Achilles UVDB Silver Stamp

Mawdsleys achieves Achilles UVDB Accreditation with 99% Score

News

We are pleased to announce that Mawdsleys has successfully achieved Achilles UVDB accreditation, a significant achievement that underscores our commitment to maintaining the highest standards in health, safety, and quality management systems.

What is Achilles UVDB?

Achilles is a global leader in supply chain risk management, particularly within the Utility Sector. Their certification process is rigorous, designed to ensure that companies like ours not only meet but exceed industry standards. By earning this accreditation, we’ve demonstrated that Mawdsleys BER is serious about the systems and processes that keep our operations safe, efficient, and reliable.

 

Why is this Accreditation important?

The Achilles UVDB certification is particularly important to us because it reinforces our role as a trusted partner for our Utilities customers, both long-standing and new. Achieving this certification with an impressive overall score of 99% is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team. It reflects our ongoing commitment to excellence and our determination to uphold the highest standards in everything we do.

This milestone is a proud moment for all of us at Mawdsleys BER. It not only validates the strength of our systems and processes but also reinforces our commitment to continuous improvement. We are excited to continue delivering exceptional service and quality to our customers, now with the added assurance of Achilles certification.

Talk to the Experts

For more information about our services and our commitment to quality and safety, or to learn more about how our Achilles Certification benefits your business, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Give us a call today on 0117 955 2481 or fill out a contact form and we will get back to you.

Pump-and-engineers

8 Common Problems with Sewage Pumps and How to Fix Them

Sewage Pumps

Sewage pumps play a crucial role in managing wastewater in almost every premises, from private homes to large commercial establishments.

However, like any mechanical system, sewage pumps can encounter problems that prevent them from operating as expected and even cause them to break down completely.

When sewage pumps fail, it can be extremely disruptive to building users and can result in toilets backing up, lack of access to clean water and overflow.

To prevent this, our latest blog post reviews 8 common problems with sewage pumps and how you can fix them. The most common problems with sewage pumps include:

A sewage pump being taken out of a manhole

1. Pump Won’t Start

When a sewage pump fails to start, it can be due to a range of factors, including power outages, sensor malfunctions, faults in the control panel, motor failures, debris blocking the impeller, or blockages leading to tripped electrics. Given the numerous potential causes, it is recommended to call out a pump engineer to carry out an inspection of the pump. An experienced technician can identify the cause and carry out necessary repairs.

2. Pump Won’t Turn Off

A sewage pump that continuously runs may have a faulty control float switch or a blockage. Additionally, if you’ve noticed a spike in your electricity bills, it could sign that your pump isn’t shutting off as it should.

If the pump is non-critical, we would recommend cutting the power to the unit. To address the issue properly, schedule an inspection with an engineer. They can assess the control float switch and related components to restore proper pump functionality. Failure to stop the pump will run the pump dry and damage the seals within the pump, causing the pump to fail.

An image of a toilet roll with "Don't panic" written on it

3. Toilets Backed Up

Toilet backups are often caused by blockages within the pump, issues with sewage treatment plants, or the need for septic tank emptying.

Given the disruption that toilets backing up can cause for building users, it is recommended to minimise your water usage by avoiding using toilets and taps until an engineer can attend.

4. Leaking from Pump & Pipework

Leaks in sewage pumps are often caused by broken valves or cracked/broken pipework. These leaks can lead to reduced efficiency and, potentially, further damage.

Damaged pipework or Failed Non Return Valves will cause the sewage to recirculate within the sump.  This causes the pumps to work harder to remove the waste, so energy consumption will increase and wear on the pump is likely to reduce the life of the pump.

We recommend carrying out a visual inspection of the pump to identify where the leak is coming from, this will allow you to order the correct replacement part or describe the issue more accurately to an engineer.

If you can’t find the cause of the leak, contact a pump engineer to inspect the unit. Additionally, consider implementing a pump maintenance plan to prevent future leakage and related problems.

Leakage and is a serious emergency which require immediate action!
Get in touch with us if you need fast 24/7 support.

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5. High-Level Alarm Sounding

High-level alarms activate when water levels rise to critical points within the pump system.

In case of a high-level alarm, switch off the pump immediately and contact an engineer for professional assistance. It’s essential to identify and resolve the underlying cause to prevent system overload.

6. Loud Noises from Pump (Vibrations, Banging)

Noises like vibrations or banging emanating from a sewage pump may be due to improperly secured pipes, a malfunctioning system check valve or an impeller that isn’t secured within the pump casing.

We recommend carrying out a visual inspection of the pump, including checking the pump fixtures, before contacting a pump engineer who will be able to ensure the pipes are adequately secured and may potentially be able to install a quieter valve.

7. Burnout

Burnout can occur for several reasons, including:

  • Pump not suitable for the job (wrong size, wrong type)
  • Overwhelming surges from heavy usage
  • Failed float stops causing the pump to run until burnout
  • Overloads are not set correctly
  • The pump is blocked, causing it to pull high amps

Arrange a consultation with an engineer to ensure that your sewage pump is correctly designed for its specific role. As well as reducing the risk of burnout, using the right pump for the job can result in a longer lifespan and save you money.

8. Bad Smells from the Pump

A bad smell from the pump can indicate improper seals, stagnant pump water, or the growth of mould within the pump.

If you notice bad smells, it’s crucial to have an engineer inspect the pump thoroughly.

Regular pump maintenance can also help prevent this issue by ensuring proper seals and preventing the build up of stagnant water.

Professional Sewage Pump Repair and Maintenance

Dealing with sewage pump issues promptly is crucial to maintaining proper wastewater management and preventing disruptions.

By understanding these common problems and solutions with sewage pumps, you can take proactive steps to minimise the risk of pump breakdown.

If you are experiencing issues with your sewage pump, call our expert team today on 0117 954 8030 or fill out a contact form.

Irrigation systems for sports fields

Keep Your Cricket Pitch In It’s Best Shape With A Portable Irrigation System

Portable IrrigationProductsServices

Cricket season has begun, teams across the nation will be playing regularly from early March to late September and as any player, groundskeeper or spectator of the sport will know that the quality of the pitch is one of the most important parts of the game.

There are also a number of risks that can arise from poor irrigation on sports fields, including injuries and games being called off.

Find out more about why a good quality pitch is so important for the sport – and the options available to ensure yours is exceptional.

 

The England & Wales Cricket Board – Recommended Pitch Quality

Having a high-quality pitch allows players to perform at their best, bobbles and dry patches or cracks on the pitch mean wayward bowls, frustrated players and potential injuries, cricket games usually go on for up to five hours – so it’s essential they can maintain their quality for this long.

A couple of the guidelines the ECB set out to ensure the best quality include:

  • The cricket square requires a firm and even surface.
  • The outfield should provide a ‘fast and true’ surface that provides a good and safe foot for the fielding team to prevent injuries and improve the standard of play.
  • Even at the lowest tier of the game, the ball should bounce properly throughout the game.
An image of our Long Range Irrigator on a rugby field

How Can A Long Reach Irrigation System Benefit Me As A:

Groundsman:

  • An LRI system allows you to effortlessly maintain your pitch without the time needed for manual watering or budget needed for a pop-up sprinkler system.
  • The versatility of an LRI system means you can water the pitch only when needed, this eliminates the chance of the pitch becoming waterlogged or dried out.
  • Our most popular LRI systems (25 & 50) have a radius of 25m & 50m and are able to run on water supplies with low pressure – meaning you won’t need to invest in upgrading your water system.
  • Keeping on top of your pitches health removes the need for any expensive re-seeding in the future.

Player:

  • A high-quality pitch allows you to play at your best – bowls will run across the wicket smoothly without any bobbles – this also makes for a fairer game.
  • When the pitch is in good condition, fielders will fall less often – reducing the risk of injury.
  • If it is a particularly hot day, the LRI system can be used during the break to ensure it remains at a good standard throughout the day.

Can We Afford To Have A Great Quality Pitch As A Lower-Tier Club?

Despite what you may think, you don’t have to be a high-tier club to have a great pitch. Our LRI systems are ideal for clubs who can’t afford to invest in underground systems or pop up systems – allowing you to quickly water your pitch and even adjust their position to target problem areas where the pitch is frequently drying up.

Get your free quotation today! Call us on 0117 954 8030

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What Other Sports Pitches Use Irrigation?

Aside from cricket fields, our LRI systems have proved to be very effective across a number of different sporting fields including:

Football Pitches – In the highest leagues of football, clubs usually have pop-up sprinkler systems and huge grounds teams. Portable irrigation is the perfect solution for having a great quality pitch without the hefty price tag – we have supplied LRI systems to a number of mid to high-tier clubs throughout the years including, Taunton Town FC, Hoddesdon Town FC and Bristol Rovers FC.

Rugby Pitches – Because of the nature of the sport, good irrigation for rugby pitches is absolutely essential, not only is there a lot of wear tear on the pitch – but players tend to get injured more frequently and landing on hard ground can make injuries more severe. We have provided irrigation for all tiers of rugby clubs, from local teams right the way through to Rugby World Cup training grounds.

In addition to these, LRI systems are also used for hockey fields, school sports fields and equestrian centres. They can also be used in industrial application such as dust suppression in quarries.

Portable Irrigation System Video

 

An image of a pressure meter

7 Common Problems with Booster Pumps and How to Fix Them

Booster Pumps

What is a booster set?

Booster pumping systems, booster sets or water pressure pumps are a proven and effective solution for increasing water pressure, particularly in larger buildings.

They are commonly used in environments such as apartments, hotels, schools, leisure centres and other buildings where it is essential that all outlets have access to adequate water pressure.

Unfortunately, booster pumps can experience problems, especially when they are not properly maintained. Their underperformance or complete failure can be extremely disruptive and often results in some or all building occupants having no access to water or experiencing low pressure.

In environments such as apartments, a pump failure could mean that residents do not have sufficient pressure to carry out essential daily tasks such as having a shower, flushing the toilet or using their taps.

To prevent this, our latest blog post takes a look at 7 problems with booster pumps and how you can fix them. The most common problems are:

Booster set image

1. Pump Won’t Start

A booster pump that won’t start means that water will not be available to any outlet fed from the pump.

This could be due to a lack of power, water in the break tank, tripping, sensor failure, problems with the control panel and motor failure.

Firstly, if there is a power cut, then the pumps won’t run and there will be no water delivered.  When the electricity is reinstated, the pumps might need to be reset in order to work. If in doubt, please call our professional engineers for further assistance.

If the ball valve has failed in the break tank and the pumps are fitted with low-level protection, then the pumps won’t start.  Check that the tank has water.

If these have been checked, the other potential causes can be difficult to fix the issue without sufficient knowledge and expertise. Therefore, it is recommended to arrange a full inspection from a pump engineer.

2. High Running Noise

A high running noise from your water pressure pump is not only a sign of potential problems, but can also be frustrating for building users as they may be woken or otherwise disturbed by the higher operating noise.

There are several reasons why a water booster pump can make excessive noise, including high demand, incorrect positioning, worn or old components and excessive vibration from the pump or pipework within the building.

Along with regular maintenance, it’s possible to prevent noise from your pump by ensuring it can meet demand and using vibration isolators such as vibration mats, bases, and springs.

To find out more about this problem, take a look at our blog post on best practices for controlling noise in booster pumping systems.

An image of an engineer programming a booster set

3. Leakage

Leaking from your water pressure pump reduces its effectiveness and can result in more serious problems if not addressed. Leaks can be caused by issues such as broken valves, worn or cracked seals and the water pressure being too high.

To determine the cause of the leak, we recommend carrying out an inspection of the pump and its components. If you are unable to identify the issue, a full service should be arranged with a pump engineer.

If you are responsible for the maintenance of a booster set, take a look at our free booster pump maintenance inspection checklist, which covers the key components that should be inspected regularly.


4. Contamination

Contamination is a serious issue in any pumping system, but even more so with a booster set where end users are likely to be using and drinking the water it’s distributing.

Contamination can be caused by inadequate cleaning of the pump or failing to manage the maintenance requirements of the cold water storage tank.

If there is contamination within the pump, it should be switched off immediately, and a full inspection should be arranged with an engineer who can test, clean and disinfect the cold water tank.

Leakage and Contamination are serious emergencies which require immediate action! Get in touch with us if you need fast 24/7 support.

Contact us

Low water pressure in showerhead 5. Low Water Pressure

The primary purpose of a booster set is to increase the pressure of water, so it’s an immediate cause for concern if low water pressure is experienced.

A water pressure drop could be caused by high demand, the age and suitability of the pump, a faulty sensor, valve failure or a leak.

We recommend carrying out a visual inspection on the unit before arranging for one of our engineers to assess whether a repair is required or whether the pump is no longer up to the job and needs replacing.

To find out more about what causes low water pressure and how you can improve it, take a look at our blog post on how to improve water pressure.

6. High Operating Costs

If you have noticed an increase in operating costs, it may not be down to increasing energy prices alone. As pumps age, they become less efficient, particularly if they are not being professionally maintained.

With the new features offered by modern pumps, upgrading can offer potentially thousands in cost savings whilst providing a better experience for residents and reducing your carbon footprint.

If your bills are increasing, we recommend arranging a pump energy check. This check gives you an accurate view of current pump performance and can calculate whether any cost savings could be made by upgrading the unit.

7. Pressure is too High

When a pump’s pressure is too high, it puts unnecessary strain on the unit and pipework without offering any real benefit to the users of the building.

One of the most common reasons for the pressure being too high is the pressure relief valve (PRV), which controls pressure being set too high or being stuck open.

If your pressure is running too high, we recommend checking the pressure gauge and manually reducing the pressure if required. If the PRV does not close or the pressure does not decrease, organise an inspection from an engineer.

Professional Booster Set Repairs and Maintenance

If you are experiencing issues with your water booster pumps, we can help. Our engineers have years of experience in the design, installation and commissioning, repair and ongoing maintenance of pumps from leading manufacturers.

For more information, call us today on 0117 954 8030 or fill out a contact form below, and we will get back to you.

Booster Pump Set

How Much Could a Booster Pump Energy Check Save You?

AdviceBooster Pumps

Booster Pump Set

Booster pumps are an effective method of increasing water pressure and ensuring building users can access water of a suitable pressure, regardless of the number of outlets in use or size of the building.

Booster pumps are often used in larger sized buildings with multiple occupants such as flats, apartment blocks, office buildings, hotels, schools and Government buildings where mains pressure alone isn’t enough to meet demands.

Many booster pumps we find in operation are old units with antiquated controls which become less economical and efficient over time. With environmental impact becoming very important and the cost of electricity always rising, it can pay dividends to understand how economical your pump is and take steps to improve it.

Read our blog post to find out more about the considerable savings that can be unearthed through an energy check, the benefits of a modern booster pump and the importance of keeping your booster set professionally maintained.

Booster Set Energy Check Savings

A pump energy check gives you a clear view of your pumps current performance and the associated cost savings that could be made by upgrading your existing booster pumping system. When carrying out an energy check, the following factors are considered:

  • Pump & head flow
  • Motor power data
  • Operating hours per year
  • Age of pump
  • Pump use
  • Operating needs

From this data, the test can ascertain what energy savings could be made with the installation of a new booster set, including how long the payback time would be.

At Mawdsleys Pumps, we regularly carry out energy checks in line with the ISO 14414 Pump Energy Assessment Standards before making system recommendations to clients, often revealing thousands of pounds worth of energy savings that could be made.

In a recent test we carried out, we uncovered potential savings of over £40,000 over a 10 year period at an NHS facility in Bristol, read the full case study here.

The Benefits of a Modern Booster Set

Modern booster sets are made up of several components designed to enable adequate water pressure to any sized building. As technology has improved, so have the number of benefits a booster set offers, the key advantages are:

  • Variable Speed Drives – Modern booster sets are fitted with variable speed drives, these drives have pressure sensors and flow sensors which keep the pressure constant with varying demand, extending the life of the pump and meaning you only pay for what you use.
  • High Efficiency – As technology has improved, booster pumps have become more and efficient, offering adequate pressure on a normal mains water supply.
  • Environmental Benefits – As a result of improved efficiency and variable speed technology, modern booster sets use less energy, reducing the carbon footprint.
  • Duty, Standby and Assist – Modern booster sets are usually compromised of multiple pumps, meaning that there is a backup should the demand exceed the main pump, plus a standby pump should one fail. These are known as ‘duty’, ‘duty – assist’ and ‘standby’ pumps.
  • Lower Running Costs – Equally, improved efficiency and reduced energy use results in lower overall running costs, building owners can expect a booster pump to pay off its installation cost long before the end of its life.

Keeping Your Booster Set Well Maintained

Due to their critical nature, there is never a good time for a booster pump to fail or start to underperform.

In order to keep your booster set running at maximum efficiency, it is recommended that you have your pump serviced by a professional pump engineer.

As well as keeping the pump running at full strength, regular servicing ensures that any developing faults are rectified, reducing the risk of breakdown.

Additionally, there are maintenance checks such as visual inspections that can be carried out every month to complement annual servicing.

To help keep on top of routine maintenance, we have created a free inspection checklist for responsible persons. Click the button below to download your copy.

Download free booster pump maintenance checklist

Booster Pump Installation, Energy Checks & Service Contracts

At Mawdsleys Pumps, we offer an end to end service for the design, installation, repair and ongoing servicing of booster sets; with servicing contracts including regular preventative maintenance to keep your pump running efficiently, which will reduce risk of breakdown.

We also carry out energy checks for booster pumping systems, to highlight and inefficiencies in your system and suggest upgrades which could improve efficiency, reduce energy usage and save on running costs.

For more information about our energy checks, booster pump service or maintenance contracts, give one of our expert team a call today on 0117 954 8030 or fill out a contact form and we will get back to you.

ISO-14001-Colour-Mawdsleys

Mawdsleys Becomes ISO 14001:2015 Certified

News

We are pleased to announce that as part of our commitment to operating more efficiently and reducing our impact on the environment, we have achieved ISO 14001:2015 certification.

With many businesses and consumers considering their carbon footprint, this certification reflects our ethos of building a more sustainable business for our employees and customers.

Find out more about ISO 14001, the changes we made to reduce our environmental impact and the benefits to our customers and suppliers.

What is ISO 14001?

ISO 14001 is the international standard that specifies the requirements for an environmental management system that organisations can use to enhance their environmental performance.

This certification is relevant to businesses of any size across all industries when looking to reduce their environmental impact.

The certification can help businesses become more efficient, reduce costs and give them a competitive advantage over other businesses in their industry.

In addition to ISO 14001, we are ISO 9001 certified which demonstrates our ability to consistently provide services that fulfil the expectations of customers and meet regulatory requirements.

The Certification Process

To achieve the certification, we were assessed by CfA who evaluated the business in 2 stages, this included our premises and activities taking place on site regarding pump maintenance and service.

Over a 6 month period, we made several enhancements and new additions to the business to ensure we met the requirements of the standard, these included:

  • Building an environmental issues section into our Business Management Systems.
  • Managing our waste streams to ensure that all waste transfer contractors are licenced and that waste transfer notes are received correctly completed for each load.
  • Keeping all fluids on site bunded to prevent accidental leakage to the surrounding environment & water courses.
  • Regularly assessing and safely storing all COSHH materials.
  • Carrying out legionella & asbestos risks assessment for the premises including regular management.
  • Responsibly sourcing all raw materials used by the business.
  • Managing ways of making the building more energy efficient.
  • Analysing energy usage and fuel on an annual basis, making reductions in line with the business plan objective.
  • Installing a large bunded container for use when jet washing dirty motor frames. This wastewater is then pumped into IBC tanks for responsible disposal.

Following these enhancements to our business practices, we were officially assessed over a 2 day period by an external auditor

What Our Certification Means for Customers  

As consumers across the world are becoming more conscious of the environmental impacts of the products they purchase and the services they use, we have had customers ask what we are doing with regard to the environment.

Our certification solidifies our commitment to reducing our carbon footprint and gives customers and suppliers the peace of mind that their supply chain is acting responsibly whilst helping them comply with their own commitments.

As well as making our business more efficient and reducing our impact on the environment, the ISO 14001 certification is already a common pre-requisite in defence contracts and tenders, meaning we are fully prepared to continue fulfilling our services to these customers in the future.

“Our recent certification shows our commitment to our customers, suppliers and the environment, helping us to reduce waste, eliminate efficiencies across the business and ensuring we can meet the expectations of customers.”

 Peter Woodward, Managing Director – Mawdsleys

M&E Services

At Mawdsleys, we maintain several professional accreditations and certifications including ISO 14001 to reassure our customers and remain at the forefront of the sector.

 If you are looking for a fully accredited partner to provide a complete range of services for the manufacture and repair of rotating electrical and pumping equipment, contact us today.

Call 0117 955 2481 or fill out a contact form and one of our team will get back to you.

Low water pressure in showerhead

How To Improve Water Pressure

AdviceBooster Pumps

Water pressure is an essential part of any building with a water supply, yet it’s often taken for granted until something goes wrong and the pressure drops. Low water pressure can be caused by a number of factors, such as high demand and can affect every water outlet in the premises, including toilets, showers, taps, pumps, washing machines, and water tanks.

Experiencing low water pressure is extremely frustrating for building users and in commercial and agricultural environments, can result in huge drops in efficiency due to the extra time taken to output water. Read our latest blog post to find out more about the causes of low water pressure and how you can improve your water pressure.

What are the Causes of Low Water Pressure?

Water pressure is effectively the force that transports water through your pipes, so lower water pressure means that the water flows at a lower velocity.

There are a number of reasons why your water pressure may have dropped. The most common reasons for low water pressure are:

  • When demand for water is higher, pressure may be impacted
  • Properties that have a shared supply are more likely to experience issues with water pressure
  • In larger buildings such as hotels, offices, or blocks of flats, water outlets at the top of the building tend to have lower pressure
  • In gravity fed systems, your water pressure depends on how high the source of water is above your property
  • Additionally, the distance your property is away from the water source will impact the pressure you get
  • Old or damaged pumping facilities may no longer be able to cope with the demands of the building
  • Pipes restricting the flow of water due to diameter, corrosion, blockages, and leaks can reduce the water pressure
An image of a water tap

Why Water Pressure Matters

Low water pressure can create several issues in all environments, whether it’s a domestic premises, commercial office or leisure facility.  The most common complaints about low water pressure include:

  • Showers and taps can be reduced to a trickle of water
  • Toilets may not flush properly
  • Results in reduced efficiency in commercial premises
  • Any activities requiring higher pressure, such as irrigation or high-pressure cleaning, may not be possible
  • Certain modern appliances do not work below specific pressure thresholds
  • Equally, certain pumping equipment requires a specific amount of pressure to work

All of this can contribute to a poor experience for the users of the building, and in a commercial building such as a block of flats, gyms, schools or a hotel, is likely to attract complaints.

Get in touch with us so we can improve your water system efficiency and save you money

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Steps To Improving Your Water Pressure

If you’ve noticed a drop in your water pressure, here are steps you can take to try and increase it once more:

  • Check that the outlet for your water is not clogged up or blocked in any way
  • Check that the water valves for your property are fully open
  • Check for blockages in your water system
  • Check for any leaks in your water system
  • Ensure that your current pumping system meets your requirements
  • Test your appliances at peak times vs quieter times to see if there is a difference in the water pressure you receive
  • Invest in appliances such as power showers which can enable higher output even when overall pressure is lower

If you own the premises, you can take it upon yourself to check these or contact a professional if you do not have the expertise.

However, if you are a building user or rent a space in the building, it is likely that you will need to contact the landlord of the building to investigate further.

An image of a booster set system

Benefits of a Booster Pumping System

If you are still struggling with water pressure, it is likely that you need to consider taking measures to increase the pressure of water to your system, this can be done very effectively with a booster pump.

Booster pumps are installed to increase the water pressure throughout a building and are an effective means of improvement in any type of building.

They can be installed in most properties whether you rely on a typical water supply or get your water from a private supply (such as a borehole or well).

A booster pump is a long term investment that will serve your property for years if properly maintained, download our free booster pump inspection checklist to find out more.

Booster pumps are available to suit any premises, whether it’s fixed speed or a range of multiple pump variable speed sets to meet demands and offer energy saving benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can changing a shower head improve water pressure?

Yes, in some cases simply changing the shower head can improve the water pressure you get.

Shower heads can also become blocked up with limescale which restricts the amount of water that can be output, so in some cases a simple clean will help improve the water pressure.

Additionally, some showers have water saving heads that intentionally reduce the water pressure to save money.

How to improve water pressure from a well?

If you rely on a well as your water supply, it’s critical that you get adequate pressure from your system given that there is no backup.

A booster pumping system can be used to effectively increase the pressure received from private domestic water sources.

Can I install a booster pump to the mains water pump?

Yes, a booster pump can be installed to the mains water pump.

However, due to water supply regulations, pumps that draw more than 12 litres of water per minute cannot be connected to a supply pipe without permission, therefore, it’s typically a better option to install a separate water tank for your booster pump.

It’s highly recommended that you engage with a booster pump installation company who will be able to recommend the best course of action based on your situation.

Talk to the Experts

We hope that this post has given you some ideas on how you can improve the water pressure at your premises.

If you are still struggling with water pressure and want to find out more about how a booster pump could significantly improve your situation, talk to Mawdsleys Pumps today.

We are experts in booster pumping systems and have installed units in locations including domestic properties, schools, hotels, apartments, and regularly work with facilities management companies to keep booster systems performing well.

If you would like to know more, contact our expert team today on 0117 954 8030 or fill out a contact form and we will get back to you.

An image of a sewage treatment plant in green

A Buyers Guide to Sewage Treatment Plants

Sewage Treatment Plant

When you can’t connect to mains sewerage infrastructure, a sewage treatment plant is the recommended solution for waste treatment and disposal.

With septic tanks and cesspits slowly being phased out due to changing legislation and environmental consideration, many buildings across the UK are opting to have sewage treatment plants installed.

If you are thinking about having a sewage treatment plant installed at your commercial or domestic premises, our guide helps you understand what sewage treatment plants do, when they are suitable, how much they cost and what the benefits are.

What Is a Sewage Treatment Plant?

A sewage treatment plant is a below ground vessel that acts as an off-mains drainage solution for those that can’t connect to mains sewage.

Unlike cesspits and septic tanks, sewage treatment plants treat incoming wastewater to an acceptable level for discharge, making them more environmentally friendly.

How Do They Work?

Sewage treatment plants are multi-chambered units. First, the wastewater produced from the building through toilets, baths and sinks is deposited in the first chamber where the liquids and solids are separated by gravity.

The solids remain in the first chamber but the liquids flow into a biological chamber which is filled with compressed air, this helps to speed up the naturally occurring formation of bacteria.

Finally, the treated liquid is moved into the final chamber of the tank. Here the bacteria settles at the bottom of the tank to allow it to be moved back into the first tank whilst the clean water remains at the top of the tank.

The water at the top of the final tank can then be safely discharged out to a watercourse or to a ground soakaway field.

When Do You Need One?

Under the UK Building Regulations, if you can connect to the mains sewer then you should do this for the removal of sewage and wastewater.

However, if you are unable to connect to the mains sewers due to being in a remote location then you can review options for managing wastewater within your property.

It’s important to note that the responsibility for the waste produced lies with the owner of the property, so it’s critical that an appropriate solution is installed and properly managed if you cannot access the mains.

How Much Do They Cost?

As sewage treatment plants are far superior to cesspits and septic tanks in how they break down waste to a safe level, they do have a higher upfront cost and there are also additional costs to consider.

Once installed, you will need to budget for an annual service of the unit as well as emptying costs. In order to release sewage from the plant, you must first pay a small fee to get Discharge Consent.

Other considerations include the electricity costs to run the unit (which are very low due to the efficiency) and any repair and callout costs in the event of a pump breakdown.

To find out more, take a look at our blog posts which details all of the costs involved with installing and operating a sewage treatment plant.

What Are the Benefits of Sewage Treatment Plants?

A sewage treatment plant offers several benefits over other methods of sewage treatment such as septic tanks and cesspits. The key benefits include:

  • Treats wastewater to a safe level meaning that it can legally and safely be discharged.
  • Sewage treatment plants are modern technology which is reliable and extremely efficient.
  • Low running costs which offset the higher cost of installation.
  • Installation is simple and easy, though it should be done by a professional installer.
  • Whilst septic tanks and cesspits can reduce the resale value of your property, having a sewage treatment plant can make it worth more.
  • The system is compact and does not take up much room. Being underground, it will not impose on your outdoor space.
  • Alternatives such as septic and cesspits pose a number of potential dangers including gases, flooding and pollution. Sewage treatment plants are far safer in comparison.

Talk to the Experts

At Mawdsleys Pumps, our expert team has vast experience in the design, installation, ongoing maintenance and emergency repair of septic tanks and sewage treatment plants.

If you want to find out more about sewage treatment plants, or if you are having a problem with your unit – we can help.

For more information, call us now 0117 954 8030 or fill out a contact form and a member of our pumps team will get back to you.

An engineer inspecting a sewage treatment plant

How Much Does a Sewage Treatment Plant Cost?

AdviceSewage Treatment Plant

Sewage treatment plants are used in commercial and domestic properties when access to mains drainage is not possible. They treat water to make it suitable to be discharged into a drainage field or watercourse.

Cesspits and septic tanks have a number of drawbacks, including potentially dangerous gases being released, pollution and complications when trying to sell the property; most home and business owners are making the switch to sewage treatment plants.

These plants are more expensive than a cesspit or septic tank, but they provide superior performance and mean that you can safely discharge water from the plant once treated.

In this blog post, we will examine the costs of buying and running a sewage treatment plant at your home or commercial premises.

Benefits of Sewage Treatment Plants

A sewage treatment plant is robust and extremely effective, offering many benefits over other methods of treatment and disposal:

  • Sewage in a plant is treated to a safe level
  • Does not harm the environment
  • Reliable and modern solution
  • Cost-effective over time
  • Compact system
  • Improve the resale value of premises
  • Safer and poses a lower risk to health
  • Simple and easy installation

Above all, these plants are a solution for the future. As environmental agencies impose stricter rules on the process of treating and disposing of wastewater, a proper biological wastewater treatment system ensures these standards are met.

An image of a sewage treatment plant in green

Cost To Install and Supply

The cost to install a sewage treatment plant will vary depending on a number of factors such as the size of the tank, the condition of the site and any additional extras you may wish to have installed.

In domestic premises, prices start from £2,000, subject to the size of the sewage treatment plant. The price of installation will vary, and a site survey is generally required for an accurate figure.

Additionally, the price will be different if you are replacing an old system or a different type of sewage disposal unit or if you are installing one from scratch.

At Mawdsleys Pump Services, we design sewage treatment plant systems to meet the exact needs of our clients, meaning you don’t pay more than you need to for a plant that meets your needs.

An engineer inspe

Additional Costs To Consider

As well as the initial cost to purchase and have the plant installed, there are other additional costs after installation that should be considered:

  • Annual Service – An annual service is essential to the ongoing performance of your plant and reduces the risk of breakdown. An annual service starts from just £350 in most cases, subject to equipment and location.
  • Emptying – Once the sewage inside your plant is treated, it will need to be discharged. When it is emptied, there are costs involved, including contractor fees and tanker charges.
  • Discharge Consent – In order to release sewage from the plant, you must first apply for discharge consent and will incur a fee for doing so. At Mawdsleys, we can help with discharge water testing and can also acquire discharge consent for your unit.
  • Repairs – In the event of damage to your plant, fast and professional repair is critical to ensure that you can use the facilities in your property once more. At Mawdsleys Pumps Services, we offer a 24/7 emergency pump breakdown service.
  • Power Costs – As sewage treatment plants require a power source, you will incur a cost to run the unit. However, modern units are extremely efficient and use a small amount of power to run.

Talk to the Experts

Do you want to find out more about the cost of a sewage treatment plant at your premises? Whether you have a plant that needs upgrading, are currently relying on a septic tank/cesspit, or do not have any sewage treatment method currently installed, we can help.

Mawdsleys Pump Services takes your bespoke requirements and budgets into account and designs a system that meets all of your waste disposal needs.

Once the system is installed, we can manage all the aftercare, giving you the peace of mind when dealing with a single contractor for everything related to your plant.

For more information, give one of our expert team a call on 0117 975 87030 or fill out our contact form below, and we will get back to you.

Commercial Water System

Mawdsleys Engineers Complete Water Hygiene Training Courses

Company News

We are pleased to announce that Mawdsleys Pumps Services engineers have successfully undertaken training courses as part of our ongoing commitment to investment in water hygiene services.

The courses covered legionella risk assessment of commercial and cold water systems, legionella bacteria in hot and cold water systems, water hygiene and the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations.

Find out more about the qualifications and how they benefit our customers in our latest blog post.