Water Agitation vs. F.O.G.: How Technology Is Solving A Costly Problem In Lift Stations

By Bethany Thompson, Municipal Sales Territory Manager, Kasco®

Municipal wastewater lift stations are vital for moving sewage where gravity alone isn’t sufficient—but they face a persistent challenge: the buildup of fats, oils, and grease (F.O.G.). These substances rise, congeal, and form mats that coat pumps, sensors, walls, and piping, leading to clogs, pump strain, odor complaints, and costly maintenance. Traditional solutions—chemical treatments and frequent manual cleanings—provide temporary relief but are labor-intensive, expensive, and environmentally taxing.

Farmers Branch, Texas, illustrates the challenge. As the city grew, its lift stations experienced increased F.O.G. accumulation. Manual cleaning and chemical dosing required significant labor and cost, straining staff resources. Seeking a more efficient solution, the city partnered with Axis Construction to test Kasco’s HydraForce™ Lift Station Agitator, a continuous water agitation system designed to keep grease and solids suspended rather than allowing them to settle.

By maintaining constant circulation in the wet well, the HydraForce system prevents F.O.G. mats from forming. Within weeks, operators noticed clearer water, reduced odor, and a significant reduction in chemical use. Over the following year, chemical treatments were eliminated entirely, and manual cleanings became routine inspections rather than emergency interventions.

Beyond grease control, continuous agitation minimizes odor, reduces corrosion, keeps solids suspended, and extends the life of pumps and piping. By converting passive wet wells into active treatment zones, municipalities can cut labor, maintenance costs, and chemical consumption while improving system reliability. HydraForce demonstrates a smarter, sustainable approach to lift station management, offering long-term operational benefits and peace of mind for utility operators.