waste and will clog or fail quickly if used for sewage; this also typically violates plumbing code, since ejector pump systems require specific sealed basin and venting requirements sump pump installations don't have.
How do I know if my basement bathroom needs an ejector pump?
Any fixture installed below your home's main sewer line elevation — which is common in basement bathrooms, laundry rooms, or wet bars — needs an ejector pump system, since gravity alone can't move wastewater uphill to the sewer connection.
How often does the ejector pump basin need servicing?
Annual inspection is recommended to check the float switch, check valve, and venting, catching wear before it leads to a sewage backup — a more serious failure mode than a sump pump issue given what the system handles.
Heavy-Duty Cast Iron Reliability: The Ultimate Solution for Basement Bathrooms & Sewage Ejector Pits
The Zoeller Waste-Flow Model 264 (0.4 HP) Sewage Ejector Pump is engineered specifically for reliable, heavy-duty removal of raw sewage, effluent, and wastewater from basement bathrooms, laundry rooms, and wet bars where gravity drainage is unavailable. Because basement plumbing fixtures sit below the main sewer line level, a failing or weak ejector pump can lead to catastrophic sewage backups. The Zoeller M264 eliminates this risk with its rugged, corrosion-resistant cast iron housing, non-clogging vortex impeller, and a powerful 0.4 HP motor capable of passing 2-inch spherical solids with ease. Whether you need an emergency sewage pump replacement or are installing a brand-new basement bathroom, our certified plumbing specialists deliver prompt, professional results. Call our expert team today at (224) 754-1984 for fast 24/7 emergency service, basin cleaning, or professional ejector pump installation:
Heavy-Duty Cast Iron Construction: Robust cast iron motor housing, pump base, and switch case dissipate heat efficiently and ensure lifetime mechanical durability.
Powerful 0.4 HP Non-Clogging Motor: Engineered with a high-torque permanent split capacitor (PSC) motor designed for continuous underwater operation.
Superior 2-Inch Solids Handling: Features a vortex impeller capable of passing up to 2-inch spherical solids and fibrous waste without clogging or jamming.
Hermetically Sealed Design: Oil-filled, permanently lubricated motor protected against thermal overload and moisture intrusion for ultimate peace of mind.
Reliable Mechanical Float Switch: Equipped with a dependable snap-action float switch to ensure automatic, trouble-free cycling inside sealed sewage basins.
Zoeller M264 Technical Specifications & Performance
Engineered for professional installation in residential sewage basins and effluent pits:
Technical Parameter Feature & Specification Details Operational Advantage Manufacturer & Model Zoeller Waste-Flow M264 Submersible Sewage Pump Industry-leading residential cast iron sewage ejector pump. Motor Horsepower 0.4 HP Permanent Split Capacitor (PSC) motor Delivers reliable high-torque pumping power for waste evacuation. Discharge Size & Flow 2" NPT Discharge (Up to 128 GPM peak capacity) Rapid wastewater evacuation matching standard home sewage requirements. Body Material Heavy-duty Cast Iron motor housing, pump housing, and cover Provides maximum structural weight and corrosion resistance underground. Solids Handling Capable of passing 2-inch spherical solids Prevents clogging from toilet paper, waste, and debris. Electrical Requirements 115V / 60 Hz (Standard 3-prong grounded plug) Easy plug-and-play integration into dedicated basement basin circuits.
Key Benefits of Upgrading to a Zoeller M264 Sewage Pump
Integrating a Zoeller M264 cast iron sewage ejector pump into your basement plumbing infrastructure delivers immediate practical protection rewards:
Prevents Catastrophic Sewage Backups: Reliable pumping power ensures wastewater from basement toilets, showers, and sinks is safely elevated to the main sewer line without overflow.
Exceptional Long-Term Durability: While lightweight plastic sewage pumps frequently fail under heavy loads, the solid cast iron Zoeller M264 operates reliably for 10 to 15+ years.
Quiet, Sealed Operation: Installed inside a sealed, gas-tight sewage basin with a proper vent pipe, operating completely odor-free beneath your basement floor.
Peace of Mind for Basement Living: Total confidence when using basement bathrooms, laundry facilities, or wet bars during heavy household use.
Our Step-by-Step Zoeller M264 Installation Process
Basin Inspection & Safety Prep: Safely shutting off power, inspecting the sealed sewage basin, and preparing sanitary containment protocols.
Old Pump Extraction & Cleanup: Removing the failed sewage pump, draining legacy piping, and thoroughly cleaning accumulated sludge and debris from the basin.
Zoeller M264 Placement & Leveling: Lowering the heavy cast iron M264 into the basin, ensuring the float switch moves freely without hitting basin walls or piping.
Discharge Piping & Full-Flow Check Valve Hookup: Connecting 2-inch PVC discharge piping alongside a heavy-duty sewage check valve to prevent backflow into the basin.
System Commissioning & Gas-Tight Sealing: Testing electrical float activation, verifying pumping volume, and securing the sealed basin cover to guarantee zero sewer gas leaks.
Frequently Asked Questions: Zoeller M264 Sewage Pump
Q: What is the difference between a sump pump and a sewage ejector pump like the Zoeller M264?
A: A sump pump only handles clean groundwater from around your foundation. A sewage ejector pump is designed to handle raw sewage, solid waste, and wastewater from below-grade basement toilets and bathrooms, featuring a larger 2-inch discharge and solids-handling capability.
Q: What size solids can the Zoeller M264 pass?
A: The Zoeller M264 is engineered with a non-clogging vortex impeller capable of passing spherical solids up to 2 inches in diameter without jamming.
Q: How long does a Zoeller sewage pump typically last?
A: With normal residential usage and proper maintenance, a Zoeller cast iron sewage pump generally lasts between 10 to 15 years.
Q: What should I do if my sewage ejector pump is running constantly or tripping the breaker?
A: Continuous running or a tripped breaker usually indicates a stuck float switch, a jammed impeller from non-flushable items, or a failing motor winding. Unplug the unit immediately if safe and call our 24/7 emergency plumbing team to resolve the issue before a backup occurs.
Founded in the family basement in 1939, Zoeller Pump Company is one of the oldest family-owned water pump manufacturers in North America. Headquartered in Louisville, KY, we proudly excel with fourth-generation leadership and an expanding workforce.
Over the past seven decades, Zoeller Pump Company has established itself as a dependable leader in the wastewater industry. Through continuous research and development, we are always improving our products and processes to provide the highest possible quality to our loyal customers and end users.
This dependability is backed by a family commitment to add value for our customers and provide genuine support before, during, and after a sal
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