Sewage lift stations are critical components of wastewater systems, but all too often, maintenance is an afterthought until something like the lift station pump fails. Regular maintenance from experienced technicians prevents wear and tear that can lead to catastrophic failure and prolongs the system’s lifespan. Below, we answer the question “what are lift stations?” and offer tips on how to keep them running.
What Are Lift Stations, and Why Are They so Important?
A wastewater lift station, or pump station, helps move wastewater out of your property by pumping it to a higher elevation. These systems are especially common in Florida, where low-lying areas often prevent sewage flow to wastewater treatment plants. Lifting the sewage to a higher elevation allows it to continue flowing to the plant using gravity.
How to Proactively Maintain Wastewater Lift Stations
Being proactive is the best way to prolong the lifespan of any lift station system. Becoming familiar with the manufacturer’s operations manual and following the recommended service and maintenance guidelines increase the likelihood of trouble-free operation for the life of the equipment. Most lift station pump systems last 15 to 20 years with regular maintenance.
Some of the points to know about your system include:
- Maintenance service intervals: Some systems recommend maintenance based on calendar time, while others base service intervals on operation time.
- Part recommendations: Some systems only require regular adjustments for parts, while others require part replacement at specific intervals.
- System-specific requirements: Not all systems are identical and may require different maintenance tasks.
Reviewing the operations manual, scheduling maintenance at the required intervals, and adhering to the manufacturer’s instructions are the best ways to preserve the life of your pump station system.
Tracking Motor Hours
Installing an hour meter on each lift station motor is an effective way to keep track of the system’s running time and know when to schedule maintenance. Knowing the number of hours the pump runs and when can help prevent breakdowns and sewage leaks and make it easier to identify issues. A lift station that shows a sudden increase in running hours may have an issue that requires professional attention, and prompt attention can prevent a more significant problem.
Plan for Upgrades
Even though pump station systems last for decades, technology is constantly evolving and improving. Older equipment like submersible pumps or electronic controls may not be as efficient or effective as newer components, and replacing them with upgraded parts can result in more cost-effective and reliable operation. Be proactive about installing new technology to support better long-term functionality.
Schedule Annual Cleaning and Maintenance
If your lift station pump system needs an annual cleaning or you need help with maintenance, rely on the local experts from South Florida Lift Stations Inc. Our experienced team is well-known for attention to detail when inspecting, cleaning, and maintaining complex lift stations, and can help you prolong the life of your system. Call our Ft. Myers office at (239) 332-0041 today to schedule service.
