This document provides comprehensive installation and operating instructions for TotalFlo™ Jet Pumps and Multistage Pumps, designed for clean water pressure systems. It emphasizes the importance of proper installation and maintenance to ensure reliable operation and to validate the product warranty.
Function Description
TotalFlo™ Jet Pumps and Multistage Pumps are designed to provide a consistent water pressure system for various applications. These pumps are specifically engineered to handle clean, fresh water free of solids. The system includes a pump body, motor, and a pressure controller, which automatically manages pump operation based on water demand. The pressure controller is pre-set to restart at 150kPa and stops the pump at approximately 0.5lpm. If the pressure reaches above 230kPa at low flow stop, the pump will go into standby mode. If the pressure does not rise at low flow, the controller will detect a fault, indicating a potential issue with the system.
The pump's operation is straightforward: once primed and connected to a water source and power supply, it will automatically start when water is demanded (e.g., by opening a tap) and stop when the demand ceases. The automatic pressure controller ensures efficient operation by preventing dry running and maintaining optimal pressure.
Usage Features
- Clean Water Application: These pumps are designed exclusively for pumping clean fresh water. Using them for flammable fluids, corrosive materials, abrasive liquids, or water containing solids is strictly prohibited and will void the warranty.
- Automatic Operation: The integrated pressure controller allows for fully automatic operation. The pump starts when pressure drops (indicating water demand) and stops when pressure is restored (indicating no demand), providing a convenient "set and forget" experience.
- Surge Protection: The pump's controller is equipped with a metal oxide varistor (MOV) to protect its circuit from electrical power surges or spikes. While this MOV offers protection, it is a "sacrificial" device that degrades over time with each surge. For installations prone to significant electrical surges or lightning, the use of additional surge protection devices on all electrical equipment is strongly recommended.
- Installation Flexibility: The pumps can be installed with either a suction lift or flooded suction setup. For suction lift installations, a good quality foot valve is essential to prevent loss of prime. For flooded suction, a gate valve is required to isolate the water supply for pump removal and servicing.
- Pipe Connection Guidelines: For optimal performance, PVC or polythene pipes of the same diameter as the pump's inlet and outlet openings are recommended. Larger diameter pipes can be used for longer distances to minimize flow resistance. Unions should be used for pipe connections to facilitate easy removal and servicing. Thread tape is crucial for ensuring airtight seals, and heavy inlet and outlet pipes must be supported to prevent strain on pump threads.
- Air Pocket Prevention: Suction pipes should be laid at a constant gradient to avoid air pockets, which can significantly reduce pump efficiency.
- Strainer Recommendation: If the water supply is likely to contain solid particles (e.g., plant matter), a suction strainer should be installed before the pump to prevent blockages.
- Mains Water Connection Considerations: When connecting the pump directly to mains water, it is imperative to adhere to local Water Supply Authority regulations. In most cases, an isolating tank between the mains supply and the pump is required. If a direct connection is made, the casing pressure (maximum outlet pressure) must not exceed 600kPa (6bar/87psi) to prevent damage to the pump.
- Environmental Protection: The pump should be housed in a waterproof, frost-free enclosure with adequate ventilation to protect it from weather elements and ensure longevity. The pump must be horizontally mounted on a firm base to allow for drainage and prevent damage from potential leaks.
- Insect Infestation Warning: The manual highlights that insects, particularly ants, can be attracted to electrical devices. If the pump enclosure is susceptible to insect infestation, a suitable pest control plan should be implemented.
Maintenance Features
- Troubleshooting Guide: The manual includes a detailed troubleshooting checklist to help users diagnose common issues such as the motor not starting, the pump running but not pumping, or the pump stopping and restarting quickly. This guide covers problems related to power connection, prime loss, air leaks, blockages, and incorrect installation.
- Over-Temperature Cut-Out: For protection, the pump motor is fitted with an automatic "over temperature" cut-out. Frequent tripping of this device indicates underlying problems like low voltage or excessive temperature within the pump enclosure, prompting investigation.
- Safety Precautions for Servicing: The instructions emphasize critical safety measures during servicing. Users are warned to always switch off power and unplug the lead before attending to the pump. When disassembling, it's important to relieve pressure by opening a tap on the discharge side and allow any hot water in the pump to cool to prevent injury from pressurized hot water.
- Lubrication Guidelines: During servicing, only approved, non-petrochemical-based O-ring and gasket lubrication should be used. Users are advised to consult their TotalFlo Dealer if unsure about appropriate lubricants.
- Professional Electrical Servicing: Any electrical connections or repairs should only be performed by qualified persons to ensure safety and proper function.
- Warranty Information: The product comes with a 2-year warranty covering defects in material and workmanship under normal use. The warranty explicitly states that no spare parts or infield/workshop service are available; defective TotalFlo products will be replaced free of charge. The warranty is void if the pump has been misused, neglected, improperly installed, modified, or exposed to unsuitable conditions like incorrect voltage, lightning, or abrasive liquids. Users are encouraged to consult the Installation & Operating Instructions, especially the troubleshooting sections, before contacting the place of purchase for warranty claims.