When we talk about waste, I consider that hair falls into this category as well. Also, thick liquids. After the first use I made in my septic tank, at some point the pump stopped working. The cause was female hair and the thick liquid that exists in the lower layers of the septic tank. I don't think a sewage pump has a problem with hair since there is a cutter. Anyway, I believe that the pump is only suitable for water and a few sludges. Moreover, the manufacturer refers to it as a water pump. I regret this purchase.