INSTALLATION
Physical Installation
5
INSTALLATION
Physical Installation
1.
Pump must be installed in a suitable basin that is at least 18" in diameter and 24" deep in accordance
with local plumbing codes.
2. Clean any debris from the basin and set the pump in the center of the basin (refer to
).
3. The pump must be placed on a hard, level surface. Never place the pump directly on clay, earth or
gravel surfaces. These surfaces contain small stones, gravel, sand etc. that may clog or damage the
pump and cause pump failure.
4. Do not attempt to restrict the intake side of these pumps. Restricting the intake may cause damage to
the seal and may starve the pump. If you require reduced flow rates, place a valve on the discharge side
of the pump. Or, if flexible vinyl tubing is used, a clamp can be used on the tubing to restrict the flow.
5. Connect discharge piping. Use pipe joint compound at all connections. Sump pumps can be piped to
discharge into the house drainage system, to a dry well, splash block, or to a storm drain, depending on
local plumbing codes. The discharge pipe should be as short as possible and contain as few elbows as
possible. The discharge pipe should be the same diameter, or larger than, the pump discharge size. A
smaller pipe will restrict capacity and reduce pump performance. The pump comes with a 1-1/2" female
pipe thread discharge
and a 1-1/4” FNPT reducing bushing
.
•
Support the pump and piping while assembling and when installed. Failure to do so may cause the
piping to break, the pump to fail, motor bearing failures, etc.
•
Always install a union in the discharge line just above the basin cover to allow for easy removal of
the pump for cleaning or repair.
6. A full flow check valve must be used in the discharge line to prevent back-flow of liquid into the basin.
A missing, improperly installed or malfunctioning check valve can cause a pump to short-cycle due to
backflow of the pumped fluid from the discharge plumbing back into the basin, significantly shortening
the life of the pump.
7. Tape the pump and switch cords to the discharge pipe with electrical tape to keep the power cords
securely routed away from the pump inlet and any control floats.
IMPORTANT:
Automatic models using a diaphragm switch include a breather tube that runs through
the power cord. On models with a hardwired connection, this tube extends from the end of the cord. On
models with a plug, the tube is integrated into the plug. Be sure the tube is not obstructed, pinched, or
kinked during installation.
Risk of severe injury or death by electrical shock.
•
Always disconnect the electrical power before touching the pump or discharge.
•
Check local electrical and building codes before installation. The installation must be in accordance
with their regulations as well as the most recent National Electrical Code (NEC).
Risk of property damage due to flooding.
•
When a check valve is used, drill a relief hole (1/8" or 3/16" in diameter) in the discharge pipe. This
hole should be located below the floor line between the pump discharge and the check valve. Unless
such a relief hole is provided, the pump could “air lock” and will not pump water even though it will
run.
