PROBLEM:
A rehabilitation and senior care center in North Wales, Pennsylvania, faced persistent challenges with its sewage pumping system. The existing duplex pump system, ill-equipped to handle the highly aggressive influent of the facility’s laundry operations, requires immediate attention.
The laundry process involved significant use of bleach, which lead to high concentrations of chlorine that corroded the pumps’ impellers, compromising the system’s performance necessitates frequent and costly repairs.
Additionally, the system was plagued by raw sewage inflows that included disposable wipes and other ragging materials. These materials often caused severe clogs, further straining the system and increasing the risk of backups. Compounding these issues, the cast iron basin had developed cracks, leading to leaching fluids that posed environmental concerns. The facility was burdened with an average annual maintenance cost of $17,000, a significant financial strain.
The combination of mechanical failures, high maintenance costs, and potential environmental hazards underscores the urgent need for a more cost-effective and efficient solution.
SOLUTION:
An OverWatch® Direct In-Line Pump system was installed to eliminate the persistent issues. Durable 304L stainless steel construction effectively resists corrosion despite the high concentrations of chlorine required for sanitation. Unlike traditional pumping systems, the OverWatch® system utilizes patented technology to lift influent directly from the point of entry, eliminating the need for a holding basin & significantly reduces the risk of corrosion, extending the equipment’s lifespan.
By transitioning to OverWatch®, the facility converted the cast iron basin into a clean, dry pit, avoiding the costly replacement that would have exceeded $50,000. The installation was strategically planned for an overnight shutdown, ensuring that critical
laundry operations—essential for the center’s daily functioning—would continue without disruption.
This solution delivered financial relief, eliminating $17,000 annual maintenance costs and operational challenges. Removing the retained sewage greatly reduced exposure to dangerous gases and odors, enhancing safety and comfort.
Costs Eliminated per Year: $76,000
- Annual repairs to Line shaft pumps – $17,000
- Savings in replacing basin- $50,000
- 3 days of outsourced Laundry – $9,000
