Posted by Not every system requires a sewage lift station, but they are completely indispensable for those that do need them. These machines are essentially a housing for a motorized pump and associated components that propels sewage from the septic tank to the drainage field. These systems are installed when there isn’t a sufficient natural gradient for the flow of sewage to reach the drainage field on its own. Lack of proper maintenance and other factors can lead to lift station issues such as:
Broken Pump
Failure of the sewage ejector pump is perhaps the most serious problem that can affect your lift station. There are many different ways this can happen, but most of them trace back to one of three root causes: old age, insufficient maintenance or improper installation.
One of the reasons why lift station maintenance is so important is to check for early signs of problems before they cause an actual failure. Even a small issue left unchecked can put increasing strain on the machine until it breaks altogether. However, even a well-maintained system is still subject to deterioration over time and through constant use. Once a system has reached its project lifespan, it’s time to prepare yourself to replace it.
Misalignment and Detachment
Alignment is very important for the proper function of any kind of lift station or motor in general. If the motor or the machine overall becomes misaligned or detached from the other components, it may lead to a severe drop in efficiency or cause it to stop working altogether.
Any kind of change in the terrain or soil composition can contribute to this problem. Minor earthquakes, periods of extreme rainfall or manipulation of the terrain for nearby construction can all influence the lift station’s alignment. It’s important to address alignment issues as soon as possible, because allowing the machine to continue operating in these conditions can cause permanent damage to the entire system.
Component Corrosion
Even though lift stations are made from resistant materials, corrosion is still a threat. Internal corrosion happens due to constant exposure to the chemicals found in sewage as well as the pressure exerted on internal components by the motor. External corrosion results from exposure to moisture and chemicals leaching through the surrounding soil.
Pipe Breaks and Leaks
Crucial sewer lines and pipes connect the home’s sewer system to the lift station and then connect the lift station to the drainage area. Aside from motor problems, breaks or leaks in these pipes are among the most common and serious sewer issues. There are several ways this problem can manifest, ranging from liquid pooling at strange places on the property, foul smells or sewer backup.
Float and Alarm Failure
The receiving well of a lift station has a float that serves as a gauge to measure fullness. When it reaches a certain point, it triggers an alarm to alert owners of a potential problem. This helps prevent accidental overflows and keeps problems from going unchecked for too long. Alarms and float systems should be tested as part of your routine lift station cleaning and maintenance schedule.
Fast and Effective Lift Station Solutions in Las Vegas
As a professional sewer service provider in the area, Las Vegas Septic Service is standing by to offer exceptional services to all of our customers in the community. Whether you need grease trap cleaning, holding tank rentals or lift station pumping in Las Vegas, NV, we have the solutions you need.
We are proud to serve both residential and commercial concerns throughout our service area. This includes the city itself, as well as surrounding communities in Nevada including Henderson and North Las Vegas.