Investigating Sewer Pump Failures and Wastewater Overflow Issues
Our team attended a property in Yagoona to investigate a failed sewer pump system after reports of overflow and drainage problems within the property. Sewer pump systems play an important role in moving wastewater where gravity drainage is not possible, so when a system stops operating correctly, wastewater can quickly back up and create serious issues.
For this project, Pure Plumbing Professionals carried out a full Pump System Diagnostics investigation to identify the cause of the failure and assess the condition of the tank, pumps, and electrical controls.
Why Sewer Pump Systems Fail
Sewer pump systems rely on several components working together, including:
- Pumps
- Float switches
- Electrical control boards
- Pipework and discharge lines
If one component fails, the entire system can stop operating correctly.
Common causes of sewer pump failure include:
- Blockages from unsuitable materials
- Pump overheating
- Electrical faults
- Structural damage within the tank
In this case, the system had experienced multiple issues affecting both operation and safety.
Inspecting the Sewer Pump Tank
On arrival, our team inspected the sewer pump tank and identified signs of overflow into the backyard area.
Further inspection revealed:
- The tank was partially full
- The pumps were not receiving power
- The tank structure was cracked and damaged
Structural damage to sewer tanks is a serious issue because it can allow wastewater to escape and may compromise the safety of the system.
At Pure Plumbing Professionals, safety is a key part of all Drainage Investigation and pump system work.
Accessing the Internal Pump Components
To properly assess the system, the tank lid was removed and internal inspection procedures were carried out.
Following appropriate confined space and safety procedures, our team accessed the tank to inspect the internal components and pump assembly.
The pump was disconnected and removed from the pipework for further testing and inspection.
Identifying the Cause of the Pump Failure
During inspection, a blockage caused by sanitary wipes was found obstructing the pump.
Materials such as wipes are one of the most common causes of sewer pump problems because they do not break down properly within wastewater systems.
After clearing the obstruction, the pump was tested. However, the unit overheated and failed to operate correctly, confirming the pump itself had also failed.
This highlighted that the issue was not caused by a blockage alone.
Diagnosing the Electrical Fault
Further testing was carried out on the system’s electrical controls.
Inspection of the control board identified a faulty relay preventing correct pump operation and affecting the power supply to the system.
Electrical faults are a common issue in ageing sewer pump systems and can prevent pumps from activating even when wastewater levels rise.
Findings and Recommended Repairs
Following the investigation, several major faults were identified:
- Cracked and structurally compromised sewer tank
- Non-functional sewer pumps
- Faulty electrical relay within the control board
Due to the condition of the system, replacement of the tank and pumps was recommended, along with repair or replacement of the electrical controls.
What Most Homeowners Don’t Realise About Sewer Pump Systems
Unlike standard gravity drainage, sewer pump systems rely on both mechanical and electrical components.
Many homeowners are unaware that:
- Wipes and sanitary products can damage pumps
- Electrical faults can stop pumps from activating
- Tanks can crack over time due to ground movement or ageing
- Regular servicing helps prevent emergency failures
This is why ongoing Wastewater System Maintenance is important for properties using pump systems.
When Sewer Pump Diagnostics Are Required
Pump system investigations are typically needed when:
- Wastewater overflows occur
- Drains stop functioning properly
- Pumps fail to activate
- Alarm systems activate repeatedly
- Strong wastewater odours are present
Early diagnosis helps prevent larger failures and property damage.
Sewer Pump and Drainage Services in Yagoona
Properties in Yagoona with pump-assisted drainage systems require professional maintenance and fault diagnosis to ensure reliable operation.
The team at Pure Plumbing Professionals provides:
- Sewer Pump Repairs
- Pump System Diagnostics
- Drainage Investigation
- Wastewater system fault finding
- Ongoing Wastewater System Maintenance
Each investigation is carried out with a focus on safety, accurate diagnosis, and long-term system reliability.
If your sewer pump system is overflowing, failing to operate, or showing signs of malfunction, a professional inspection can identify the issue before further damage occurs.
Call 0483 915 451 to speak with our team or click Book Now to arrange an inspection.
