Priming a pump with a foot valve is a simple process that ensures the pump is filled with water before operation, allowing it to create the necessary suction. The reference describes one effective method.
Method for Priming
According to the provided reference, one way to prime a pump equipped with a foot valve is by vigorously shaking the foot valve up and down while keeping it under water. You should continue this shaking motion until the intake hose and pump are completely full of water.
Understanding Why This Works
The foot valve is designed to function as a one-way valve. This means it allows water to flow in one direction (into the intake hose) but prevents it from flowing back out. By shaking it in an "up and down" motion while submerged, you are actively forcing water into the pump. Once the entire system – from the foot valve through the intake hose up to the pump – is filled with water, the pump is primed and ready to operate.
This technique leverages the one-way nature of the foot valve to displace air within the system, filling it with water and enabling the pump to establish suction effectively.
