8 Claytech C3X / C5X User Manual
11. Installation
The suction line is one of the most important aspects of any pump installation.
Up to 90% of pump problems encountered are related to the suction line.
SUCTION LINE (Inlet pipe)
General rules
• Locate the pump as close to the water source as possible.
• Keep the suction line as short and straight as practical with a minimum of
fittings, joins or elbows to minimise the risk of air leaks and to keep water
friction low. Ensure the suction pipe is suitable and won’t deform.
• Ensure there is at least 150mm of straight pipe entering the pump. Never fit an
elbow directly to the pump inlet
• It is CRITICAL that the inlet piping is at least the same size as the inlet port
(25mm)
Tank fed (water level higher than the pump)
• Fit an isolating valve (minimum 1” valve) to the outlet of the water tank. A ball
valve is recommended for this application due to their superior reliability and
fast action.
• 25mm inside diameter flexible suction hose a minimum of 300m long is
recommended when connecting to a water tank. The flexible hose compensates
for any movement in the installation that may occur.
Suction lift (water level lower than the pump)
• If the pump is located above the level of the water, a one-way valve (foot-valve)
must be installed on the end of the suction line.
• To prevent the formation of air pockets, the suction hose must slope slightly
upwards towards the pump.
DISCHARGE LINE (Outlet pipe)
• The minimum recommended discharge line is 20mm inside diameter pipe.
• If an elbow has to be fitted to the top of the controller, use a 25mm inside
diameter elbow first then use a reducer to reduce friction losses.
• Small diameter pipes result in friction losses and can result is disappointing
performance
• W
hen fitting a discharge line to a garden tap, ensure that the tap is attached
to either a wall or post as a permanent fixture and there is at least one metre
of line between the pump and the tap. This will allow the controller to
operate most efficiently.
•
Avoid installing taps or connections directly above pump as this can allow
water to be discharged directly onto the pump’s motor in the event of a leak.
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