Common Sewage Pumping Station Problems

A sewage system is made up of a network of pipes that transport waste from a property to the main sewer. Usually, this happens through gravity, as the waste flows down into the sewer. However, when the property sits on lower ground and the mains sewer is higher than it, this usual method won’t work, which is where a sewage pumping station comes in.

What is a Sewage Pump Station?

The difference between the usual sewage system and having a pumping station is the wet well. This acts as a receiver for the sewage from a property, this is located lower than the house so any waste can flow into this due to gravity.  

The sewage will then stay in the well until it reaches a certain level, at this point, a pump kicks in allowing it to travel uphill, out of the well until it reaches a point where it can travel to the main sewer on its own.

Problems With a Sewage Pump Station

By nature, no matter how good your pumping system is, problems may occur, to reduces the chances of something serious happening, regular maintenance checks should be done. However, it is also good to be aware of some common problems that could arise, so you know what to look for.

Toilets Backing-Up

Even though pumps are made to minimise the risk of blockages, there is still potential for them to occur. Fats, oils, or any other waxy deposits that are flushed down the drain can solidify and clog up the pumping chambers. If this happens nothing will be able to get through, leading to toilets backing up. 

Usually, you will be able to smell sewage odour before the toilets start backing up if you do smell this, the best thing to do is call a professional immediately.

Pump Not Turning On

This can be caused by various things including debris jamming the impeller, the pump not getting enough electricity, a blockage in the pump which can mess up the electrics or the pump may just be broken.

Pump Not Turning Off

Usually, this will be due to the control float switch, sometimes it gets stuck in the wrong position causing the pump to stay switched on. If there is an unusual spike in your electricity bills, it could be a sign that your pump is not switching off.

Broken Pipes

There can be many signs that your pipes are broken including, your toilet backing up, mould problems, slow drains and foundation cracks. If you see any signs that your pipework may be broken it is best to contact a professional immediately because if you don’t catch it in the early stages it can be a very expensive repair job. Routine maintenance checks may help you avoid these problems as they can spot it before it gets too bad.

Alarms Sounding

If your pump station is fitted with an alarm it should sound whenever it detects a problem. This could include anything from high water levels to a malfunction, make sure to contact a professional immediately if you hear the alarm to reduce the risk of flooding.

Maintenance Checks For Your Pumping Station

Most issues spoken about are easily prevented through regular maintenance checks. They can keep everything working smoothly while also ensuring reliability, reduced operational costs and effectiveness. All components are checked during these checks as well as carrying out any minor damages so it doesn’t become more serious.

Although there are various things that can go wrong with sewage pumping stations, that doesn’t mean that they are bad to use, they are actually very beneficial and can provide a great solution to people who live in a lower levelled property. 

Speak To Our Sewage Pump Specialists

If you are worried that your sewage pumping system has any faults or you have decided to get a maintenance check then contact pumping solutions on 01775 711960 today.