Signs your lift station is malfunctioning

Chances are if you have a lift station on your property than contractors have already decided that gravity isn’t working in your septic tanks’ favor – and trust us when we tell you that’ a good thing! Lift Stations are incredibly valuable applications to have largely because they ensure that sewage can flow uphill into a septic system or sewer.

It’s when they stop working that you need to worry a bit – and that’s what we’re here to discuss today. Here are some signs that it might be time to call in a service technician and get your lift station looked at. Let’s jump right in!

Clogged pumps

Like we mentioned above, lift stations are usually necessary due to an area’s layout and send waste to places it can’t travel due to natural means. However – over time the composition of the wastewater can change – especially when you’re dealing with older versions of lift stations that can’t handle high density waste like sanitary products. When this gets clogged, your lift station won’t work. Be on the lookout! Your system will behave much like it would if you had a sewer backup.

Slow drainage

When your drains begin to drain more slowly, there could be something wrong with your tank. It might not be totally noticeable at first, but over time you’ll notice things like showers filling up, your bathroom sink becoming with water, etc. While this problem could be as simple as hair clogging a drain, it’s necessary to call a pro and have them come diagnose the problem first.

Strong odors

If you smell a significant, foul odor coming from the basement or your sump outdoors, then you need to call professional immediately to help come and diagnose the problem. It could be something as simple as a blockage, but there’s also a chance it could be overflow or worse yet – a rupture. Be sure you don’t delay!

No noise

We mean it lightly, but in a way – lift stations are a bit like having kids. While they might drive you a little crazy when they’re noisy – it’s when things go silent is where there might be a potential issue. Usually no sound or even a buzzing sound is an indication of pump failure or malfunction. Turn your system off immediately and give your local professional a call.

Keep your eyes and ears peeled for these issues and if you encounter any of them, call up your local lift station company and get a service pro out to your property immediately. Good luck!