Water Boils After Pump Loses Prime Hazard Alert

It is very important to ensure pumps remain primed. If a pump does not keep its prime, water can stagnate inside. Friction will cause the water temperature in the pump cavity to increase and cause water pressure to build. Below are some of the causes and solutions to pumps losing their prime:

• Engine speed too low - adjust engine speed
• Suction strainer partially plugged - clean suction strainer
• Impeller worn - adjust clearance by adding shims or replace impeller
• Volute insert worn or damaged - adjust clearance or replace volute insert

Overheated pumps can cause severe damage to equipment, as well as serious injury and burns.

Recommended Preventive Action

• Familiarity and proper training are required to safely operate the machine.
• Operate the pump within its working capacities and pump only liquids for which the pump is designed to handle.
• Do not block or restrict flow from the inlet line or discharge line. Operating a pump with a closed suction or discharge valve is a principal cause of overheating.
• Remove kinks from the discharge line before starting the pump.
• Allow the pump to cool to the touch before loosening the plug and before loosening or removing the inlet or discharge hose fittings.

• If the pump casing overheats:

  • Stop the pump immediately.
  • Allow the equipment to cool completely.
  • Vent the pump slowly and cautiously.
  • Refer to the manufacturer’s instruction manual before restarting the unit.
  • Remove hoses carefully. Heated water could be in the hose.

March 2012