PENTAIR Simer 3985C Pre-Plumbed 1-2 HP Sump Pump Basin System Instruction Manual

June 9, 2024
Pentair

SAFETY INFORMATION

Carefully read and follow all safety instructions in this manual and on pump.
This is the safety alert symbol. When you see this symbol on your pump or in this manual, look for one of the following signal words and be alert to the potential for personal injury!
DANGER: warns about hazards that will cause serious personal injury, death or major property damage if ignored.
WARNING: warns about hazards that can cause serious personal injury, death or major property damage if ignored.
CAUTION: warns about hazards that will or can cause minor personal injury or property damage if ignored.
The word NOTICE indicates special instructions which are important but not related to hazards.

  1. Read these rules and instructions carefully. Failure to follow them could cause serious bodily injury and/or property damage.

  2. Check your local codes before installing. You must comply with their rules.
    WARNING: Hazardous voltage. Can shock, burn or kill. During operation the pump is in water. To avoid fatal shocks, proceed as follows if pump needs servicing:

  3. Disconnect power to outlet box before unplugging pump.

  4. Unplug the pump before handling or servicing.

  5. Take extreme care when changing fuses. Do not stand in water or put your finger in the fuse socket.

  6. Do not modify the cord and plug. When using the cord and plug, plug into a grounded outlet only. When wiring to a system control, connect the pump ground lead to the system ground.

  7. Do not run the pump dry. Dry running can overheat the pump (causing burns to anyone handling it), and will void the warranty.

  8. The pump normally runs hot. To avoid burns when servicing pump, allow it to cool for 20 minutes after shut-down before handling it.

  9. The pump is permanently lubricated. No oiling or greasing is required in normal operation.

  10. Do not install the basin and pump in any location classified as hazardous by the United States National Electrical Code (NEC), or by the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC), where applicable.

PUMP SPECIFICATIONS

Power Supply Required ………………………………. 115V, 60 Hz
Individual Branch Circuit Required ……………………..15 Amps
Maximum Liquid Temperature …………………….. 120°F (50°C)
Discharge Adapter ………………………………………. 1-1/2” NPT

DESCRIPTION

The Simer Sump Pump System, is ideal for basement and cellar installations. It includes a submersible sump pump and a corrosion-resistant sump basin and lid. The pump features a flush-mount system for maximum discharge of the basin. All components of the sump pump system are pre-assembled at the factory for easy installation.
This submersible pump is designed for sump drainage, dewatering and flood control. The pump has built-in thermal overload protection and an automatic reset. The mechanical seal and sleeve bearings on the motor shaft are permanently lubricated.
This system is designed for residential use only. The supplied hardware kit includes a rubber inlet hub and a cord grommet. No special tools or sealants are required.
NOTICE: This system is not designed for applications involving salt water or brine! Use with salt water or brine will void warranty.

PERFORMANCE

GPH (LPH) AT TOTAL FEET (METERS OF LIFT No flow el shown below
Model 5 (1.5 m)

(7.0 m)
3985C| 2,220 (8,404)| 1,800 (6,814)| 1260 (4,770)| 300 (1,136)

*For performance at maximum temperature see Catalog.

INSTALLATION

Piping
Piping must not be smaller than pump discharge.
Electrical
Hazardous voltage. Can shock, burn, or kill.
When installing, operating, or servicing this pump, follow the safety instructions listed below.
Do not lift pump by the power cord.

  1. DO NOT splice the electrical power cord.
  2. DO NOT allow the electrical cord plug to be submerged.
  3. DO NOT use extension cords. They are a fire hazard and can reduce voltage to prevent pumping and/or damage motor.
  4. DO NOT handle or service the pump while it is connected to the power supply.
  5. DO NOT remove the grounding prong from the plug or modify the plug. To protect against electrical shock, the power cord is a three-wire conductor and includes a 3-prong grounded plug. Plug the pump into a 3-wire, grounded, grounding-type receptacle. Connect the pump according to the NEC or CEC and local codes.

The pump is plugged into a vertical switch for automatic operation. The pump will run continuously when plugged directly into an electrical outlet.
Connect or wire pump to its own individual branch circuit with no other outlets or equipment in the circuit. Size fuses or circuit breakers according to the “Pump, Motor, Switch and Cord Specifications” chart.
WARNING: Risk of electrical shock and fire. Be sure that power supply information (Voltage/Hertz/Phase) in this manual matches incoming power supply exactly. Install pump according to all electrical codes that apply.
NOTICE: Proper ventilation is needed to prevent negative basin pressure and to provide air within the basin. The basin should be located at the lowest place in the basement or area to be drained. Floor drains from other areas in the basement may be tiled into the basin. Drain tile around a house foundation may also be tiled into the basin, effectively removing water and relieving pressure from this area. Basin covers are used to exclude refuse from the basin.
PUMP, MOTOR, SWITCH, & CORD SPECIFICATIONS

Motor HP| Motor Full Load Amps| Individual Branch Circuit
Required (Amps)| Cord Length in tt. (mm)| Switch Setting In Inches (mm)| Discharge Adapter Size
---|---|---|---|---|---
On| Ott
1/2| 10.| 15| 8 (203)| 8 (203)| 4 (102)| 1-1/2″

WARNING
Risk of electrical shock.
Can burn or kill.
Do not lift pump by power cord.
CORD LIFT WARNINGPENTAIR Simer 3985C Pre-Plumbed 1-2 HP Sump Pump Basin
System - fig 1

  1. Attempting to lift or support pump by power cord can damage cord and cord connections.
  2. Cord may pull apart, exposing bare wires with possibility of fire or electrical shock.
  3. Lifting or supporting pump by power cord will void warranty.
  4. Use handles on top of pump for all lifting/ lowering of pump. Disconnect power to pump before doing any work on pump or attempting to remove pump from sump.

Installation Instructions.

  1. Dig the hole for the basin and the sub-base. The hole must be deep enough so the top of the basin is flush with the finished floor.
    NOTICE: The sub-base should include 4” of sand or gravel. The maximum diameter of rock should be 1/2”; 3/4” maximum diameter pea gravel is recommended.

  2. Level the sub-base out until it is smooth. Sharp rock can damage the basin.

  3. Reach into the inlet hole to retrieve the hardware kit. Locate the cord grommet in the hardware kit.

  4. Reach into the inlet hole again to pull the power cords up through the cord grommet hole in the cover. Press the cords into the cord grommet and install the grommet in the cover.

  5. Locate the inlet hub in the hardware kit, and snap it into the inlet hole.

  6. Install the basin on top of the sub-base.

  7. Insert a 4” inlet pipe through the inlet hub. Insert it 2” into the basin. Dish soap can be used to lubricate the inlet hub. If necessary, file the sharp edges of the pipe to prevent damage to the hub.
    NOTICE: The inlet pipe should pitch down to the basin inlet at 1/4” per foot. This will cause the water to run into the basin.

  8. Backfill around the basin with crushed rock, with a maximum diameter of 1/2”, or use pea gravel.

  9. Install a 1-1/2” discharge pipe into the 1-1/2” discharge flange.

  10. Install a 2” vent pipe into the vent flange. The vent pipe must go through the roof of the building or it can be connected to an existing vent pipe. The sump basin must be vented.
    NOTICE: Proper ventilation is needed to prevent negative basin pressure and to provide air within the basin.

  11. Install a 1-1/2” check valve in the discharge pipe. Make certain the flow indicating arrow points away from the pump. This check valve will keep the water from running back into the basin when the pump is not running.
    Purchase check valve and inlet, vent and discharge pipes locally.
    PENTAIR Simer 3985C Pre-Plumbed 1-2 HP Sump Pump Basin System - fig
2 Figure 1 – Typical Installation
    NOTICE: To prevent pump contamination, clear basin of any debris during or after installation.

  12. Plug the pump into a properly grounded outlet.

  13. Check the operation by filling the basin with water and observing pump operation through one complete cycle. Make sure no parts of the assembly interfere with the float.

OPERATION

WARNING: Failure to make this operational check may lead to improper operation, premature failure, and flooding.
NOTICE: The shaft seal depends on water for lubrication and cooling. Do not operate the pump unless it is submerged in water as the seal may be damaged if allowed to run dry. Allowing the pump to run dry will void the warranty.
An automatic overload protector in the motor will protect the motor from burning out due to overheating/overloading. When the motor cools down, the overload protector will automatically reset and start the motor.
If the overload trips frequently, check for the cause. It could be a stuck impeller, wrong/low voltage, or an electrical failure in the motor. If an electrical failure in the motor is suspected, have it serviced by a competent repairman.
The pump is permanently lubricated. No oiling or greasing is required.
NOTICE: The pump will not remove all water. For extended operation, water depth must be at least 5” (13 cm) to prevent motor overheating.
Airlocks
When a pump airlocks, it runs but does not move any water. An airlock will cause the pump to overheat and fail. The discharge pipe is plumbed with a predrilled anti-airlock hole. Leakage from the anti-airlock hole is normal during pump operation.
Float Switch – Operational Check

  1. Fill the sump with the correct amount of water to check the operation and tightness of the connections. During the first automatic cycle, it may take 30 seconds or more before the pump is primed and pumping. The pump will start as indicated in the “Pump, Motor, Switch and Cord Specifications” table on Page 2.
  2. Check the turn-off position. The pump will stop approximately as indicated in the “Pump, Motor, Switch and Cord Specifications”.
  3. If the pump does not operate, check the electrical service.

MAINTENANCE

WARNING: Hazardous voltage. Can shock, burn, or kill. Before removing the pump from the basin for service, always disconnect electrical power to the pump and the control switch. Do not lift the pump by the power cord.
NOTICE: To prevent pump contamination, clear basin of any debris during or after installation.
NOTICE: The pump should only be serviced by trained personnel. There are no consumer serviceable parts inside the pump.
Disconnect the discharge and vent pipes from the unit, remove the four basin cover bolts, and then lift the pump out of the basin using the pump handles.
DO NOT attempt to open the pump further than removing the suction housing.
The pump motor housing contains a special lubricating oil which should be kept clean and free of water at all times.
The sump basin and cover, pump, and piping should be protected from freezing temperatures. If there is any danger of freezing temperatures, the unit should be drained.

TO CLEAN THE IMPELLER

Follow the steps shown below. To reassemble pump, reverse the sequence.
Risk of electrical shock. Can burn or cause death. Before removing the pump from the sump for service, always disconnect the electrical power source to the pump.
Do not raise, lower or carry the pump by the power cord. Use the handles provided on the pump.

  1. Unplug the Pump.

  2. Disconnect the discharge and vent pipes, and remove basin cover. Be sure you do not damage the seal ring.
    PENTAIR Simer 3985C Pre-Plumbed 1-2 HP Sump Pump Basin System - fig
4

  3. Lift the Pump out of the Sump Pit by the Pump Handles.
    PENTAIR Simer 3985C Pre-Plumbed 1-2 HP Sump Pump Basin System - fig
5

  4. Remove the Screws that hold the Suction Housing to the Pump Assembly and clean out the Impeller.
    PENTAIR Simer 3985C Pre-Plumbed 1-2 HP Sump Pump Basin System - fig
6 Figure 2 – Impeller Cleaning

PENTAIR Simer 3985C Pre-Plumbed 1-2 HP Sump Pump Basin System - fig
7

WARNING
Drowning risk to small children.
Do not leave small children unattended near basin if lid is off of basin.
REPAIR PARTS – PRE-PLUMBED SYSTEMS

Key No. Part Description Qty. 3985C
1 A Basin Cover Assembly (Includes Nos. 1-8) 1 PW73-65P
1 Basin Cover 1
2 Square Cut 0-Ring 2
3 Vent Flange. 2″ 1
4 Flat Washer 8
5 Basin Bolt 8
6 Discharge Flange. 1-1/2″ 1
7 Cord Grommet* 1
8 Seal Ring 1 PW73-71
9 Inlet Hub, Snap-In’ 1
10 Sump Basin 1
11 Sump Pump 1 2975-REP
12 Discharge Pipe 1 U37-690P
  • Included in hardware package.

TROUBLES-REMEDIES

WARNING: Sudden Starts. If the power is on to the pump when thermal overload resets, the pump may start without warning. If you are working on the pump, you may get an electrical shock or the impeller may catch fingers or tools.
Disconnect the power before servicing the pump.

Pump fails to operate:| Check to be sure that power cord is securely plugged into outlet or securely wired into controller or switch box. Disconnect power to outlet before handling pump or motor.
---|---
| Check to be sure you have electrical power.
| Check that water level in basin is high enough to activate switch or controller.
| Check to be sure that the anti-airlock hole in the pump discharge is not plugged.
| Check for blockage in pump inlet, impeller, check valve or discharge pipe.
| Check if the float switch is caught on something.
Pump fails to empty sump:| Be sure any valves in discharge pipe are fully open.
| Clean out discharge pipe and check valve.
| Check for blockage in pump inlet or impeller.
| Pump not sized properly. A higher capacity pump may be required.
Pump will not shut off:| Check switch for proper operation.
| If pump is completely inoperative or continues to malfunction, consult a qualified service person.

Retain Original Receipt for Warranty Eligibility
Limited Warranty

This Limited Warranty is effective June 1, 2011 and replaces all undated warranties and warranties dated before June 1, 2011. SIMER warrants to the original consumer purchaser (“Purchaser” or “You”) that its products are free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of twelve (12) months from the date of the original consumer purchase. If, within twelve (12) months from the original consumer purchase, any such product shall prove to be defective, it shall be repaired or replaced at SIMER’s option, subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein. Note that this limited warranty applies to manufacturing defects only and not to ordinary wear and tear. All mechanical devices need periodic parts and service to perform well. This limited warranty does not cover repair when normal use has exhausted the life of a part or the equipment.
The original purchase receipt and product warranty information label are required to determine warranty eligibility. Eligibility is based on purchase date of original product – not the date of replacement under warranty. The warranty is limited to repair or replacement of original purchased product only, not replacement product (i.e. one warranty replacement allowed per purchase). Purchaser pays all removal, installation, labor, shipping, and incidental charges.
For parts or troubleshooting assistance, DO NOT return product to your retail store. Contact SIMER Customer Service at 800-468-7867.
Claims made under this warranty shall be made by returning the product (except sewage pumps, see below) to the retail outlet where it was purchased or to the factory immediately after the discovery of any alleged defect. SIMER will subsequently take corrective action as promptly as reasonably possible. No requests for service will be accepted if received more than 30 days after the warranty expires. Warranty is not transferable and does not apply to products used in commercial/rental applications.
Sewage Pumps
DO NOT return a sewage pump (that has been installed) to your retail store. Contact SIMER Customer Service. Sewage pumps that have seen service and been removed carry a contamination hazard with them.
If your sewage pump has failed:

  • Wear rubber gloves when handling the pump;
  • For warranty purposes, return the pump’s cord tag and original receipt of purchase to the retail store;
  • Dispose of the pump according to local disposal ordinances.

Exceptions to the Twelve (12) Month Limited Warranty

Product Warranty Period
BW85P, M40P 90 days
2115, 2300, 2310, 2330, 2943, 2955, 2956, 2957, A5500 2 Years
4” Submersible Well Pumps, 2945, 2958, 2975PC, 3075SS, 3963, 3984, 3995 3

Years
Pre-Charged Pressure Tanks, 3985, 3986, 3988, 3989, 5910, 5950, 5955, 5965, 5975| 5 Years

General Terms and Conditions; Limitation of Remedies
You must pay all labor and shipping charges necessary to replace product covered by this warranty. This warranty does not apply to the following: (1) acts of God; (2) products which, in SIMER’s sole judgement, have been subject to negligence, abuse, accident, misapplication, tampering, or alteration; (3) failures due to improper installation, operation, maintenance or storage; (4) atypical or unapproved application, use or service; (5) failures caused by corrosion, rust or other foreign materials in the system, or operation at pressures in excess of recommended maximums.
This warranty sets forth SIMER’s sole obligation and purchaser’s exclusive remedy for defective products.
SIMER SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY CONSEQUENTIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONTINGENT DAMAGES WHATSOEVER. THE FOREGOING WARRANTIES ARE EXCLUSIVE AND IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER EXPRESS AND IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. THE FOREGOING WARRANTIES SHALL NOT EXTEND BEYOND THE DURATION PROVIDED HEREIN.
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages or limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitations or exclusions may not apply to You. This warranty gives You specific legal rights and You may also have other rights which vary from state to state.

SIMER
293 Wright Street
Delavan, WI U.S.A. 53115
Phone: 800-468-7867
Fax: 800-390-5351
www.simerpump.com
For parts or assistance, call Simer Customer Service at 1-800-468-7867 / 1-800-546-7867

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