What is a lift station?

A lift station, often referred to as a pump station, is designed specifically for moving wastewater from lower to higher elevations within a collection system. This is necessary because gravity alone cannot always transport wastewater through the system, especially in areas where the terrain does not allow for a downhill flow. Lift stations utilize pumps to raise the wastewater, allowing it to flow towards treatment facilities or further along the collection system.

The critical role of a lift station is to ensure that wastewater can be effectively transported, mitigating the risk of backups and overflows that could occur if wastewater could not reach its destination. This function is integral to maintaining the efficiency and safety of wastewater management systems. While cleaning pipes, managing solid waste, and treating wastewater are essential components of the overall wastewater treatment process, they do not define the primary purpose of a lift station, which is solely focused on the transportation of wastewater through pumping.