Common Mistakes to Avoid When Installing a Pump Station

Pumps2You offers a range of tank pumps, rainwater pumps and any other pump systems your business may need. Once you’ve found the right system for your project it's important to ensure that its installation is completed correctly. 

Even the most competent installers can run into issues, today we’ll be taking a look into some of the common issues that arise and how to solve them so that your pumping system can run to its fullest potential. 

Load Bearing on the Poly Chamber

The polyethylene chamber found in your pumping system is not meant to be a load bearing element. But often ends up being used this way when the excavation depth is wrong. These small issues can cause the cover to sit directly on the chamber which will transfer the load from the surface to the poly, adding extra weight and stress that the chamber wasn't designed for.  

The solution to this issue is to know the exact dimensions of your cover and the area allowed for proper excavation depth. Set your chamber down at least as far as measured and ensure that you tie your cast iron cover through to the paving detail. 

Weights Not Attached to Float Cables

Not attaching the weights to your pump systems float lines can cause the stunted and delayed trigger of your float. Since the weight provides the pivot point in your floatable cable it's important that you attach the weights so that the pump wont overflow.  

The solution to this issue is to attach the float lines at the pivot point before you run them through the channel. If you’ve already run the line through your system, you can also use utility grade zip ties to attach the weights, but you’ll have to continually watch over the integrity of the zip ties. 

Uncleared Hard Debris Impacting Pumps

Rocks and other solid and thicker debris can get caught in your pump system, especially in the impeller. The blockage created from this debris can cause your pump to jam or increase its likelihood of damage. This issue is most common in stormwater pump stations as large rocks and debris is found more commonly in these water sources. Making them more vulnerable to overflowing if not managed properly. 

The solution to this common problem is to clear out the bottom of the pump chamber, continually checking that no debris has collected during the installation of your system. At this stage you should also flush out the pipe to ensure that it's clean and flowing correctly too. Once the system is up and running it's crucial that a regular check-up of the pump is being undertaken, to make sure all debris is cleared and to access the wear and tear of your pump. This can ensure the smooth and optimal running of your pump station. 

Absent or Improper Concrete Ballast

If your pump station hasn’t been installed with a secure ballast, there is the increased possibility that the bottom of your chamber may move and lift up. The buoyancy level in your chamber is caused by the upward pressure of the water table on your pump, if not installed properly it can mean the pump station may push through the finished surface. 

To fix this common issue it's important to remember that the concrete should encase the bottom of the pump chamber, covering the first rib. If your concrete ballast isn't placed in this correct form, make sure to change it before the installation. This can be done by using the tie points within the chamber. These points of steel reinforcement are found at the bottom of the chamber and attach to the concrete ballast to counteract the buoyancy pressure in your pump station system. 

The Best Pumping Systems in Australia

Pumps2You is Australia’s premier distributor of high-quality pumps. Talk to us today and get the best advice. Submit your enquiry online, or give us a call on 1300 767 443.