What is a Lift Station?

A lift station, also known as a wastewater pumping station, is a facility that uses pumps to transport wastewater from a lower elevation to a higher elevation. This is crucial in areas where gravity flow isn't feasible due to:

• Low-lying areas: Buildings in valleys or at the bottom of hills require wastewater to be lifted uphill before joining the main sewer system.
• Excessive digging costs: Digging deep trenches for sewer pipes in hilly areas can be expensive and impractical. Lift stations offer a cost-effective alternative.
• Blockages or other flow issues: Lift stations can be used to overcome obstacles like hills or clogged pipes, ensuring smooth wastewater flow.

How Does a Lift Station Work?

1. Wastewater enters a wet well: A deep underground tank collects wastewater from homes and businesses.
2. Level sensors activate pumps: As the wet well fills, sensors trigger powerful pumps.
3. Wastewater is pumped upward: Pumps push the wastewater through a force main, a pipe specifically designed for high-pressure flow.
4. Gravity takes over: Once reaching higher ground, the wastewater continues its journey to a treatment plant via gravity flow.

Benefits of Lift Stations in Sewerage Systems:

• Cost-effective: Compared to extensive deep trench digging, lift stations are often cheaper to install and maintain.
• Flexibility: They can be placed strategically to overcome various terrain challenges.
• Increased efficiency: Lift stations ensure consistent flow even in low-lying areas.
• Reduced risk of overflows: Proper functioning prevents backups and sewage spills.

Types of Lift Stations:

• Wet well: In wet well lift stations, pumps are submerged in the wastewater (common in smaller stations).
• Dry well: In dry well lift stations, pumps are housed in a separate, dry chamber for easier maintenance.
• Package lift stations: These are pre-fabricated, compact units ideal for smaller applications.

How Long Does a Lift Station Last?

With proper maintenance, a lift station can last for 15-20 years. Regular inspections, cleaning, and pump replacements are key to longevity. Lift station installation and septic tank installation should be left to a trusted septic company.

Signs of a Malfunctioning Lift Station:

• Foul odors
• Sewage backups in drains
• Alarm activation (if the station has an alarm system)
• Increased noise from the station

If you suspect a malfunctioning lift station, be sure to contact a professional septic company like Rooter Man Plumbing. Our technicians have the expertise and equipment to diagnose and fix any issues, ensuring your sewage system continues to function efficiently. In addition to lift station repair, our technicians offer comprehensive septic services, including septic tank installation, septic tank cleaning, and many more. We are the go-to septic company for all of your septic service needs.

Contact Rooter Man Plumbing today to schedule a septic service appointment.