Originally Posted by MarcB
http:///forum/post/2863331
Hmmm. The system is second hand, and this is the configuration that it was running with for 3 years from what I understand. Both bulkheads were plumbed into a large intake and the outflow was the same in reverse. I was considering two separate pumps, one for each overflow, do you think that would be a better idea?
Oh, also, what brands of pumps are good, and which should be avoided? Thanks
Reeflo
Tips & Troubleshooting
We hope you will find the following suggestions and comments regarding pump installation to be
helpful. We do not claim that any of these suggestions are the only way to accomplish your job,
but in general they will solve many of the commonly found problems and help you prevent many
others.
Please note that ReeFlo pumps are external pumps. Do not submerge!
1. Locate the pump as close to the source as possible. It is best to have your main (longest)
run of pipe on the discharge side of the pump. The pump is designed to push water, not pull it.
2. Always have your inlet pipe diameter equal to, or larger than, the discharge line. This helps
prevent cavitation.
3. Never run a pump dry. This may damage the mechanical seal and impeller. They are
designed to pump fluid, not air. Insure the pump is full of water before you turn it on, and that
it doesn’t out pump the supply.
4. If your pump is producing too much flow, you can reduce the flow by partially closing a
valve on the discharge line. Never restrict the inlet!!! Surprisingly, this will make the motor work
less and use less electricity!! This “valving back” simply causes the pump to operate further back
on its performance curve.
5. If your pump is not producing enough flow. The easiest step is to widen the line especially on
the intake. As illustrated on the chart the narrowness of the line has great bearing on “friction
loss”....think bar straw vs. regular straw.
6. If more flow is required than a single pump can produce, consider using two or more
pumps in parallel. This will double the flow. If more pressure is required consider using two
pumps in series (one feeding into the other). This will have the effect of doubling the pressure.
We have found that using two pumps instead of one larger pump uses an average of 30% less
electricity.
7. Choose a pump that can give you the required flows at the lowest possible power
consumption. Since pumps often operate continuously, the power consumption (watts - not
amps), and its effect on your monthly utility bill can be very significant.
8. Check to be sure the motor electrical connections are set up to match the supply voltage.
9. Install shut off valves before and after the pump, so you can easily remove it from the line
without having to drain your system. Be sure to use ball valves, as they have low friction
loss characteristics.
10. Use Teflon paste (not tape) for sealing threaded joints.
11. Make sure all your pipe joints are airtight. This is especially important on the suction side.
