Glentronics Basement Watchdog SI-33V

This document describes the Basement Watchdog Sump Pumps, Models SI-33V and SI-50V, providing an instruction manual and safety warnings for their installation, operation, and maintenance.

Function Description

The Basement Watchdog Sump Pumps are designed for ground water use only, specifically for evacuating water from sump pits in basements. They are rated for intermittent use and are not suitable for continuous duty applications like fountain ponds, or for handling raw sewage, salt water, or hazardous liquids. The pumps are equipped with a vertical float switch that activates the pump when water levels rise and deactivates it when the water is evacuated to a set "off-point."

Important Technical Specifications

The manual provides specifications for two models:

1/3 HP Model SI-33V:
- GPH @ 0': 4000
- GPH @ 10': 3200
- Pump diameter: 9.5"
- Volts: 115V, 60Hz
- Amps: 5.0
1/2 HP Model SI-50V:
- GPH @ 0': 4300
- GPH @ 10': 3600
- Pump diameter: 9.5"
- Volts: 115V, 60Hz
- Amps: 6.0

Both models come with a vertical float switch. Additional items that may be needed for installation include a 1-1/2" PVC pipe adapter, 1-1/2" rigid PVC pipe, a check valve or rubber union, PVC pipe cleaner and cement, and wire ties or hose clamps.

Usage Features

Installation:

Sump Pit: The pump requires a sump pit that conforms to local codes and is large enough to accommodate the pump and float switch. Larger pits are preferred for longer discharge cycles. The pit must be clean of debris, and the pump should be placed on bricks or blocks for a solid, level base, not directly on clay, earthen, or sand.
Plumbing: Rigid PVC pipe is recommended for discharge plumbing, which must comply with local, regional, and state codes. An in-line check valve is mandatory, especially when sharing a discharge line with another pump, to prevent back-flow.
Air Bleed Hole: Crucially, if a check valve is used, a 1/8" (3.2mm) air bleed hole must be drilled in the PVC pipe above the pump, angled 45° toward the bottom of the sump to avoid splashing. This hole must be above the water line and below the check valve to prevent air lock.
Electrical Connection: The pump must be plugged directly into a properly grounded, 3-prong, 115V, 60Hz receptacle. Extension cords are prohibited. The electrical outlet should be at least 4 feet above floor level. The supply circuit needs a dedicated fuse or circuit breaker rated for the pump's power requirements. The power cord must be protected from sharp objects, hot surfaces, oil, and chemicals, and kinking should be avoided.
Float Switch Positioning: The vertical float switch must move freely without contact with other pumps, wires, pipes, or the sump pit floor or wall. Debris should be avoided near the float.
Discharge Line Slope: If the discharge line is exposed to freezing temperatures, it must be sloped downward to allow remaining water to drain, preventing freezing and pump damage.
Initial Check: After installation, the pump's operation must be checked by filling the sump with water and observing several full cycles. Abnormal sounds or lack of output indicate a problem.

Operation:

The vertical float switch activates the pump when the water level lifts the float to the top of the lift rod. As water is evacuated, the float drops to the lower float stop, turning off the pump.
Pumping Range Adjustment: The pumping range can be adjusted by moving the lower float stop on the lift rod. The lower float stop should not be moved below the top barb, as this will prevent the pump from shutting off. The default position of the lower float stop is set for maximum pumping range to extend pump life. After any adjustments, re-check pump operation.

Safety Warnings:

Electric Shock Risk: Always disconnect power before servicing. Never handle the pump with wet hands or while standing on a wet surface. Ensure a properly grounded 3-prong receptacle; do not bypass grounding wires or remove the ground prong.
Injury/Property Damage Risk: Do not use the power cord or strain relief to carry the pump; use the handle. Do not pull on the float switch cord. Do not operate a damaged pump. Do not use for raw sewage, salt water, or hazardous liquids. Do not use for continuous duty. Do not disassemble the pump or float switch; contact Glentronics technical support for service.
Backup System: The manual strongly recommends installing a Basement Watchdog battery backup sump pump system for protection during power outages, as primary AC pumps will not operate without power.

Maintenance Features

Maintenance should be performed 1-2 times per year.

Debris Removal: Remove all debris from the bottom of the pit, the pump strainer, floating water, and around the float switch and lift rod.
Air Bleed Hole: Remove any debris around the air bleed hole.
Operational Check: Fill the pit with water to ensure the pump turns on at the intended level and evacuates water at a good pace. Verify that a stream of water escapes from the air bleed hole; if not, clear any deposits.

Troubleshooting Guide: The manual includes a comprehensive troubleshooting guide for common issues:

Pump not starting/running: Solutions include checking power plug, float switch position, circuit breaker/fuse, power source, power cable, locked impeller, and defective float switch/pump.
Thermal protector tripping/not functioning: Check for locked impeller, incorrect power supply, heavy sand content, or continuous running without water.
Pump starts/stops too frequently: Adjust float stop position, check for back-flow, clogged/frozen discharge, or blocked intake.
Pump not shutting off: Check for obstructed float switch, missing air bleed hole, stuck/upside-down check valve, or secondary pump check valve issues.
Insufficient/no water volume: Solutions include clearing impeller obstruction, clearing clogged/frozen discharge, repairing broken/leaking pipe, checking power voltage, and addressing air bleed hole or check valve issues.
Abnormal sound/vibration: Check for blocked intake or broken impeller.

For problems not resolved by the troubleshooting guide, contact Glentronics customer service.

Warranty Information

Glentronics, Inc. offers a limited warranty covering defective materials and workmanship for its pumps, switches, and control units for 3 years from the date of purchase when used intermittently as a sump pump. The defective product must be returned to the factory, postage prepaid, with the original bill of sale or receipt. Glentronics, Inc. will repair or replace the product at its option.

What is NOT Covered:

Cost or value of damaged property due to water overflow, seepage, or flooding.
Reinstallation costs or plumber/contractor fees.
Incorrectly installed products (deviating from manual instructions).
Problems from handling liquids hotter than 104°F, inflammable liquids, solvents, strong chemicals, or abrasive solutions.
User abuse, misuse, neglect, improper maintenance, commercial/industrial use.
Improper connection/installation, lightning strikes, excessive AC line voltage surges, water damage to the controller, other acts of nature, or failure to operate according to instructions.

To obtain warranty service, the unit must be shipped, freight prepaid, to Glentronics, Inc. within 30 days of defective performance, in its original carton or similar packaging. The product must not have been altered, repaired, or serviced by anyone other than Glentronics, Inc. or its agent. The serial number must be intact. The dealer's dated bill of sale or installer's invoice is required as proof of purchase and warranty eligibility.