Hurricane Harvey Was No Match For These Pumps

The main lift station serving the waste water treatment plant in Morgan’s Point, Texas, continually experienced problems with its three standard non-clog pumps. The pumps frequently clogged when rainfall totals reached or exceeded 2 inches. Shop rags, pieces of 2 x 4 lumber, plastic bottles, gloves, and wet wipes all commonly clogged the pumps when the standard demand increased. Pump removal, unplugging, and recurring repairs were required, but the service company was not always available for immediate assistance, causing problems for residents serviced by this lift station.

From 2009 to 2016, Morgan’s Point spent approximately $100,000 to have the three pumps maintained and serviced. Over that period, 24 service calls were required to remove the pumps, de-rag them, reinstall, and reset the pumps. In addition, they rebuilt the pumps at least six times and had to purchase two replacement pumps.