Do this first
Cut back water use immediately. Every flush, shower and load of laundry adds water to a basin that isn't emptying.
What the alarm means
A residential lift station collects wastewater in a basin and pumps it up to where it needs to go. A float switch triggers the alarm when the water rises above a safe level - which means the pump isn't keeping up or isn't running at all.
Step by step
- 1Stop or minimize water use in the house.
- 2Check the breaker for the lift station pump. If it tripped, reset it once. If it trips again, leave it off.
- 3Silence the alarm if your panel has a silence button - but don't ignore the problem.
- 4Don't open the basin or reach into it. It contains raw sewage and electrical equipment.
- 5Call for service. If the water keeps rising, it can back up into the house.
Common causes
- A tripped breaker or power outage (common after storms)
- A stuck float - often from grease buildup
- A worn-out or failed pump
- Solids and debris clogging the pump or discharge line
Regular lift station cleaning prevents most float and clog problems before they set off the alarm.
General guidance for homeowners. Every system is different - an on-site inspection is the only way to know the condition of yours.