Frequently Asked Booster Pump & Mixing Valve Questions
Variable Speed Systems For Commercial Properties and Homes
For homes or small businesses with low pressure (city or well water), our simplex pumps can be the best solution. These systems are equipped with a centrifugal pump regulated by a variable frequency drive that controls pump operation to maintain constant pressure regardless of varying demand or fluctuation in incoming pressure. With low city or well water pressure or smaller commercial facilities, our line of residential water booster or simplex pumps can be a good fit.
- Variable Frequency Drive controlled pump Energy efficient operation
- Commercial Grade Equipment Adjustable Set Pressure
- Residential & Commercial application
- Quiet, Compact & Powerful
- Prewired & Factory Tested
- Plug-and-Play Installation
FAQ's
WHAT INFORMATION IS NEEDED TO SIZE A BOOSTER SYSTEM?
As much as possible about building and hydraulics: • Type of building: Multi-family, office, dorm, etc. • Number of units, employees, etc. • Size and material of incoming pipe • Incoming Pressure • Height of building
WHAT IF I’M SIMPLY REPLACING AN EXISTING SYSTEM?
We’ve found most existing systems are super-sized, so installing the same size booster is probably a mistake. All the info above will be appreciated to properly size the new system?
WHAT’S CAUSING A LOSS OF THE SUCTION PRESSURE?
Typically, anything in the path can cause issues, such as a clogged strainer, undersized filter or water softener, clogged Pressure Reducing Valve, gate valve that’s not fully open, galvanized pipe, etc.
DO YOU SELL RESIDENTIAL BOOSTERS?
Yes, the simplex pumps are industrial grade systems, and can be used for industrial piping, or a home.
HOW LOUD ARE THE PUMPS?
DO I NEED TO PROGRAM THE SYSTEM?
No, the VFD is programmed here, so the systems are plug-and-play. In some circumstances, adjustments will need to be made.
DO YOU HAVE A WARRANTY?
Yes, all of our boosters are warrantied for three years.
WHAT IF I HAVE PEX IN MY BUILDING?
PEX is complicated, so please give us a call.
ARE YOUR SYSTEMS LEAD FREE / MASSACHUSETTS APPROVED / UL APPROVED, ETC?
Systems are all lead free. Components are MA approved, and electrical is UL approved.
WHAT IS YOUR LEAD TIME FOR SUBMITTALS? SYSTEMS?
Submittal and pricing proposals are typically done in two business days. 80% of systems ship in two weeks (exception: vertical pumps).
HOW ARE SYSTEMS SHIPPED? 24 HOUR NOTIFICATION?
Simplex are shipped UPS, and multiplex on LTL common carrier. 24 hour notification will usually add 1-2 days and additional cost.
DO YOU TAKE AMEX OR CHECKS / PAYMENT TERMS?
Yes, we gladly accept both. Payments are required prior to system build.
HOW IS START-UP HANDLED?
Because these systems are programmed and tested here, start-up can be done by the installing contractor.
DO YOU SERVICE THE PUMPS?
No, we only build them, but we are here to provide assistance when needed. A local contractor can service the system.
MY PIPE IS 2” BUT THE PUMP MANIFOLD IS 3”. CAN WE BUSH UP OR DOWN?
Yes, but verify with us first. If we have the proper pipe size up front, we’ll be happy to build the system with the correct size.
DOES THE SYSTEM NEED TO BE PROTECTED FROM THE ELEMENTS?
Yes, our standard systems use NEMA1 VFD’S, which need to be protected like a desktop computer. For outside / wet environments, NEMA4 VFD’s are available.
DO I NEED TO ADD A CHECK VALVE? BALL VALVES?
All our multi-plex systems (duplex / triplex) are supplied with the necessary check valves and ball valves. Simplex systems have check valves, but are NOT supplied with ball valves.
CAN WE SWITCH THE MANIFOLD DIRECTION?
Yes. But it’s easier if we build the system with the manifolds properly oriented left or right.
IS THE EXPANSION TANK INCLUDED?
Yes, it’ll be listed on page 2 of the submittal package.
WHAT WILL HAPPEN IF I LOOSE WATER?
The VFD’s will shut the pumps down if the suction pressure drops too low.
CAN YOU PROVIDE AN ASME TANK AT ADDED COST?
Absolutely, please call to discuss, as we want to provide our clients with the best value.
IS THE PRESSURE FIELD ADJUSTABLE?
Yes. Directions are in IOM, or call the office for help.
DO I NEED TO PERFORM ANY MAINTENANCE?
Generally, keeping the system CLEAN is the best maintenance, and checking that the fans are working. Sometimes the pump shaft may get “squeaky”, which is easily solved with a good lithium or Teflon grease (not WD40!)
WHAT HAPPENS IF THE PUMP FAULTS OR HAS AN ALARM?
A fault will stop the pump; an alarm will NOT stop the pump. Take a picture of the display window before turning off the power. Sometimes simply turning off/on the power will clear the problem. If not, please call.
WHat causes my pressure to go much higher then the desired set point?
This can be caused by thermal expansion (typically at night), or if the discharge pressure is too close to the suction pressure. For example, if the suction pressure is 60psi, and the setpoint is 65psi, the pump will not have time to slow down, and the setpoint will be over-shot.
WILL YOUR SYSTEM WORK IF IT’S BEING FED BY A STORAGE TANK?
Yes, but it needs to be designed for this application.
IS PEX / GALVANIZED PIPING OK TO FEED THE PUMP SYSTEM?
Not generally, as the inside diameter will be greatly reduced. Exception: Uponor/Wirsbo PEX. Please call to discuss.
WILL YOUR SYSTEM WORK IN CONJUNCTION WITH A WELL PUMP?
Yes, it will simply boost the water coming from the tank tee.
DOES YOUR PUMP SUCK WATER UP FROM A WELL?
No, we require a “flooded suction” to our pumps.