What to Do During a Pump Breakdown in Weymouth or Dorset
First steps when a pump fails
A pump breakdown can be stressful, particularly where wastewater levels are rising. The first step is to establish whether the failure is isolated to the pump or whether there is a wider control, power, blockage or discharge problem.
Check the obvious causes safely
Where it is safe and appropriate for site staff to do so, check whether there is a visible alarm, loss of incoming power or an obvious external issue. Electrical panels and pumps should only be inspected or worked on by suitably competent people.
Common causes of failure
- Blocked or restricted impeller
- Faulty float or level control
- Electrical supply or control fault
- Motor overload or thermal trip
- Worn pump components
- Blocked discharge or non-return valve
What happens during an engineer call-out?
An engineer can assess the installation, test the controls and pump, identify the cause of failure and advise on the repair. If pumping capacity cannot be restored immediately, temporary tankering may be considered to manage levels while permanent repairs are arranged.
Preventing repeat breakdowns
Once the immediate problem has been resolved, it is worth looking at why the failure occurred. Planned servicing, wet-well cleaning, pump condition checks and control inspections can help reduce repeat failures, particularly on heavily used installations.
For emergency pump and drainage support in Weymouth, Portland, Dorchester and surrounding Dorset, call Midland Pumps on 0800 181 4881.