Tennessee Wastewater Operator Practice Exam

If a lift station pump will not start, what is the first thing you should check?

1. Water level in the basin

2. Broken and loose terminal connections

3. Power supply

4. Pump size

The correct answer is: Broken and loose terminal connections

The first aspect to check if a lift station pump will not start is the power supply. Ensuring that there is power reaching the pump is crucial because without power, the pump will be inoperable, regardless of its condition or other factors. Problems with the power supply could include tripped circuit breakers, blown fuses, or issues with the electrical service itself. Once you confirm that power is available, you can then assess other potential issues, such as the condition of connections, water levels, or pump specifications. Without confirming that power is being supplied to the pump first, checking other components may be premature and could lead to unnecessary troubleshooting.