What’s the Difference Between a Lift Station and a Pump Station?

If you work in wastewater, utilities, or construction, you’ve likely heard the terms pump station, lift station, wet well, and manhole. These structures often work together, but each plays a different role. Confusing them can lead to design issues, permitting delays, or project errors.

In this guide, we’ll break down what’s the difference between a lift station and a pump station, and how wet wells and manholes fit into the picture.

Our CEO, Lisa Roache, is inspecting the lift station coating.

What’s the Difference Between a Lift Station and a Pump Station?

To understand what’s the difference between a lift station and a pump station, you first need to know that all lift stations are pump stations, but not all pump stations are lift stations.

Here’s the simple breakdown:

• Pump Station

  • A broad term for any system that uses pumps to move liquids (water, stormwater, wastewater, industrial water, etc.).

• Lift Station

  • A type of pump station designed specifically for wastewater, moving it from lower elevations to higher ones.

Quick Comparison

Pump Station

A pump station can handle multiple liquid types and is used across many industries.

Key Facts:

• Moves any liquid: water, stormwater, wastewater.

• Includes pumps, piping, controls, and electrical.

• Often includes holding capacity.

• Can be built from precast concrete or steel.

• Designed to transfer liquids from one point to another.

Lift Station

A lift station is a specialized pump station used only for wastewater systems.

Key Facts:

• Moves wastewater from low to high elevation.

• Fully equipped with pumps and internal mechanicals.

• Includes an access hatch for service.

• Often requires coatings or liners for corrosion protection.

• Used when gravity flow is not possible.

This is the most critical area where people ask,

“What’s the difference between a lift station and a pump station?”

→ A lift station is simply a wastewater-specific pump station.

Wet Well

A wet well is the concrete structure that stores wastewater before it becomes a lift station. It does not have internal mechanical equipment.

Key Facts:

• Provides holding capacity.

• Built from precast concrete.

• Typically lined or coated to resist corrosion.

• Includes a hatch for pump installation.

• Becomes part of the lift station once pumps and internals are added.

Manhole

A manhole is not designed for pumping; it’s built for access.

Key Facts:

• No pumps or mechanical equipment.

• Minimal or no holding capacity.

• Used for inspection and maintenance.

• Standard manhole cover (no hatch for pumps).

• Often smaller and simpler than a wet well.

Side-by-Side Comparison Chart

Feature	Pump Station	Lift Station	Wet Well	Manhole
Definition	A general term for a system that moves liquids from one point to another using pumps. Can handle water, wastewater, or stormwater.	A type of pump station specifically designed for wastewater. Includes pumps, piping, and electrical components.	The concrete structure that holds wastewater and later becomes part of a lift station when pumps are added.	A vertical access structure that allows inspection or maintenance of underground utilities.
Includes Pumps?	Yes	Yes	No	No
Fluid Type	Water, wastewater, or stormwater	Wastewater	Wastewater	Any utility (not used for pumping)
Holding Capacity	Often	Yes	Yes	Minimal
Liner/Coating Options	Often includes protective coatings	Often includes coatings or liners	Usually specified with liner or admixtures	Rare
Access Hatch	Yes	Yes	Yes	Standard cover only
Purpose	Transfers liquids using pumps and controls	Moves wastewater from lower to higher elevations	Stores and transitions wastewater before pumping	Provides access for inspection or cleaning

Why Understanding the Differences Matters

Misunderstanding these terms can cause:

• Incorrect equipment sizing

• Delays in permitting

• Incorrect structure ordering

• Installation issues

• Increased project cost

Knowing what’s the difference between a lift station and a pump station helps engineers, contractors, and owners choose the right system from the start.

Contact Us

Pump stations, lift stations, wet wells, and manholes may work together, but they serve very different purposes. Recognizing the differences keeps your project running smoothly, reduces maintenance issues, and ensures wastewater moves safely through your system.

If you need support designing or selecting the right wastewater structure, Gainey’s is a partner you can rely on to create unique, thoughtful solutions for civil engineering challenges. Contact us, today!