Providing Sewer Solutions

What are pump stations and when can they save you money?...

No items found.

Sewer pump stations, also known as lift stations, are critical components of modern sewer systems and are becoming more and more necessary for our clients as growth continues to outpace the construction of public gravity sewer mains. Pump stations can vary greatly in size and complexity from serving single neighborhoods to entire Cities, pumping millions of gallons of effluent every day.

The origins of pump stations can be traced back to the ancient Romans, but the principles remain the same. Wastewater and sewage is collected at a low point in an underground sump or pit. One pump (or more)then operates to move the sewage up and out of the sump and into a pressurized pipeline, also known as a force main. The wastewater is then transported to a gravity main and onwards to a treatment plant.

The size and complexity of the pump station will rely on several important factors, including the calculated flow rate, distance and elevation to the receiving outfall as well as the types of pumps and equipment that are required by the local jurisdiction. Additionally, pump stations must be designed with safety factors that take into account maintenance access, equipment failure and power outages.

PEC+ is equipped to help you determine the necessity and potential value of incorporating a pump station into the design of your new development. Please reach out with any questions in general or regarding your project. jharpring@pec.plus / nschaap@pec.plus