Lift station pumps are used to move wastewater from the septic tank into the drain field for the system. In and around Philadelphia, PA, these systems are often in rural and outlying areas, but they can also be found in older homes in suburban areas of the city. They can also be found in commercial applications and are used to move wastewater and raw sewage from lower to higher elevations in the system.
The sewage would not move through the system without a lift station pump, resulting in backups and efficiency problems. As lift stations are used to move wastewater and sewage, they must be designed to handle this type of water, including the slurry or solid materials found within the liquid.
Signs of Problems
There are a few signs homeowners or commercial business owners should watch for that indicate they need lift station pump repair. A significant problem is the backup of wastewater into fixtures in the home or business. There is also a slowdown in the ability to empty drains or flush toilets, with this often occurring prior to the backup.
Motor Failure
Depending on the age of the lift station pump and the amount of wastewater produced in the system, the life cycle of the motor can vary. Typically, these motors last about two decades. When the motor fails, wastewater is not pumped out of the tank, resulting in backups. In some cases, lift station pump repair may be a more cost-effective option than replacing the pump. However, a new pump may be the better option if the current pump is old.
Shifting of Pipes
Natural shifting of the soil in and around the tank and lift station pump can occur on any property in Philadelphia, PA. When this happens, the pipes can crack and the pump can become misaligned, resulting in wear and tear on pump components. Repairing or replacing the pump and correcting the system alignment will be required.
