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Air locking on a sump pump happens when there is air between the pump and the checkvalve of the discharge line. The trapped air prevents the impeller from drawing in enough fluid to open the checkvalve to allow discharge. The weight of the fluid on the topside of the checkvalve keeps it closed. The problem is often noticed after the initial use, when the pit has had time to dry out during a dry spell. When it gets water in the pit again, the air lock condition shows up. The pump runs due to the float switch being raised, but can't eject the water because of the air lock condition.
Quick fix!!! Drill a 1/8" hole on an upward angle into the pipe below the checkvalve, or within the pit if the checkvalve is too high above the pit. The water will push the excess air from the discharge line allowing the pump to start the water removal. You will get a steady stream of water from the drilled hole as a result, but the air lock problem should be a thing of the past. This info should be in owners manual that came with the pump.
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What are possible causes of the pulley on the air pump locking up?
Air pump seized internally
Why does sump pump knock repeatedly after shutting off?
air in the line
How does evaporator sump pump work on a home air conditioner?
Centrifugal pump impeller discharges through outlet to manifold in top of unit where water is distibuted through media and what does not evaporate returns to sump. Water level in sump needs to be higher than pump base, as this is the inlet to pump.
What is Sump Pump Repair and why do I need it?
You would need a sump pump repair if the sump pump in your basement is not pumping out water. The purpose of a sump pump is to drain excess water that is part of your waterproofing system.
Does a sump pump need a hole in the pipe above the pump?
The hole in the pipe is to break an air lock that the pump may develop if the sump ever runs dry or the water level drops below the intake of the pump. Air inside the pump might not be purged out when the water level rises and the pump is called to turn on, causing the pump impeller to 'run dry' inside the pump. The hole allows the air to escape and the pump to prime itself and operate without an air lock condition.
What is another name for a flood pump?
sump pump
Sump Pump Installation?
form_title=Sump Pump Installation form_header=11503 What is it you need a sump pump for?*= () Water leaks through walls () Basement floods during storms () Basement floods due to rising water table () In case pipe bursts or basement drain is clogged () Other () Don't Know Does the new pump location have electricity close-by?*= () Yes () No () Don't Know
Sump Pump Repair?
form_title=Sump Pump Repair form_header=11513 How would you best describe the problem?*= () "Bad odors () Motor sounds, but not discharging water () No power to sump pump unit () Water in sump overflowing () Needs general servicing () Other"
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Yes it will power a small sump pump.
What is a sump pump discharge line?
The pipe coming off of sump pump that goes outside or if allowable, a drain line.
What does the air pump under the rear tail light on a 1992 jetta do?
That pump operates the pneumatic central door locking system.
Where is the oil pump on a 1963 impala?
The oil pump is the the sump.
