Refurbishment of a Key Pump Station at a Residential Care Home in Oxford
Client: Residential Care Home
Location: Oxford
Service: Sewage Pump Replacement
The Challenge
A key pump station required a full refurbishment due to ageing components and electrical inefficiencies. The existing system featured outdated pumps, pedestals, floats, and a control panel located in an inaccessible loft space. In addition, the cabling infrastructure was inadequate, and the rising main pipework showed signs of damage. The chamber also presented confined space constraints and required careful management of foul waste during the works. The key challenge was to complete the job safely and efficiently while maintaining access for ongoing operations.
The Execution
Two Metro Rod engineers were assigned to the 5-day project, supported by a subcontracted electrician. The works commenced with power isolation and excavation to expose the existing corrugated conduit containing the old pump cabling. This conduit was found to be full of foul waste, requiring additional pumping and clearance.
Efforts then shifted to tracing and locating the correct ducting for the new cable route. Using CAT and Genny equipment, the team identified and exposed the ducting next to the building, enabling the electrician to install a new armoured 230V power cable.
Simultaneously, the team removed the old floats, junction boxes, and cabling from the loft space and installed the new control panel and kiosk on a reinforced concrete base. Once the concrete had fully cured, new corrugated pipe was laid from the kiosk to the pump chamber, allowing the new cabling to be pulled through and hardwired into the panel.
Mechanical works involved removing the damaged pedestal and rising main pipework. Once the new pedestals were in place, the team fitted the new DN65 single rail guide system and brackets. Replacement pipework was installed, tested, and found to be leak-free. Throughout the works, the team maintained a clean and safe site, with all excavated areas barriered off and tidied before departure.
The Outcome
The pump station was successfully upgraded within the scheduled timeframe. The new Ama Porter 603 NE 240V pumps, complete with dual float controls and battery backup, are now operating reliably. The relocation of the control panel has improved accessibility and future maintenance, while the new kiosk with beacon provides better system visibility.
The site was handed over clean and operational, with no reported issues. The coordinated effort between engineers, subcontractors, and support services ensured the works were delivered on time, safely, and to specification.
If you’re looking to upgrade or maintain your pump infrastructure with minimal disruption, Metro Rod is here to help. Whether it’s a full refurbishment or targeted maintenance, we provide tailored solutions designed for safety, efficiency, and long-term reliability. Get in touch today to discuss your requirements and find out how Metro Rod can support your site operations. We’re always happy to arrange a free site visit and a no-obligation quote.
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