If the pump is running but the chamber is not emptying, the cause may be a blocked pump, a valve problem, an air lock or a rising main restriction. Keep clear of the chamber and wet electrical equipment, do not enter the chamber, and reduce water use where possible if the level is rising. Photos of the control panel, alarm display, pumps, valves and labels help us assess the whole system before recommending repair, refurbishment or replacement.
Likely causes
If the pump runs but the chamber does not empty, the issue may be a blocked pump, failed non-return valve, closed valve, air lock or rising main restriction. The diagnosis should separate pump faults from control faults, chamber faults and discharge pipework problems. A structured check avoids replacing a pump when the real issue is a float, valve, panel or rising main fault.
- listen for pump operation from a safe position
- check for repeated high level alarms
- do not enter the chamber
- send photos of valves and panel
- note whether flow returns to the chamber
- arrange diagnosis before the chamber overtops
What to do first
Keep clear of chambers, wet electrical equipment and live control panels. Do not enter a confined space. Reduce water use where possible if the chamber level is rising, then send photos of the control panel, chamber, pumps, alarm display and any visible labels. For urgent loss of service, call the pump station engineers directly.
What Alton Pumps can check
Our engineers can review the pumps, float switches, control panel, valves, guide rails, non-return valves, discharge pipework, chamber condition and rising main symptoms before advising on repair, refurbishment or replacement.
How we can help
- listen for pump operation from a safe position
- check for repeated high level alarms
- do not enter the chamber
- send photos of valves and panel
- note whether flow returns to the chamber
- arrange diagnosis before the chamber overtops