To remove air from a submersible pump, you typically need to bleed it. This involves allowing trapped air to escape until water flows freely. Here's a detailed breakdown:
Why is Air in My Submersible Pump a Problem?
Air trapped inside a submersible pump can cause several issues:
- Reduced Efficiency: Air pockets prevent the pump from effectively moving water.
- Overheating: The pump may run dry due to the air, leading to overheating and potential damage.
- Pump Failure: Prolonged operation with trapped air can significantly shorten the pump's lifespan by damaging internal components.
- Decreased Flow Rate: The air impedes the water flow, resulting in weaker pressure.
Steps to Remove Air (Bleed) From a Submersible Pump:
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Safety First: Disconnect the pump from its power source before attempting any maintenance. This prevents electrical shock.
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Locate the Air Bleed Valve (if present): Not all submersible pumps have a dedicated air bleed valve. It's usually a small screw or valve located on the pump housing, often near the top. Refer to your pump's manual for its exact location. If there isn't a bleed valve, proceed to step 4.
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Open the Air Bleed Valve: Slowly loosen or open the air bleed valve. You should hear air hissing out.
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Submerge the Pump (If Applicable): If the pump is designed to be submerged and is not already, submerge it in water. This helps force the air out.
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Allow Air to Escape: Let the air escape until a steady stream of water flows from the bleed valve (if it has one) or from the pump outlet. This indicates that all the trapped air has been purged. If you don't have a bleed valve, briefly cycling the pump on and off several times under water (if applicable) can help dislodge air pockets.
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Close the Air Bleed Valve (if applicable): Once a steady stream of water is flowing, securely close the air bleed valve.
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Restart the Pump: Reconnect the pump to its power source and turn it on.
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Check Performance: Observe the pump's performance. It should now operate smoothly and deliver water at the expected flow rate and pressure.
Troubleshooting:
- If the pump still doesn't work properly: Repeat the bleeding process. There may be residual air trapped.
- Check for leaks: Inspect the pump and connections for any leaks that could be introducing air.
- Inspect the intake: Ensure the pump's intake is not blocked or sucking in air due to a low water level.
- Consult the manual: Refer to your pump's manual for specific troubleshooting steps.
Prevention:
- Regular Maintenance: Periodically check your pump for air pockets and bleed it as needed.
- Proper Installation: Ensure the pump is installed correctly, according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Maintain Water Level: Ensure the water level is sufficient to keep the pump submerged (if applicable) and prevent it from sucking in air.
By following these steps, you can effectively remove air from your submersible pump and ensure its optimal performance.
