Clean Water Separator Service Cost Estimates
Basic Inspection and Maintenance
Includes visual inspection, basic cleaning, and testing of basic functions.
Estimated time: 1-2 hours
Cost range: $125-$250
Filter Replacement Service
Includes removal of old filters, installation of new filters, and system testing.
Estimated time: 2-3 hours
Cost range: $250-$375
Coalescer Element Replacement
Includes removal of old coalescer elements, installation of new elements, and system testing.
Estimated time: 3-4 hours
Cost range: $375-$500
Complete System Cleaning
Includes thorough cleaning of all components, inspection of seals, and full system testing.
Estimated time: 4-6 hours
Cost range: $500-$750
Major Repair Service
Includes replacement of major components, complete system overhaul, and extensive testing.
Estimated time: 6-8 hours
Cost range: $750-$1,000
Note: These are estimated costs based on our standard rate of $125/hour. Additional parts and materials are not included in these estimates. Actual costs may vary depending on the specific condition and requirements of your system.
Clean Water Separator Repair Procedures by Type
Coalescing Separator
Typical Repair Steps:
- Shut down system and isolate separator
- Release pressure and drain fluid
- Remove access covers
- Extract coalescing elements
- Inspect elements for damage or saturation
- Clean or replace coalescing elements as needed
- Check and clean collection sump
- Inspect gaskets and seals, replace if worn
- Reassemble unit with new/cleaned elements
- Pressure test system before full operation
Gravity Separator
Typical Repair Steps:
- Drain separator completely
- Remove inspection plates
- Clean accumulated sludge from bottom
- Inspect internal baffles and plates
- Repair or replace corroded components
- Check float switches and level controls
- Clean oil skimmer mechanism
- Replace worn gaskets
- Reassemble unit
- Fill and test operation
Centrifugal Separator
Typical Repair Steps:
- Power down and lock out equipment
- Drain system fluids
- Remove separator housing
- Inspect centrifuge assembly
- Check bearings and seals
- Replace worn bearings
- Clean all internal components
- Lubricate moving parts
- Reassemble unit
- Test rotation and operation
Hydrocyclone Separator
Typical Repair Steps:
- Shut off inlet flow
- Depressurize system
- Remove cyclone assembly
- Inspect liner for wear
- Check apex and vortex finder condition
- Replace worn components
- Clean all passages
- Check pressure gauges
- Reinstall cyclone assembly
- Test pressure differential
Important Safety Notes:
- Always follow manufacturer's specific guidelines
- Use appropriate PPE during repairs
- Ensure proper disposal of waste materials
- Document all maintenance procedures
- Consider professional service for complex repairs
Note: These are general repair procedures. Specific models may require additional or different steps. Always consult the manufacturer's manual before attempting repairs.
Understanding Clean Water Separators

A Clean Water Separator (CWS) is a specialized piece of equipment designed to remove contaminants from water streams. Here are the main types and their functions:
Oil-Water Separator
What it is:A device designed to separate oil and other petroleum products from water.
What it does:Uses gravity and the difference in density between oil and water to separate these substances. Oil floats to the top while clean water remains at the bottom, allowing for easy removal of the oil and discharge of clean water.
Coalescing Separator
What it is:An advanced separation system that uses special coalescing media.
What it does:Small oil droplets stick to the coalescing material and combine to form larger droplets, which then rise to the surface more easily. This results in more efficient oil-water separation than traditional gravity separators.
Hydrocyclone Separator
What it is:A separator that uses centrifugal force to separate particles from water.
What it does:Creates a spinning motion that forces heavier particles to the outer walls while cleaner water moves toward the center. This allows for effective separation of solids and other contaminants from water.
API Separator
What it is:A type of gravity separator designed according to American Petroleum Institute standards.
What it does:Provides sufficient retention time and proper conditions for oil to separate from water in large-scale industrial applications. Commonly used in refineries and petrochemical plants.
Dissolved Air Flotation (DAF) Separator
What it is:A water treatment system that uses air bubbles to separate contaminants.
What it does:Introduces fine air bubbles into the water, which attach to suspended particles and float them to the surface for removal. Effective for removing oils, greases, and fine suspended solids.
Note: The choice of separator depends on your specific application, water quality requirements, and flow rates. Contact our experts for guidance on selecting the right separator for your needs.
Common Failure Symptoms of Clean Water Separator Systems
Clean Water Separator Maintenance Guide
Coalescing Separator
Signs of Failure:
- Visible oil in discharge water
- Excessive pressure drop across the unit
- Damaged or deteriorated coalescing media
- Unusual noises during operation
Service Schedule:
- Inspect coalescing elements every 3-6 months
- Clean or replace elements annually or when pressure drop exceeds manufacturer specifications
- Check oil collection chamber monthly
- Test effluent quality quarterly
Gravity Separator
Signs of Failure:
- Oil breakthrough in effluent
- Sediment buildup affecting flow patterns
- Corrosion or structural damage
- Floating debris in separation chamber
Service Schedule:
- Remove accumulated sludge every 6-12 months
- Inspect baffles and weirs quarterly
- Clean walls and surfaces annually
- Monitor oil accumulation monthly
Centrifugal Separator
Signs of Failure:
- Vibration during operation
- Reduced separation efficiency
- Unusual bearing noise
- Inconsistent discharge quality
Service Schedule:
- Check bearings monthly
- Lubricate moving parts quarterly
- Inspect seals every 6 months
- Complete system overhaul every 2-3 years
Membrane Separator
Signs of Failure:
- Reduced flow rate
- Poor separation quality
- Membrane fouling or damage
- Increased operating pressure
Service Schedule:
- Clean membranes monthly or as needed
- Replace membranes every 2-5 years
- Monitor pressure differential daily
- Perform chemical cleaning quarterly
Note: Actual maintenance schedules may vary based on usage, manufacturer recommendations, and specific operating conditions. Always consult your equipment manual for detailed maintenance instructions.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.