UNDERSTAND PRIMING AND PUMP OPERATION
kinetic energy into static pressure allowing the pump to maintain pressure and is then forced out of the pumps discharge
port resulting in continuous water flow for your waterscape oasis.
The Teton® XTP Ecostream Primer Pump is considered a “true” self-priming pump. This means it is designed to prime and operate at
varying heights up to 9 feet above the water source surface as well as varying horizontal lengths. It is important to note that
operating at maximum suction lift height may negatively affect the pumps overall performance. If after starting the pump you
notice it takes more than three minutes for water to start flowing into the priming pot after being filled with water and energized,
it is recommended to install a rubber flapper type swing check valve. The valve should be as low and as close to your source
water as possible to maintain constant pressure and shorten prime time. The best location can even be underwater when
possible as this can provide an airtight fit even without PVC adhesive. Some swing check valves have true union connection
fittings that offer easier access for cleaning when needed.
What to expect for priming cycle
with
swing check valve installed.
Essentially, when utilizing a properly installed swing check valve the priming process is less time consuming and is more effcient.
When installing a swing check valve, be sure your connections are properly seated and airtight. Then, simply fill the priming pot
with water until the intake plumbing and priming pot are full. Replace the lid, securing tightly and turn on your pump. With the
swing check valve in place your pump is fully primed from the beginning. However, if after running your pump you observe the
water level in the strainer pot decreasing continuously, this indicates there is either a blockage limiting the flow or a union fitting,
connection on the intake pipe or lid is not airtight. Check all connections for debris, crimping, or cracking and re-tighten or
replace parts as needed.
The Basics
The Prime
With Valve
No Valve
Teton
Page 3
Your pump is powered by an electric motor that directly affects your water flow rate. When the electric motor is turned on it
utilizes centrifugal force to generate velocity of the water. The water then flows into the strainer pot from the water source,
filtering out debris. Water continues its flow into the eye of the impeller where the water meets the impeller vanes and converts
What to expect for priming cycle
without
a swing check valve installed.
In installation applications where the pump and plumbing are above the water level and no swing check valve is installed, the
priming process will work as listed in the installation instructions on page 5. In this application the internal pressure in the pipe
drops below outside barometric pressure which allows this pressure to slowly push water toward the pump. This slow push
results in a longer priming cycle. It is important to note that the incoming water flow may initially be very little or non-existent
for the first few minutes. If three minutes pass with no water flowing into the priming pot, the pump should be shut off,
connections rechecked, water refilled and system restarted.
With a valve or without a valve, the time it takes for your pump to complete the prime cycle is based on a variety of factors
including pipe type, diameter, suction lift height, horizontal distance, motor speed and horsepower. The entire cycle can range
from one to fifteen minutes to complete; however, as noted above, you should see water flowing into the pump within three
minutes or less.
Never use a spring loaded check valve as it will reduce or stop flow.
For system specifc assessments including suction lift and friction loss guidance and operating questions,
visit
www.tetonus.com
or email [email protected]
