Use and Care Manual

Operation 8
PRIMING THE PUMP
NOTICE: 'Priming' refers to pump expelling all air in the
system and beginning to move water from its source out
into system. It does not refer only to pouring water into
pump (although pouring water in is usually the first step).
NEVER run pump dry. Running pump with-
out water may cause pump to overheat, damaging seal
and possibly causing burns to
persons handling pump. Fill pump with water before
starting.
Step 1. Remove priming plug.
Step 2. Make sure suction and discharge valves and any
hoses on discharge side of pump are open.
Step 3. Fill pump and suction pipe with water (Fig. 5).
Step 4. Replace priming plug, using Teflon tape on
thread; tighten plug.
NOTICE: If priming tee and plug have been pro-
vided for long horizontal run, be sure to fill suc-
tion pipe through this tee and replace plug. (Use
Teflon tape on plug.)
Step 5. Start pump; water should be produced in 10 min-
utes or less, time depends on depth to water (not
more than 20' (6 m)) and length of horizontal run
(10' (3 m) of horizontal suction pipe = 1' (30.5
cm) of vertical lift due to friction losses in pipe).
If no water is produced within 10 minutes, stop
pump, release all pressure, remove priming plug,
refill and try again.
NEVER run pump against closed discharge.
To do so can boil water inside pump, causing hazardous
pressure in unit, risk of explosion and possibly scalding
persons handling pump (Fig. 6). Replace priming plug
with pressure gauge to monitor pressure so that it is not
allowed to exceed maximum pumping pressures accord-
ing to performance chart.
To prevent explosion be sure discharge (valve, pistol grip
hose nozzle, etc.) is open whenever pump is running.
Monitor pump body and piping temperature. Motor will
warm up; this is normal. If pump body or piping begin to
feel warm to touch, shut off pump and allow system to
cool. Release all pressure in system and refill pump and
piping with cold water.
For parts or assistance, call Flotec Customer Service at 1-800-365-6832
647 1293
Figure 5: Fill Pump Before Starting
1117 0993
Figure 6: Do Not Run Pump With Outlet Shut Off