This document is an owner's manual for the Craftsman Professional 1/2 HP Shallow Well Water System, Model No. 390.252157. It provides comprehensive information on the installation, operation, maintenance, and repair of the pump and its associated components.
Function Description:
The Craftsman Professional 1/2 HP Shallow Well Water System is designed to pump water from shallow wells (20 feet deep or less) for household use. It includes a pump and a pre-charged tank, working together to provide a continuous supply of pressurized water. The impeller and jet mechanism within the pump create a vacuum to draw water, with part of the water recirculated through the nozzle and venturi to enhance the vacuum effect. The pre-charged tank serves as a reservoir, maintaining water under pressure and providing an air cushion to prevent pipe hammering and protect plumbing components. A pressure switch automatically controls the pump, starting it when pressure drops to 40 PSI and stopping it when pressure reaches 60 PSI. The system is equipped with a built-in check valve, and for dug or cased wells, a foot valve and strainer are recommended for easy priming and to prevent sediment from clogging.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Model Number: 390.252157
- Pump Type: 1/2 HP Shallow Well Jet Pump
- Suction Connection: 1-1/4"
- Discharge Connection: 1"
- Discharge Pressure (PSI): 40
- Pumping Depth in Feet (at 40 PSI):
- 5': 8.2 GPM
- 10': 7.3 GPM
- 15': 6.2 GPM
- 20': 5.0 GPM
- Motor Voltage: 115/230V, 60 Cycle
- Max. Load Amps (115/230V): 8.8/4.4
- Branch Fuse Rating Amps (115/230V): 15/15
- Tank Pre-charge Pressure: 40 PSI (adjustable to 2 PSI below pump cut-in setting if drawdown decreases)
- Maximum System Pressure: Limited to 100 PSI or below (relief valve capable of passing full pump volume at 100 PSI recommended)
- Maximum Total Lift: 20 feet at sea level (decreases by 1 foot per 1,000 feet of elevation above sea level)
Usage Features:
- Automatic Operation: The pressure switch ensures the pump starts and stops automatically based on system pressure.
- Priming: The manual provides detailed instructions for priming the pump, which is crucial for initial startup and after maintenance. A priming tee and plug are recommended for ease of use.
- Dual Voltage Motor: The motor is factory-wired for 230 volts but can be reconfigured for 115 volts, offering flexibility in electrical connections.
- Pre-Charged Tank: The tank comes pre-charged at 40 PSI, simplifying initial setup. Instructions are provided for checking and adjusting the air charge.
- Pipe Sizing Recommendations: The manual includes tables for recommended suction and discharge pipe sizes based on distance from the well and pump, optimizing performance and minimizing friction losses.
- Gaseous Well Handling: A helpful hint describes a method for handling well water containing gases by suspending a pipe sleeve in the well casing to allow gases to escape.
Maintenance Features:
- No Lubrication Required: The pump and motor are designed to be maintenance-free in terms of lubrication, with motor bearings lubricated for life and the mechanical shaft seal being water-lubricated and self-adjusting.
- Winter Draining: Detailed instructions are provided for draining the pump and piping system to prevent freezing damage during winter or when disconnected from service.
- Tank Air Charge Check: Annual checking of the tank's air charge is recommended to prevent waterlogging and maintain optimal drawdown. Instructions for checking and adjusting the air pressure using a tire gauge are included.
- Vinyl Bag Removal and Replacement: Comprehensive steps are outlined for removing and replacing the vinyl bag inside the pre-charged tank, including safety warnings about releasing air pressure.
- Air Valve Replacement: Instructions for replacing the air valve in the tank are provided.
- Testing for Bag Leakage: A procedure to test the vinyl bag for leaks is included.
- Pump Disassembly and Reassembly: Detailed instructions are given for disassembling and reassembling the pump for servicing, emphasizing safety precautions like disconnecting power and releasing pressure.
- Motor Removal and Shaft Seal Replacement: Steps for removing the motor for service and replacing the shaft seal are provided, noting the importance of replacing the seal whenever the motor and seal plate are separated.
- Impeller and Shallow Well Jet Cleaning: Instructions for cleaning the impeller and removing debris from the venturi or nozzle are included to maintain pump efficiency.
- Troubleshooting Guide: A comprehensive troubleshooting guide helps diagnose common issues such as the motor not running, motor overheating, no water delivery, pump not shutting off, frequent cycling, air spurts from faucets, and leaks. It lists possible causes and corresponding remedies.
The product comes with several warranties:
- Full One Year Warranty on Craftsman Well Pump: Covers repair or replacement for material or workmanship defects.
- Limited Warranty on Craftsman Professional Hydro-Glass Well Pump: After one year and through three years, provides a free replacement part for defective parts, with labor paid by the customer.
- Full Five Year Warranty on Craftsman Captive Air Tank: Covers repair or replacement for material or workmanship defects.
The warranty explicitly states it does not cover repairs due to abuse, negligence, or failure to install, adjust, or operate the pump according to the manual. It also limits liability for incidental or consequential losses. Warranty service is available through Sears Service Centers.