Operating a public water system comes with a tremendous responsibility. In addition to complying with complex federal and state regulations and reporting requirements, you must properly maintain your public water system to protect your equipment and ensure its continued reliability. An important part of maintaining your PWS is taking good care of your pump house. In this month’s blog, the water treatment specialists at Secondwind Water Systems share important pump house maintenance tips for public water systems.
Inspect Your Pump House Roof and Ceiling
Take a good look at your roof to ensure that fallen tree limbs and other debris haven’t caused any damage. Make sure your vents aren’t blocked and keep an eye out for damaged or missing shingles. Over time, roof damage can lead to leaks, so it’s important to make sure your roof is in good shape. Inspect your ceiling, looking for any obvious deterioration. Make sure your insulation isn’t wet, falling down, or becoming a hazard. Check to make sure your vents aren’t exposed or developing other issues, including water leaks or moisture.
Keep a Watchful Eye on Your Walls
Over time, the walls of your pump house can deteriorate. Cracks and holes can develop, letting in moisture and exposing your water system to the elements. Make note of any issues with your walls and keep an eye on them.
Look out for Critters!
Give your pump house a thorough visual inspection. Look inside, outside, and all around for signs of insects or rodents.
Clear the Road and Walking Path to Your Pump House and Well
For accessibility and safety reasons, the road and walking path to your pump house should be clear all year long. Cut back any growth as needed and remove any fallen tree limbs or other debris that obstructs the entrance. During the winter months, the road should be plowed, and a clear walking path to your pump house and well should be maintained at all times. “It’s the pump station owner’s responsibility to ensure access. If we can’t get into your pump house or well, we can’t perform the necessary testing and services,” explains Steve Guercia, commercial and public water systems manager at Secondwind Water Systems.
Think Ahead
Perform a visual inspection of the area surrounding your pump house, well, and storage tank. In addition to identifying any immediate concerns, consider future issues. For example, are there any trees or shrubs that should be cut back before they have a chance to grow into much larger (and costly) problems? Keep an eye on any slope or erosion issues with the road to your pump house. While you’re looking around, make sure your well is at proper height, and is sealed, dry, and sanitary.
Keep it Warm
Ensure your pump house heating system is in good working order and set above 50 degrees Fahrenheit. You don’t want your pipes freezing or bursting, which could lead to costly damage. Before the cold weather comes, make sure that your circuitry is adequate for plug-in space heaters, should they be required.
Get a Generator
Power outages are common during winter storms and a generator, while a financial investment, can save you from a very expensive situation.
Public Water System Inspection and Cleaning in NH
Like any complex system, a public water system needs an annual inspection and cleaning to ensure its safe and proper functioning. When you schedule your annual PWS inspection and cleaning with the Secondwind team, we will conduct a thorough check on entire system–including your pump house–and report any issues or concerns back to you. This is part of our Signature PWS service. Contact us today to learn more.
