Many times, contractors will request a “Trash Pump”. Trash pumps, and in particular, centrifugal trash pumps come in many types and variations. Other names for this “Trash Pump” may be Non-Clog or Solids Handling, among others. Different styles can be Self Priming, Compressor Assist Prime, Vacuum Assist Prime, or Submersible. Common to all the different pumps is the ability of the pump end to handle effluent laden with solids (Trash). This is typically referred to the “Solids Handling Capability” and is normally referring to a spherical or round solid, the size of which is dependent upon the pump. This type of pump has become much more efficient with the introduction of the non-clog Impeller; however, the name is deceiving as all pumps will clog or plug up, if a large enough solid is inadvertently pulled into the pump. To resolve this problem, most Trash pumps will have a clean-out plate which allows removal of debris. Some inspection plates can serve as a cleanout, but may not allow for removal of debris, as these plates are typically on the discharge side of the impeller. If the impeller is already plugged up, then the debris plugging the pump is very likely too large to pass through (hence the reason for the failure in the pump). A Contractor friendly design is one in which this cleanout is possible from the suction side of the impeller, eliminating the need to remove the suction line, as this can lead to an unnecessary spill or extra work…full story.