Do you know what the average sewage treatment system looks like, what it does, or what can go wrong with it? This system is a multi-step process with many components, including motors, pumps, and electricity, all of which work together to manage and remove wastewater. All of these components make up your average wastewater lift station in Houston. Because there are many components carrying bacteria-ridden wastewater up to higher elevations, it’s important to be aware of a proper maintenance schedule, pre-empting many problems that can occur in a wastewater lift station in Houston.
What is a Wastewater Lift Station?
A common perception of a sewage system is a network of underground pipes constantly pumping wastewater and sewage from one place to another, treated with chemicals and filters, and eventually recycled. A lift station manages wastewater and sewage in a different way, pumping sewage from a lower elevation to a higher elevation where it is more efficient to simply use gravity to collect the waste.
A wastewater lift station in Houston uses a basic set of components to move wastewater. The wastewater flows down chutes (called gravity pipes) to a reservoir equipped with several submersible (sump) pumps. The pumps have level sensors that will cause the pumps to kick in if the wastewater reaches a specific level, after which it is power pumped upward through pipes equipped with several valves.
What Can Go Wrong with a Wastewater Lift Station in Houston?
There are countless things prone to going wrong, and a typical wastewater lift station in Houston is no different. Because sewage and wastewater are corrosive and full of solid materials, components not regularly cleaned and maintained are bound to sustain costly irreparable damage given enough time, requiring replacement of expensive components. Components that require professional maintenance include:
Wet Wells
These are the large reservoirs where sewage and wastewater sit. Over time, materials such as oils and greases can build up on surfaces, causing putrid odors and toxic sewer gases. It is recommended that wet wells be pumped and cleaned at least twice a year, or more often as is necessary.
Submersible Pumps
Submersible pumps physically push the sewage and wastewater upward, and a wastewater lift station in Houston can be equipped with several. These pumps can be prone to clogging, causing either excessive back pressure and possible pump failure, or excessive vacuum pressure, damaging the pump chambers. Solid waste can also damage the impeller.
Valves
A wastewater lift station in Houston is also equipped with several valves of different types to direct flow. These valves are prone to having solid contaminants become lodged, causing them to work improperly. Check valves are especially vulnerable, and can be lodged open by debris, causing backflow to the pump. Valves should be checked at least twice annually.
Electrical Controls
Every wastewater lift station in Houston is equipped with a central powered control system. This is what monitors things like pressure and signals all electrical components of the system to kick in if they’re prompted. These will be equipped with an alarm system to alert for problems, which should be tested weekly.
Wastewater Lift Station Cleaning & Maintenance
It’s important for commercial facilities – particularly large ones like warehouses – to be regularly inspected and maintained by professionals. Preventing the many catastrophes that could happen to a wastewater lift station in Houston is as easy as keeping a maintenance schedule with a lift station cleaning service.
This is where Drane Ranger comes in. We can service your wastewater lift station in Houston and surrounding areas, providing thorough inspections of your valves, pipes, pumps, and all other functioning parts to ensure smooth flow and effortless functioning. Having us come in for routine inspections will save you downtime, replacement costs, and stress. We also guarantee safe disposal of sewage and related materials. Get in contact with us today to learn more about how we can help you keep your wastewater lift station in Houston cleaned and maintained.
Service Area: We provide lift station cleaning, repair, and wet well maintenance service in the following cities and counties in Texas:
Cities: Houston, Alvin, League City, Manvel, Rosharon, Angleton, Friendswood, Pearland, Sugar Land, Texas City
Counties: Harris County, Fort Bend County, Montgomery County, Brazoria County, Galveston County
Zip Codes: All zip codes in 100 miles from Houston