What Is a Lift Station & How Does It Work?

Lift stations are pump stations that transport wastewater from a lower to a higher area. These are affordable alternatives that reduce the capital construction costs of the traditional gravity flow sewer systems. With a lift station, you won't have to spend on excavation or end up digging deeper than 10 feet on a site for the sewer line.Is there a way for you to monitor lift stations remotely and connect them to a central data source? Find out what a lift station can do for your construction site or an area that doesn't have enough depth for a sewer line. Plus, the technology available to you to monitor the lift station's performance and repairs.

About Lift Stations

Lift stations are pump stations that use a collection system to move sewage or wastewater from a lower to a higher elevation. They are usually installed in places with too much pipe depth or low land locations. The stations normally transport the wastewater from residential and commercial areas to a proper wastewater treatment plant. Steel lift stations last between 15 to 20 years and last longer with proper care and maintenance.

So how exactly do these lift stations work? There are two types to consider. The first is the dry well composed of two collection areas: the pit or wet well where wastewater is collected and a dry well composed of the pumps, equipment, and controls that transport the water. The latter parts of the equipment are found in a separate location underground. The wet well on its own makes it more accessible for maintenance and inspection.The second type of lift station is the single submersible wet well. It's the more popular and affordable structure with an opening submerged inlet and operates underwater. All components are installed inside or adjacent to the single wet well. It's cheaper compared to dry well stations and requires less frequent pump maintenance in its operations.

Maintenance Requirements for a Lift Station

Several requirements go into a well-maintained lift station. Ensuring the wastewater lift station complies with all these will make it effective and last longer. First, it should not be used for any other purpose, like sewage storage. Wastewater that remains in a wet well can lead to septic action. The lift station's pump capacity should not exceed the treated wastewater quantity to prevent prolonged storage. For this to occur, the wet well must be large enough to prevent any excess starting and stopping in the pump.Another major requirement is having a reliable monitoring system. Automated data can help check parts like valves, controls, float switches, and preprogrammed settings remotely to avoid on-site damage. Make sure the structure's operation and maintenance are regularly tracked.While remote maintenance is integral, it's still important to schedule professionals that can check the station's operation. A timely inspection from an onsite manager can help prevent unexpected problems in the future.

Lift Stations & AI-Powered Technology

Technology helps monitor multiple lift stations in real-time and remotely. AI-powered management software lets you monitor your lift stations without having to leave your post. Remote monitoring of lift station pumps and support equipment helps managers deliver the company's reliable services more efficiently.This smart technology uses cellular connectivity to connect industrial controllers and cloud-based software, enabling access to any lift station's locations. If you have multiple lift stations across different cities, remote monitoring makes the information accessible to the nearest office. The system lets you track the lift station's operational performance with these handy and convenient features:

• Real-time alarms and notifications to alert you for any emergencies or immediate repairs
• Unlimited mobile visibility of operational parameters. You can track the lift station's performance even on the go from your mobile device.
• Remote control of set points, pumps, and more. Some tasks can be performed straight from your office without going to the lift station.

There's also multi-protocol support for incumbent solutions, so any legacy systems you're currently using won't inhibit the technology's installation or data collection. With a reliable management system, remote tracking works seamlessly with any technology your company is using with the lift station. There is no need to spend on additional upgrades or software for everything to be in sync.

Final Thoughts

Lift stations help collect waste in a large site without having to spend on sewage pipe installation costs. They're also ideal for low-land places that lack the depth underground. It's a cost-effective solution any construction company can consider. To maximize their use, remote tracking technology helps manage the lift station's maintenance and assure reliable services. Explore solutions on how to further optimize your site and fleet.