Need help?Do you have a question about the Half Off Ponds VARIABLE FLOW Series and is the answer not in the manual?
Never operate the submersible water pump out of water. Read this manual for future reference.
Variable Flow Series Submersible Water Pump.
Congratulations on your purchase of a Half Off Ponds' Variable Flow Series Water Pump.
Read and understand this manual before startup and service. Key safety cautions are highlighted.
Ensure proper grounding and use GFCI outlets. Do not modify the plug or cord.
Select correct tubing size for maximum flow. Freeze Flex tubing is recommended for ponds and waterfalls.
Learn about Function Button Lock, Screen Saver mode, and Data Memory function.
Interpret common error codes (Er01-Er05) and their solutions for controller or pump issues.
Details on 24-month warranty, liability limits, and procedure for obtaining service under warranty.
No warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose extend beyond specified terms.
This document describes the Variable Flow Series Submersible Water Pump, an essential component for various water features, particularly ponds and waterfalls. The pump is designed for submerged operation in fresh-water only, ensuring proper function and cooling. It is crucial to never operate the pump out of water, as this can lead to damage and void the warranty.
The Variable Flow Series Submersible Water Pump is engineered to provide efficient water circulation and flow for aquatic environments. Its primary function is to move water, making it suitable for creating waterfalls, operating filtration systems, or simply maintaining water movement in a pond. The "Variable Flow" aspect indicates that the pump's output can be adjusted, allowing users to customize the water flow rate to suit their specific needs, whether for a gentle stream or a powerful cascade. This adjustability is typically managed via a controller, which also displays operational information such as wattage. The pump is designed with a built-in thermal overload trip to prevent overheating, automatically shutting down if it gets too hot. It is important to allow the pump to cool down before restarting it after a thermal trip.
For optimal safety and performance, the pump should always be fully submerged in fresh water during operation. It is recommended to install Variable Flow pumps inside a skimmer box or a similar filtration unit. This placement helps protect the pump from loose debris, mud, or rocks that could clog the filter or cause damage. Direct placement into a pond is generally discouraged to prevent such issues and protect any aquatic life.
The pump's electrical connection must be secured in a waterproof location, ideally at least 6 feet (2 meters) away from the water feature. A "Drip Loop" should be formed with the electrical cord below the outlet to prevent water from running down the cord into the electrical outlet, mitigating electrical shock hazards. The pump must be connected to a properly grounded GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) electrical outlet. Modifying the provided plug or hard-wiring the product is strictly prohibited and can result in serious injury or death, as well as voiding the warranty. The pump should never be operated on an extension cord, as this can cause a drop in voltage and void the warranty.
A minimum water level of approximately 6 inches is required to prevent the pump from taking in air, which can lead to dry running and damage. The pump can be easily switched on or off by simply plugging or unplugging it from the GFCI outlet. Users should never place their hand or any object near the inlet opening while the pump is operating. If the inlet becomes clogged, the power supply must be turned off, and the motor allowed to stop completely before attempting to clear the obstruction. Children should never be left unattended around the pump while it is in operation. The pump is not intended for use in swimming pools or marina areas.
The controller, often referred to as a "SINE Vario Driver," provides an interface for adjusting the flow. It typically features an LED digital display showing wattage and buttons for flow adjustment and power on/off. A function button lock feature allows users to lock the controller settings by pressing specific buttons for a few seconds, preventing accidental changes. Similarly, the controller can be unlocked using the same method. A screen saver mode activates after a period of inactivity (e.g., 17 seconds) when no buttons are pressed, conserving energy and waking up with any button press. The controller also includes a data memory function, which retains the last settings even after the pump powers down, ensuring consistent operation upon restart.
Error codes are displayed on the controller to indicate specific issues:
Regular routine inspections and maintenance are crucial for the longevity and proper operation of the Variable Flow Series Submersible Water Pump. If the pump is housed in a skimmer, the screens and filters within the skimmer must be kept clean and free of debris to allow unrestricted water flow into the pump chamber. If the pump operates directly in the water feature, its intake screen must be kept clean. The frequency of cleaning depends on the specific water feature and the amount of debris present.
It is recommended to remove the pump from the water feature and soak it in a solution of CLR (Calcium Lime Rust) and water for up to 36 hours at least once a year, particularly before winterization and storage. After soaking, the pump should be thoroughly rinsed before re-installing it in the water feature. This helps prevent mineral buildup and ensures optimal performance.
Failure to observe maintenance precautions, such as operating the pump at low water levels or with a clogged inlet, can lead to damage, including noise, heavy vibration, and pump failure. Such damage due to restricted water flow (running "dry") is typically not covered under the terms of the warranty. Repeating cycles of stopping and restarting due to these issues will also damage the pump.
Before any assembly or operation, it is important to ensure all parts are present and undamaged. If any part is missing or damaged, the product should not be assembled, installed, or operated. For plumbing, using the largest recommended tubing size for the pump is advised to maximize water flow. Flexible tubing, such as "Freeze Flex," is recommended for its high strength, resistance to kinking and collapsing, and ability to withstand freezing temperatures without compromising structural integrity.
General| Variable Flow Control | Yes |
|---|---|
| Type | Submersible |
| Max Flow Rate | Varies by model |
| Voltage | 120V |
| Application | Ponds, Waterfalls, Fountains |
| Max Head | Varies by model |
| Power Consumption | Varies by model |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Outlet Size | Ranges from 0.75 in to 2 in depending on the model |
| Hose Diameter | Ranges from 0.75 in to 2 in depending on the model |
To Next Page
