What is the #1 cause of lift station failure?
Rag and wipe accumulation wrapped around the impeller. Even products marketed as 'flushable' do not break down before reaching pumps.
Why it happens
Rags and wipes do not disperse in water. Instead, they entwine with hair and congeal with fats, oils, and grease to form dense, rope-like masses. These masses bind pump impellers, block float switches, and can cause motor burnout or catastrophic failure leading to sewage backups. This is a mechanical obstruction that standard wastewater flow cannot clear, requiring physical removal.
What to check
Regularly inspect the wet well for floating debris and heavy grease caps. Listen for unusual pump noises, which can indicate a strained motor. Observe pump cycles; abnormally long or frequent cycles suggest a partial clog or float switch obstruction. Check that float switches move freely and are not caked with grease or debris, as this prevents the pumps from activating correctly.
When to call a professional
Contact a professional service for any pump alarm or if pumps fail to activate. Persistent sewer odors also require expert diagnosis, as they can indicate escaping toxic gases like hydrogen sulfide. If a heavy grease cap or visible rag accumulation is present in the wet well, professional confined-space cleaning is necessary for safe removal.
How Luften handles it
Luften addresses the root causes of failure with a consolidated service program. Following a complimentary on-site survey, our in-house technicians perform documented inspections of pumps and floats and can install continuous dosing equipment to break down grease. We combine lift station and ejector pit care with drain and grease trap maintenance, providing a comprehensive wastewater management approach for the entire building.
Ejector Pit & Lift Station Treatment Program