Pentair STA-RITE MAX-E-PRO P6RA Series

The Pentair Sta-Rite Max-E-Pro High Efficiency Pool and Spa Pump is designed for use in swimming pools and spas, serving as a centrifugal pump for water circulation. This guide provides comprehensive instructions for its installation, operation, and maintenance, emphasizing safety throughout.

Function Description

The Max-E-Pro pump is a high-efficiency unit responsible for circulating water in pool and spa systems. It draws water from the pool or spa, passes it through a strainer basket to remove debris, and then pushes it through the filtration system before returning it to the body of water. The pump is capable of high flow rates, making it suitable for various pool and spa applications. It is available in several series, including P6RA, P6EA, and P6E, with different horsepower and voltage configurations to suit diverse system requirements. The pump's design incorporates features for efficient water movement and debris capture, ensuring clean and well-circulated pool or spa water.

Usage Features

The pump is designed for ease of use and reliable operation, but proper installation and adherence to safety guidelines are crucial.

Priming: Before initial operation or after servicing, the pump must be properly primed. In flooded suction systems (where the water source is higher than the pump), the pump will self-prime when suction and discharge valves are opened. For non-flooded systems, the trap cover must be removed, and the trap and pump filled with water. It's important to ensure all air is out of the system before operating to prevent component separation.
Suction Requirements: To minimize the risk of suction entrapment, the pump suction system must include at least two hydraulically balanced main drains with certified, screw-fastened anti-entrapment covers, spaced at least three feet apart. The system must be designed so that the pump cannot draw water from only one main drain. All suction plumbing must comply with national and local codes, standards, and guidelines.
Electrical Connection: The pump requires a specific voltage and phase, which must exactly match the motor nameplate voltage to prevent damage and ensure safe operation. It's critical to ground the motor permanently and bond it to the pool structure using a solid copper conductor. A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) must be installed in the circuit to protect against electrical shock. For dual-voltage motors, a plug allows switching between 230 volts (factory setting) and 115 volts, which must be correctly set according to the supply voltage. Two-speed motors require specific wiring as detailed in the manual, and the minimum switch and timer amp rating must match the branch fuse rating.
Emergency Shutoff: An emergency shut-off switch must be installed near the pool, clearly marked, and easily accessible to bathers and operating personnel. Users must be trained on its proper use in case of entrapment or electrical malfunction.
Pressure Testing: Before pressure testing, all clamps, bolts, lids, and system accessories must be checked and secured. All air must be released from the system, and water pressure for the test must be less than 25 PSI (7.5 kg/cm²) and water temperature less than 100°F (38°C). The test duration should not exceed 24 hours.
Winterizing: When expecting freezing temperatures or storing the pump for an extended period, all water must be drained from the pump and piping. Non-toxic propylene glycol antifreeze can be used in areas that retain water. The pump motor should be kept dry and covered, but not wrapped in plastic, to avoid condensation/corrosion.
Startup for Winterized Equipment: Before starting a winterized pump, temporary weather protection should be removed, electrical wiring inspected, watertight connections tightened, and all valves in suction and return piping opened. Any winterizing plugs and antifreeze must be removed from the system before priming the pump.

Maintenance Features

Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the pump's longevity and efficient performance.

Strainer Basket Cleaning: The primary routine maintenance involves inspecting and cleaning the trap basket. Debris accumulation in the basket can restrict water flow, reducing pump efficiency. To clean, the pump must be stopped, suction and discharge valves closed, and all system pressure released. The trap cover handle ring is then removed (counterclockwise), and the strainer basket is cleaned and reinstalled with the large opening at the pipe connection port.
O-Ring Inspection: The trap cover O-Ring should be inspected and cleaned regularly. The original O-Ring contains a permanent internal lubricant, but if replaced with a non-internally lubricated O-Ring, a silicone-based lubricant may be needed. The trap cover should be tightened by hand only, without wrenches.
Seal Replacement: If the shaft seal is worn or damaged, it must be replaced by qualified personnel. The process involves disconnecting power, draining the pump, removing the trap cover and clamp, and then disassembling the motor and seal plate assembly. The old ceramic seat and rotating seal member are removed, and new ones are installed carefully, ensuring no scratches or damage to the polished surfaces, which could cause leaks. The impeller is then screwed back onto the shaft, automatically locating the seal.
Impeller and Diffuser Inspection: The impeller and diffuser should be checked for clogging or wear. If clogged, they need to be cleaned. If worn, replacement parts should be ordered.
Motor Care: The motor runs at high temperatures, so it's crucial to prevent leaves, debris, or foreign matter from collecting around it to reduce the risk of fire. Before handling the motor, allow it to cool for at least 20 minutes to avoid burns. Adequate ventilation is necessary, especially if the pump is installed in an enclosure, to maintain ambient temperature below the motor's maximum rated temperature.
Troubleshooting: The manual includes a troubleshooting guide to address common issues such as failure to pump, reduced capacity, discharge pressure problems, suction leaks, lost prime, clogged components, and electrical issues. It emphasizes checking voltage, ventilation, and connections, and consulting a licensed electrician for complex electrical problems.
General Care: The pump should be installed on a solid, level, rigid, non-combustible, and vibration-free mount, ideally bolted to a concrete platform for quietest performance. It should be protected from excess moisture and located away from corrosive or flammable chemicals. Adequate access for servicing the pump and piping should be maintained. The pump should never be run dry, as this can damage seals and cause leakage.

Pentair STA-RITE MAX-E-PRO P6RA Series Specifications

General

Model	P6RA Series
Voltage	115/230 V
Wet End Material	Thermoplastic
Motor Type	TEFC (Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled)
Type	Pool Pump
Service Factor	1.25
Port Size	2 in
Max Head	90 ft
Connection Size	2"