Do you have a question about the Little Giant 1-EA Series and is the answer not in the manual?
Key safety precautions for pump operation, installation, and electrical hazards.
Proper voltage connection, grounding, and GFCI installation for electrical safety.
Guidelines for submerging or inline positioning and securely supporting the pump.
Methods to restrict flow safely and warnings against operating the pump dry.
Instructions for storing the pump during idle periods and preventing freeze damage.
Guidance on lubrication, avoiding housing disassembly, and cleaning pump parts.
Details the limited warranty, conditions that void it, and disclaimer of liability.
The Little Giant 1-EA Series pump is a small, submersible, encapsulated pump designed for various applications, including fountain equipment, pools, and other uses where fluid circulation is required. The pump is constructed with a durable die-cast aluminum and polyester outer case, and its internal components are filled with a special heat transfer epoxy, ensuring robust performance and longevity. Some models within the 1-EA Series are also suitable for in-line operation.
The primary function of the Little Giant 1-EA Series pump is to circulate liquids. It is designed to operate submerged in fluid, with specific models like the 1-EA-42 also capable of inline operation. The pump's motor is permanently lubricated, eliminating the need for external oiling. Its design emphasizes safety and efficiency, with features such as a grounding conductor and/or grounding type attachment plug to reduce the risk of electrical shock. The pump is intended for use with liquids compatible with its component materials, typically fresh water, light oils, or other mild liquids at approximately room temperature. It is crucial not to use the pump with flammable or explosive fluids, or in explosive atmospheres, as this can lead to severe hazards.
The 1-EA Series pumps are generally designed for submerged operation. For models like the 1-EA style, the pump should be placed with the screen as a base or with the cord facing upwards, ensuring the volute is always flooded or underwater. If the operating surface is sandy or muddy, it is recommended to place a separate hard surface, such as a brick, under the pump to prevent screen clogging.
For 1-EA-42 style pumps, both submerged and inline operation are possible. These pumps can be positioned at any attitude, though placing the volute down or to the side is often preferred. Adequate support for the pump's weight is essential; users should not support the pump by its discharge connection alone. Instead, the two mounting holes in the back of the pump, designed for #8 self-tapping screws with a depth of 0.37 inches, should be utilized for support. It is critical not to exceed this hole depth.
Restricting the intake side of these pumps is strongly discouraged, as it can damage the seal and starve the pump. If reduced flow rates are desired, a valve should be placed on the discharge side of the pump. Alternatively, if flexible vinyl tubing is used, a clamp can be employed to restrict the flow.
A critical operational guideline is to never allow the unit to operate dry. The pump relies on the circulating fluid for cooling, and running it without fluid can lead to damage to the seal and motor failure.
Electrical connections require careful attention. Users must verify the proper voltage required by checking the pump label and ensure it matches the power source. If the pump comes with a 3-prong electrical plug, the third prong is for grounding and must not be removed, as this prevents possible electrical shock hazards. Cutting the plug or shortening the cord will void the warranty. For models with stripped lead wires (e.g., 230V models), the green/yellow wire is the ground, and the other two are live, requiring correct connection to the power source. The National Electric Code mandates the installation of a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) in the branch circuit supplying fountain equipment rated above 15 volts. Little Giant Pump Company recommends using a GFCI with each pump.
In any installation where property damage or personal injury could result from an inoperative or leaking pump due to power outages, discharge line blockage, or other reasons, a backup system(s) and/or alarm should be used. Proper support for the pump and piping during assembly and installation is also vital to prevent piping breakage, pump failure, or motor bearing failures.
The Little Giant 1-EA Series pump is designed for relatively low maintenance. As previously mentioned, the unit is permanently lubricated, so no oiling is required. Users should never attempt to open the sealed portion of the unit or remove housing screws, as this can damage the pump and void the warranty.
Periodic cleaning of the pump parts is crucial for prolonging the life and efficiency of the pump. The cleaning process involves several steps:
If the unit is to be idle for an extended period, follow the cleaning instructions. It is also important to prevent the unit from freezing in winter, as freezing can cause cracking or distortion that may destroy the unit.
The instruction sheet provides a detailed diagram for the assembly and disassembly of the pumping head, aiding in maintenance tasks. When ordering replacement parts, it is essential to use the specific Catalog Number of the pump to ensure compatibility. If the pump's catalog number is not listed in the replacement parts section, caution should be exercised when ordering parts.
The Little Giant pumps undergo careful inspection, testing, and packaging to ensure safe operation. Upon receiving the pump, users should inspect it for any broken or damaged parts that may have occurred during shipment. Any damage should be noted, and the firm from which the pump was purchased should be notified for assistance with replacement or repair.
Adherence to all safety information and instructions is paramount to prevent personal injury and/or property damage. The warranty will be voided if conditions such as opening the sealed motor housing, connecting to incorrect voltage, cutting the cord to less than three feet, allowing the pump to operate dry, using it to circulate incompatible liquids, or product abuse by the customer are found.
| Model | 1-EA Series |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 115 V |
| Power Source | Electric |
| Type | Submersible |
| Cord Length | 10 feet |
| Phase | Single |












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