As with most machines, lift stations don’t get much thought-;until they quit working. A lift station is a crucial part of a home’s drainage and sewer system, and it’s hard to imagine what could happen if they didn’t exist. In this guide, homeowners will gain a basic understanding of the way lift stations work, and they will also get some suggestions on Residential Lift Station Repair in Magnolia TX.
Design
There are two main parts to a lift station: the controls and the wet well. The latter is a basin that receives inflow, and it’s where the pumps are located. Most wet wells are made of fiberglass or concrete, and each pump has a check valve and a shutoff valve that allows water into the outflow.
Parts
The check valves in the wet well stop materials from flowing backward after the pumps shut off, and the shutoff valve allows each pump to be isolated. Most lift stations have a level sensing part in the fomr of a float switch or a transducer; some lift stations have both. The controls are the brains of the operation; they contain circuit breakers, overloads, starters, software and communications devices (if applicable).
Recommendations for Maintenance
The electrical parts and pumps are under constant strain, and need frequent upkeep to work effectively. However, there’s always a point where it makes more sense to rebuild or replace these parts, with the average lifespan being about 15-25 years. Preventive maintenance can save homeowners from costly bills, as shown below:
* Get the wet wells pumped and cleaned twice per year to prevent buildup.
* Get pumps inspected every three months, to assure that impellers are debris-free.
* Inspection of check valves should be done at least twice per year to prevent backflow from getting into the wet well.
* Electrical motors should be inspected twice per year for worn parts and poor connections.
* Basins, cleanouts and covers should be inspected periodically to prevent buildup. Moving parts should be greased to ensure proper operation.
Residential Lift Station Repair in Magnolia TX can make it easier for a homeowner to maintain a lift station, and it can make it easier for pros to find the source of a problem. When systems are well-maintained by website domain, they last longer and work more efficiently. You can also visit their Facebook page for more information.