Sanitary Sewer Lift Station Maintenance Tips

Performance of routine and preventative maintenance can save the on-site lift station owner from costly repair bills. The following are suggestions that may ensure fewer breakdowns and problems:

• Wet wells should be pumped out and cleaned at least twice a year, or more often if necessary, to prevent solids and grease build-up. Build-up of solids can create odors and damage the pump.
• Inspection of submersible pumps should be performed quarterly. Inspection of the impeller should be performed quarterly or when motor hours are not within 10% of each other. The inspections would assure that the impeller is free of debris.
• Inspection of the check valves should be performed at least twice a year to insure proper working order and to prevent backflow from the force main to the wet well.
• Cleaning and inspections of floats monthly will assure proper performance. The buildup of grease prevents floats from working properly.
• Inspection of the light and alarm systems should be performed weekly. An alarm system in working order can alert you to problems immediately.
• Installation of hour meters on each motor will give one an accurate record of how often each motor is cycling; and hence, the amount of water being pumped through the system. A logbook of motor hours, dates and maintenance performed must be kept.
• Amp readings should be taken at least once a month on each motor in the on-site lift station. If the amp readings do not meet the manufacturer's specifications, it is an indication that debris is lodged in the propeller within the motor, or that water has entered the motor housing or the wiring.
• A semi-annual inspection of all electrical motor control equipment to find poor connections and worn parts should be performed.