Five Common Issues With A Septic Lift Station
A lift station is common component on many septic tanks. It consists of a pump, which "lifts" the effluent from a lower level to a higher level within the septic tank or lines when the slope of the land doesn't allow the effluent to flow in the right direction on its own. Knowing the most common issues to affect a lift station can help you quickly identify problems if they occur.
1. Motor Malfunction
The most common issue is a malfunction in the motor that powers the pump. Fortunately, most of these problems only require simple annual maintenance to avoid, such as regular lubrication and belt replacements. If the motor fails completely, your service tech may need to rebuild the damaged components or replace the pump motor entirely.
2. Poor Alignment
A lift station must be perfectly aligned so that the effluent can be easily pumped into the tank. If the pump and it's connected lines aren't aligned properly, then the effluent may not travel smoothly into the tank. Instead, it will bottleneck in the lines at the lift station, which can lead to slow drains or even a sewage backup in your home. Your repair tech can quickly check that all the lines are properly aligned for the best flow.
3. Wear and Tear
Normal wear and tear can wreak havoc on the various components inside the lift station. Seals and washers can give out, leading to leaks. The pump itself may crack or begin to fail. Schedule an annual inspection so that worn components can be replaced before the cause the entire lift station to fail. Remember, if the station doesn't move the effluent efficiently, it is very likely to lead to sewage backing up in your drains.
4. Cracked Pipes
Pipes age, and as they age they become more prone to cracks and leaks. The area most prone to cracking is where the pipes run near the motor. This is because the constant vibration from the motor puts more stress on the pipes. Further, cracked pipes cause sewage to leak into your yard. Make sure any pipes showing signs of damage are replaced before they begin to leak.
5. Ground Movement
The ground around your septic tank and lift station can shift over time, particularly if you have had a very wet or very cold year. This movement can put stress on pipes, particularly at the joints, which can cause them to spread apart.
Contact a septic tank repair service for more help if your lift station is having issues.
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