QED AutoPump AP-3, Operation Manual

Page: 69 / 119

QED Environmental Systems
AP-3 Manual
Page 60
Troubleshooting
1. Air Supply :
• If the air pressure is too low, or if the flow is severely restricted, the pump will not
cycle. Check the flow by inserting the pump air fitting part way into the air line
socket. A healthy discharge of air should result.
• If the air pressure exceeds the design limitations of the pump, the pump may fail
to cycle, or the exhaust valve may have locked up and cause air to enter the fluid
discharge.
2. Fluid Level :
• The fluid level must be above the fluid inlet on a Top-Loading pump. On a Bottom-
Loading pump, the fluid must be no lower than 11 inches (Short pump) or 12 inches
(Long pump) below the head of the pump.
3. Air Exhaust Restricted :
• The exhaust line must not be kinked, plugged, or too small in diameter.
• The air exhaust outlet must be above the fluid level.
• If the air exhausts in the well, the well must be vented to the atmosphere or a
functioning vapor recovery line.
• If the air exhausts to the atmosphere (outside the well) and a vacuum is drawn on
the well, the pump may fail to fill. In order for the pump to fill under these adverse
conditions, the pump must be submerged to make up for the pressure difference
between the atmosphere and the partial vacuum in the well.
The pressure difference, expressed as feet of water column (FT. W. C.), is how far the
fluid must be above the pump before it can fill.
• See Appendix D if there is a vacuum on the well.
• Ice may be forming on the exhaust valve seat due to the temperature drop that
accompanies expansion of compressed air. Restrict the exhaust to lower the
expansion rate of the exhaust. Restrict the air inlet hose or lower the pressure to
reduce the rate of incoming compressed air. The previous three suggestions may
reduce the flow rate from the pump. Submerge the head of the pump, if it is not
already submerged. Protect the air lines from low temperatures and freezing by
burial or insulation.