Sanicubic 2 VX S

Common Sanicubic 2 VX S Problems

The Sanicubic 2 VX S uses two robust vortex hydraulic pumps. However, both motors, the pneumatic level controls, non-return arrangements, electrical equipment and connected pipework still require inspection and maintenance.

From our experience, many faults develop because unsuitable materials enter the lifting station or deposits gradually collect inside the tank and discharge system.

Wet wipes, sanitary products, cleaning cloths and other non-biodegradable materials can obstruct a pump, valve or pipework. In addition, grease, detergent residue, food particles, sediment and limescale may reduce pumping efficiency.

As restrictions increase, one or both pumps may run for longer or activate more frequently. Consequently, motors and service components can operate under unnecessary strain.

Installation quality also affects long-term reliability. Incorrect discharge pipe sizing, unsuitable reducers, unnecessary bends, poor ventilation and restricted service access can all reduce performance.

Because the station serves high-volume installations, early warning signs should never be ignored. A fault that appears minor may become a serious wastewater problem when inflow continues.

Common Symptoms We Repair

Some of the most common Sanicubic 2 VX S problems include:

• One pump does not operate
• Neither pump starts
• One or both pumps run continuously
• High-level warning activates
• Control box reports a fault
• Slow pumping performance
• Water backs up into connected drainage
• Vortex impeller obstruction
• Restricted discharge pipe
• Pneumatic level-control fault
• Non-return valve failure
• Frequent cycling
• Internal leaks
• Electrical faults
• Unusual motor noise
• Bad odours
• Grease or limescale build-up

Every repair starts with a complete diagnosis of both the lifting station and the surrounding installation.

First, we identify the cause. Then, we explain the most suitable repair option and any preventative improvements.

Common Faults We Repair

Customers often contact us after searching for one of the following Sanicubic 2 VX S problems:

• Sanicubic 2 VX S not pumping
• Sanicubic 2 VX S keeps running
• Sanicubic 2 VX S alarm sounding
• One Sanicubic 2 VX S pump not working
• Both vortex pumps not working
• Sanicubic 2 VX S blocked
• Sanicubic 2 VX S leaking
• Duplex vortex lifting station fault
• Vortex impeller obstructed
• Sanicubic control box fault
• Sanicubic pneumatic level fault
• Water backing up into toilets
• Commercial sewage lifting station repair
• Industrial wastewater pump repair

From Our Experience

The Sanicubic 2 VX S combines two important design features: twin-pump capacity and large-bore vortex hydraulics.

Instead of cutting solids with a macerating mechanism, each impeller creates a vortex that moves wastewater through a 50 mm free passage.

This design removes the need for grinder blades and can reduce the risk of certain cutting-mechanism blockages.

The two-pump arrangement also provides greater operating capacity than a comparable single-pump station. Correct control operation helps share demand between the pumps and allows additional pumping capacity when inflow rises.

However, a vortex lifting station is not a waste-disposal system. Wet wipes, sanitary products, textiles, building materials and other unsuitable objects can still obstruct pumps, valves or discharge pipework.

We also find that many operating problems begin outside the tank. An unsuitable reducer, poorly designed discharge route, restricted non-return valve or incorrect ventilation arrangement can affect otherwise serviceable pumps.

For this reason, we inspect the complete installation rather than replacing parts without identifying the cause.

In many cases, removing a restriction or replacing a worn service component provides better value than replacing the complete lifting station.

Our approach remains the same for every Saniflo installation: repair first and replace only when replacement offers better long-term value.

Annual Sanicubic 2 VX S Servicing

Regular servicing helps keep the Sanicubic 2 VX S operating efficiently and reduces the risk of unexpected wastewater disruption.

Because commercial and industrial usage varies considerably, the maintenance interval should reflect actual operating conditions, inflow volume and the importance of the installation.

High-use or business-critical systems may require inspection more frequently than once a year.

What We Check During a Service

During a professional service, we inspect both motors, both vortex impellers and accessible hydraulic components.

We check the pneumatic level-control system, control box, alarm functions, electrical connections, seals, non-return arrangements and accessible isolation valves.

Next, we inspect the tank for unsuitable materials, grease, detergent residue, limescale, sediment and other deposits that may reduce efficiency.

We then test the complete automatic pumping sequence and confirm that both pumps start, pump and stop correctly under the available test conditions.

In addition, we inspect accessible discharge pipework, ventilation and service access.

Early inspection can identify abnormal running times, uneven pump operation and worn components before they cause a complete breakdown. As a result, preventative maintenance may reduce emergency repairs and costly business disruption.

Optional Deep Steam Cleaning

For a higher level of preventative maintenance, we offer optional Deep Steam Cleaning for an additional €60.

High-temperature steam helps remove grease, bacteria, biofilm, soap residue, limescale and unpleasant odours without harsh chemicals.

This additional cleaning can help keep accessible internal surfaces cleaner and reduce unnecessary build-up.

Sanicubic 2 VX S Repairs

Most Sanicubic 2 VX S faults do not automatically require complete replacement. Therefore, every repair begins with professional diagnosis.

First, we establish whether the fault involves one pump, both pumps, the level-control system, control equipment, valves, electrical supply or connected pipework.

We regularly repair Sanicubic systems by replacing motors, seals, non-return components, pneumatic level-control parts, electrical components and other service items where suitable parts remain available.

In addition, we use genuine Saniflo replacement parts where appropriate.

The two-pump design requires a complete assessment. A fault affecting one motor does not necessarily mean that both motors or the tank require replacement.

Likewise, a control or level-sensing problem can affect apparent pump operation even when the hydraulic components remain serviceable.

Because we specialise exclusively in Saniflo products, we understand the differences between standard macerating, grinder and vortex Sanicubic models.

This experience helps prevent incorrect parts or specifications from being applied to the Sanicubic 2 VX S.

After completing a repair, we test the available automatic pumping sequence, control functions and alarm response.

Finally, we inspect the electrical supply and connected discharge system before returning the lifting station to service.

Sanicubic 2 VX S Replacement

Repair usually provides the most economical solution.

However, replacement may offer better long-term value when the tank develops significant damage, both pumping assemblies show extensive wear or repeated major faults make further repairs uneconomical.

Our replacement service includes removing the existing lifting station and installing a suitable genuine SFA Saniflo replacement.

The current SFA Ireland product information uses the name Sanicubic 2 VX L and identifies the single-phase variant as Sanicubic 2 VX S L.

Therefore, before recommending replacement, we confirm the exact existing model, electrical supply, control configuration, dimensions, inlet arrangement and connection requirements.

We reconnect the required inlets, large-bore discharge, ventilation and electrical services. We also inspect the surrounding installation for restrictions, unsuitable alterations and inadequate service access.

Next, we test both pumps, pneumatic activation, control functions and high-level warning system.

Correcting installation problems during replacement can improve reliability and lower future maintenance costs.

The current SFA package no longer includes the previously supplied wired remote alarm as standard. Where remote monitoring is required, we confirm the appropriate compatible alarm or building-management connection before installation.

Our online Quick Quote calculator provides an estimated replacement price for a standard installation.

Large commercial installations may require a site assessment, lifting arrangements, pipework alterations or additional electrical work. If that applies, we will explain the requirements and costs before work begins.

Our Professional Recommendation

The current Sanicubic 2 VX specification uses a large-bore 90 mm or 110 mm external discharge connection.

Therefore, the discharge route must retain a correctly designed large-bore system and must not be reduced to the smaller pipe sizes used by standard macerating Sanicubic models.

Discharge Route and Pipework Design

The correct connection and pipe diameter depend on the selected outlet, calculated flow, vertical lift, horizontal distance, existing drainage design and complete hydraulic assessment.

The discharge should remain as direct as practical and avoid unnecessary bends, abrupt changes of direction and unsuitable reductions.

Correct pipe support, suitable isolation valves and accessible non-return arrangements help the system operate efficiently and simplify future maintenance.

The 50 mm free passage is an internal hydraulic characteristic. It is not a recommendation to reduce the external discharge pipe to 50 mm.

For new installations, we generally favour maintaining the largest practical manufacturer-approved discharge route where the hydraulic design supports it. However, the final pipework must follow the verified project requirements rather than a universal diameter rule.

Ventilation and Service Access

The 75 mm ventilation connection should be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and applicable drainage requirements.

The lifting station, both motors, pneumatic level components, control box and valves must remain accessible for inspection and repair.

Because the unit weighs approximately 101 kg, installation and future replacement also require suitable handling space and safe access.

Alarm and Control Equipment

The control box should remain visible and accessible so that warnings can be recognised promptly.

Where a separate wired alarm or Building Management System connection is installed, it should also be tested during maintenance.

An alarm is an early warning, not a repair. Therefore, wastewater use should be reduced and the cause investigated whenever a fault or high-level warning occurs.

These recommendations reflect our practical experience with Saniflo lifting stations since 2015.

Typical Lifespan of a Sanicubic 2 VX S

A professionally installed and regularly maintained Sanicubic 2 VX S can provide many years of dependable service.

However, there is no single lifespan that applies to every lifting station.

Actual service life depends on operating frequency, wastewater volume, peak demand, unsuitable materials, discharge conditions, installation quality and maintenance history.

The vortex system does not use grinder blades. Nevertheless, both motors, impellers, seals, pneumatic level components, valves and electrical equipment remain subject to normal wear.

The tank may remain serviceable for longer than individual pumping or control components. Therefore, the failure of one part does not automatically mean that the complete lifting station requires replacement.

The twin-pump configuration can distribute operating demand. However, uneven operation, a hidden fault on one pump or repeated high-level conditions can place additional strain on the remaining equipment.

Grease, detergent residue, limescale, sediment and restricted pipework may gradually reduce pumping efficiency.

Regular inspection helps identify abnormal running times, control faults and developing restrictions before they cause a major breakdown.

Where practical, service components can often be repaired or replaced individually.

From our experience, correct installation, sensible everyday use and planned maintenance provide the strongest foundation for reliable long-term operation.

How to Extend the Life of Your Sanicubic 2 VX S

Long-term reliability depends on correct installation, suitable wastewater input, prompt attention to warning signs and preventative maintenance.

Use the System Correctly

The Sanicubic 2 VX S handles normal black water and grey water. However, it should not be used as a general waste-disposal system.

To help protect both pumps and the discharge system, avoid allowing the following materials to enter the installation:

• Wet wipes
• Sanitary towels and tampons
• Nappies
• Cleaning cloths
• Paper towels
• Cotton buds
• Dental floss
• Large quantities of cooking grease
• Food waste
• Cat litter
• Plastic packaging
• String, rope or textiles
• Building materials
• Paint residue
• Metal objects
• Any unsuitable non-biodegradable materials

Respond to Early Warning Signs

Do not ignore a control-box warning, remote alarm, unusual noise, longer pumping cycle, frequent activation or slow drainage.

Where one pump appears to operate differently from the other, arrange an inspection rather than relying indefinitely on the remaining pump.

Early investigation may prevent a minor restriction or worn component from developing into a complete loss of service.

Maintain Access and Arrange Servicing

Keep the lifting station, control equipment, isolation valves, non-return arrangements and inspection points accessible.

In addition, arrange maintenance at intervals appropriate to the actual workload and importance of the installation.

Clear access allows faults to be diagnosed more efficiently and can reduce labour time during servicing or repairs.

Why Choose Saniflo.Irish?

Large duplex vortex lifting stations require specialist product knowledge and a complete understanding of their hydraulic, control and alarm systems.

At Saniflo.Irish, we specialise exclusively in Saniflo products.

As an Approved Saniflo Engineer authorised by SFA Saniflo, we have serviced, repaired and replaced Saniflo systems since 2015.

We work throughout Dublin and the surrounding counties.

Our experience includes standard macerating lifting stations, grinder systems and large-bore vortex installations.

Therefore, we can identify the correct product generation and avoid applying specifications from a different Sanicubic model.

Every service visit begins with an inspection of the lifting station and surrounding installation.

First, we identify the true cause of the problem. Then, we explain the most suitable repair options and any recommended preventative work.

We focus on honest advice, transparent pricing and practical long-term solutions.

If we can repair your Sanicubic 2 VX S economically, we will recommend repair first.

However, if replacement offers better long-term value, we will explain the reasons clearly.

Our objective is to restore reliable operation without recommending unnecessary parts or premature replacement.

Request Your Sanicubic 2 VX S Quote

Whether your Sanicubic 2 VX S needs preventative servicing, professional repair or complete replacement, we are ready to help.

Our online Quick Quote calculator provides an estimated price for many popular services.

Simply select the service you need and submit your enquiry. Afterwards, we will review the details and contact you to arrange a suitable appointment.

We always aim to minimise disruption to your building or business.

If you are unsure whether to repair or replace your Sanicubic 2 VX S, we can inspect the existing lifting station and provide honest advice based on its condition.

In many cases, routine maintenance or replacement of worn service components can restore reliable operation.

Large lifting stations may require additional information before a final quotation. Photographs of the unit, control box, pipework and access route can help us assess the installation.

Our objective is simple: keep your wastewater system operating efficiently while avoiding unnecessary replacement and unexpected drainage failures.

Get Your Sanicubic 2 VX S Estimate