Lift stations are essential components of municipal wastewater systems, often operating in the background without issue—until something goes wrong. Proactive assessments help identify maintenance needs early, reduce emergency repairs, and drive capital planning with reliable data. A well-executed assessment typically includes multiple core components, each offering insight into system performance and long-term reliability, including:

PHYSICAL INSPECTION

An inspection of the components of the lift station that are visible. 

Assessment begins with a visual review of site conditions and exterior infrastructure. These are broken up into subcategories of site, mechanical, architectural and electrical and SCADA features.

Site ConDitions

Elements such as drainage, snow storage, fencing, and vehicle access are evaluated for their impact on safety and accessibility.

Structural components—wet wells, valve vaults, and enclosures—are inspected for surface-level issues like cracks, corrosion, or water infiltration. These observations often guide decisions about more in-depth follow-up investigations.

Mechanical & Architectural Condition

Mechanical systems are assessed for condition and operability. Pumps, valves, and piping are reviewed for excessive wear, vibration, or noise, while plumbing fixtures and HVAC units are checked for proper function.

Architectural elements—including doors, masonry, and roofs—are also examined. Indicators such as masonry efflorescence,  general door and door hardware condition, window condition, or deteriorating protective coatings (paint) help forecast repair timelines and inform maintenance priorities.

ELECTRICAL & SCADA EQUIPMENT

Key electrical components, such as junction boxes, generators, transfer switches, and control panels, are visually inspected to assess age, condition, and exposure to potential hazards. While internal access is limited during standard assessments, exterior reviews combined with operator input often reveal critical information.

SCADA systems are evaluated for functionality, alert response, and data integration to ensure real-time monitoring supports system reliability.

Operational Testing

During the site visit, equipment is tested to verify functionality. Common checks include generator performance, HVAC operation, pump controls, and SCADA alarm triggers. Where flow meters are unavailable, drawdown testing helps evaluate pump capacity.

Bypass systems are also reviewed to confirm they are functional and appropriately sized for emergency or maintenance conditions.

Runtime & Flow Data Review

Pump runtime data—particularly from SCADA systems—offers valuable insights into lift station performance during both typical and peak flow events. Hourly logs, when available, provide a clearer picture than daily summaries or manual recordings.

Direct flow metering, when in place, offers the most accurate data and supports advanced system analysis and forecasting.

Town of Waterford Sanitary District No 1 Lift Station

Case Study: Town of Waterford

An assessment in the Town of Waterford Sanitary District No. 1 revealed several issues and corrective actions were included in an overall upgrade project for 21 lift stations.  These included:

  • Pump replacement for increased capacity

  • Replacement or repainting of corroded piping in wet wells and valve manholes

  • Replacement of buildings that did not have the necessary electrical clearance

  • The addition or replacement of standby generators and switchgear to increase emergency response

NEXT STEPS

Comprehensive lift station assessments equip municipalities with the knowledge needed to maintain performance, justify funding requests, and support long-range infrastructure planning. Ruekert & Mielke’s approach ensures each assessment delivers practical insights backed by field experience. Ready to schedule your assessment?

About the Author

Ethan Botmen
Project Manager

Ethan has hands-on and project administration experience with a wide range of municipal engineering and pursued his master’s studies to focus on water and wastewater treatment. He concentrated on the biochemistry involved in treating a variety of constituents, as well as experimenting with different water treatment technologies. Ethan also has practical experience evaluating lift station performance and condition, contributing to assessments that support proactive maintenance and long-term infrastructure planning.