To prime a submersible sump pump (especially if it's being used in a non-submersible application or after certain maintenance), you need to manually fill the pump and the suction pipe with water before starting it. This ensures the pump can properly draw water and avoid running dry.
Priming Process:
-
Ensure Power is Off: Disconnect the sump pump from its power source to prevent any electrical hazards during the priming process.
-
Access the Pump: Locate the pump and the connected suction pipe. This step may vary depending on your setup. If it's already submerged in a sump pit, you likely won't need to prime it. Priming is usually necessary when the pump is used outside its normal submerged environment or after maintenance that introduced air into the system.
-
Locate the Priming Plug (if applicable): Some pumps have a priming plug or vent. If your pump has one, locate it. This is usually a small screw or plug on the pump housing. Loosen this plug.
-
Fill with Water: Carefully fill the pump housing and the suction pipe with water. If your pump doesn't have a priming plug, you may need to pour the water directly into the suction pipe. If it does have a priming plug, add water slowly through the space around the plug.
-
Re-secure or Loosen the Priming Plug (if applicable): If your pump has a priming plug, replace it loosely. The looseness allows air to escape as the pump starts. If it doesn't have a priming plug, skip this step.
-
Restore Power and Start the Pump: Plug the sump pump back into its power source. Turn the pump on.
-
Monitor and Adjust: Observe if the pump starts delivering water.
- Successful Prime: If the pump delivers water, let it run for a short time to ensure continuous flow. Then, if applicable, tighten the priming plug.
- Failed Prime: If the pump doesn't deliver water within approximately 15 seconds, turn it off immediately. Running the pump dry can damage it.
-
Repeat if Necessary: If the pump doesn't prime on the first attempt, repeat steps 4-7. It may take several attempts to remove all the air from the system.
Why Priming is Important:
Sump pumps, like many centrifugal pumps, rely on having water present in the pump housing to create the necessary suction for drawing more water. If the pump runs dry, it can damage the impeller and seals, and it won't be able to pump water effectively.
Example Scenario:
Imagine you've used a submersible sump pump to drain a hot tub. After the hot tub is empty, and before storing the pump, it's a good idea to run clean water through it to flush out any residual chemicals. Because the pump is no longer submerged, you'll need to prime it before running it with the clean water.
