It’s something you probably don’t want to think about as a business manager: going about your day, then suddenly, you’re hit with a foul odor wafting through your establishment. Or worse, sewage starts backing up into your property. These nightmare scenarios are all too real when your commercial lift station encounters problems.
Commercial lift stations are the unsung heroes of many businesses in Portland, quietly managing wastewater flow day in and day out. However, when the following issues arise, they can quickly become a major headache:
- Detached, faulty, or failed pump
- Leakage in the system
- Float switch or control panel failure
- Environmental challenges (heavy rainfall, flooding, etc.)
- Regulatory changes and compliance (EPA, DEQ, etc)
They can lead to costly downtime, property damage, health hazards, and a tarnished reputation. No one wants to deal with sewage backups or explain to customers why there’s an unbearable smell in the air.
Speedy Septic’s proactive approach to lift station maintenance and repair services means we catch issues before they become catastrophes. Many business owners attempt to ignore these signs or apply quick fixes that don’t address the root cause. This band-aid approach often leads to more severe issues down the line.
6 Signs of Commercial Lift Station Problems
Don’t wait for a full-blown crisis to address lift station issues. Being aware of the warning signs can save you time, money, and a whole lot of headaches. Here are some red flags to watch out for:
- Alarm system sounding off
- Pump not activating when it should
- Slow drainage throughout your property
- Unpleasant odors emanating from drains or the lift station area
- Sewage backups
- Strange noises coming from the lift station
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Lift Station Troubleshooting
While it’s always best to call in the professionals for lift station issues, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take to potentially identify the problem:
- Look at the control panel for any error messages or flashing/red lights.
- Look for visible signs of damage or wear on external components.
- Monitor the water level in the wet well to see if it’s rising abnormally.
- Listen for unusual noises when the pump is running.
DIY fixes can sometimes exacerbate the problem or create new ones. A team of trained septic professionals can quickly and safely diagnose and resolve lift station issues, saving you time and preventing potential injuries or further damage.
Commercial Lift Station FAQs
Let’s address some common questions about commercial lift station problems to help you better understand and manage your system.
What Causes a Lift Station to Fail?
Lift stations typically fail due to a combination of factors, including wear and tear, electrical issues, clogs, part malfunctions, or overdue maintenance.
You’ll know if your lift station is failing if you notice unusual noises (like grinding, rattling, or humming), reduced flow (or no flow at all), or a burning smell coming from the pump area.
What Is the Life Expectancy of a Lift Station Pump?
By following good maintenance practices, you should get a total life expectancy of about 15 to 20 years from your lift station pump. However, this can vary significantly depending on maintenance, amount of use, your location, etc. To ensure your lift station pump reaches its full potential life expectancy, it will need to be rebuilt every three to five years.
How Often Should a Lift Station be Serviced?
You should have your lift station serviced two to four times per year, with monthly or quarterly inspections recommended for high-use systems or those in challenging environments. For many businesses, it’s easy to put off regular servicing, thinking it’s an unnecessary expense. However, neglecting maintenance often leads to more frequent breakdowns and costly emergency repairs.
Speedy Septic’s comprehensive maintenance plans are designed to fit your schedule and budget so your lift station remains in top condition year-round. We prioritize preventative care to minimize disruptions to your business and extend the life of your system.
Keep Your Lift Station Running All Year-Round
When it comes to commercial lift station problems, you need a partner you can trust. With over 40 years of experience serving businesses throughout Portland, we at Speedy Septic understand the unique challenges you face and the importance of keeping your lift station running smoothly.
Some companies might offer quick fixes or band-aid solutions, leaving you vulnerable to recurring problems. Others might not be available when you need them most, forcing you to deal with sewage backups or environmental hazards on your own. At Speedy Septic, we take a different approach.
Our proactive maintenance plans are designed to catch potential issues before they become major headaches. We’ll work with you to create a customized maintenance schedule that fits your needs and budget, helping to extend the life of your lift station and minimize unexpected downtime. We also offer year-round remote leak protection, so you’re never caught by surprise.
Don’t let lift station problems sink your business. Reach out to us today for a service quote and take the first step towards worry-free lift station operation.
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