A great pumping system begins with a great installation!
At FloRight Pump & Controls, we handle pump installations and pump repairs all the time – and in so many cases, pump repairs could have been avoided if the installation had been done properly in the first place. So, let’s look at some of the most important aspects of pump installation which can lead to costly repairs later, if they’re mishandled.
Five Critical Aspects to Focus on In Pump Installation
1 – A proper foundation
Too many pump installations skimp on the foundation, or skip it entirely – and that’s downright silly, considering how easily water can cause the ground beneath your pump to shift. A good foundation for the pump should be roughly 3 to 5 times the overall mass of the pump + driver, to ensure they remain stable.
Plus, of course, the foundation should be as level as possible before installation proceeds.
2 – Grout around the base
Another aspect that’s often overlooked, grouting is necessary to ensure the base of the pump remains firmly attached to the foundation, without moving around due to vibration. Physical connectors like bolts should not be solely relied on to keep the pump in place.
3 – The right lubrication
Different pump models are designed to use specific types of lubrication, which are always described in the manufacturer’s documentation. This is not an optional choice. Using any lubrication except those recommended by the manufacturer can quickly lead to burnout and costly pump repairs.
4 – Pipe away from the pump, not towards
The pump is not designed to solely support the pipe coming off it – most of the weight should rest on the ground. For this reason, it’s always considered best practice to begin the pipe at the pump, to get it in contact with the ground as soon as possible, rather than starting at the end and piping towards the pump.
5 – Pre-checks
A pump system should always be thoroughly inspected and checked prior to being turned on at full power. There should be at least one test, with someone ready to pull the plug immediately if anything goes wrong. Full operation should not begin without thorough testing beforehand.
Pump Repair & More
FloRight Pump & Controls are Arizona’s pump repair, installation, and maintenance specialists. If you need a pump installed, we pride ourselves on doing it right the first time – and we’re always available if you need repair services, no matter the type of pump involved. Contact us for assistance!
