Swift Sewage System Renewal – Two Birds With One Stone
The Challenge
A Facility Management company in Bath contacted us following an urgent failure of a sewage station at one of their client’s properties. Residents had reported a strong odour caused by a sump filled with sewage that was no longer being pumped out. Their previous pump service provider has been unresponsive and unreliable, creating a serious risk of overflow, reputational damage, and mounting costs from multiple tanker visits. Immediate action was needed to prevent disruption and safeguard the property.
We scheduled a visit alongside a tankering company the next day, to allow a confined space entry for our engineers to ascertain details of non-return valves (NRV), as this had been reported as having failed. On initial checks, our team discovered one of the two pumps had completely seized. After emptying the sump to allow safe, confined-space inspection, we found both NRVs needed replacing, and the guide rails and lifting chains were heavily corroded.
The Solution
Further investigation uncovered an exploded capacitor with a melted casing. An attempt to rewire the functioning pump to the alternate capacitor proved unsuccessful. After removing the guide rails, brackets, and NRVs, we pressure-tested the system to confirm there were no leaks. Temporary repairs kept the NRVs operational while awaiting the new parts.
Key actions included:
- Installation of one new pump and four new float switches
- Replacement of the failed capacitor
- Complete renewal of guide rails, top bracket, and lifting chains
- Carried out temporary NRV repairs until replacement
parts arrived
During the works, our engineers also overcame a pedestal mismatch caused by the previous contractor installing a non-standard pump—a challenge our team resolved without delay.
The Results
The facility was restored to full, safe operation, preventing costly tanker visits and eliminating the odour nuisance. To protect the system long term, we recommended an annual servicing plan, which the client immediately adopted. The Facility Management company praised our quick response, detailed asset management, and transparent reporting. The property owner, preparing the site for sale, highlighted the value of our documentation and remarked:
“This is what professional service looks like—an absolute upgrade from our previous provider.”
What began as a high-stakes emergency became a long-term solution. With a brand-new pumping system, proactive maintenance in place, and a clear audit trail, the facility manager could hand over the property with confidence—turning a potential crisis into a selling point.
If you are a Facility Manager or a property owner interested in servicing contracts for sewage pumps, or you need help in an emergency, contact us below!
