Little GIANT 6 Series Sump Pumps Owner’s Manual

: June 12, 2024
: Little Giant

Table of Contents

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
INSTALLATION
Physical Installation
Power Supply
OPERATION TESTING
MAINTENANCE
Troubleshooting
Replacement Parts
References
Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
Download This Manual (PDF format)

Little GIANT 6 Series Sump Pumps

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

Hazard Messages

This manual includes safety precautions and other important information in the following formats:

Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate personal injury.

Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided could result in damage to equipment or other property.

IMPORTANT: Identifies information that controls correct assembly and operation of the product.

NOTE: Identifies helpful or clarifying information.

This symbol alerts the user to the presence of dangerous voltage inside the product that might cause harm or electrical shock.

This symbol alerts the user to the presence of hot surfaces that might cause fire or personal injury

Before Getting Started

This equipment should be installed and serviced by technically qualified personnel who are familiar with the correct selection and use of appropriate tools, equipment, and procedures. Failure to comply with national and local electrical and plumbing codes and within Little Giant recommendations may result in electrical shock or fire hazard, unsatisfactory performance, or equipment failure.

Know the product’s application, limitations, and potential hazards. Read and follow instructions carefully to avoid injury and property damage. Do not disassemble or repair unit unless described in this manual.

Refer to product data plate(s) for additional precautions, operating instructions, and specifications.

Failure to follow installation or operation procedures and all applicable codes may result in the following hazards:

Risk of death, personal injury, or property damage due to explosion, fire, or electric shock.

Do not use to pump flammable, combustible, or explosive fluids such as gasoline, fuel oil, kerosene, etc.
Do not use in explosive atmospheres or hazardous locations as classified by the NEC, ANSI/NFPA70.
Do not handle a pump or pump motor with wet hands or when standing on a wet or damp surface, or in water.
When a pump is in its application, do not touch the motor, pipes, or water until the unit is unplugged or electrically disconnected.
If the power disconnect is out of sight, lock it in the open position and tag it to prevent unexpected application of power.
If the disconnect panel is not accessible, contact the electric company to stop service.

High voltages capable of causing severe injury or death by electrical shock are present in this unit.

To reduce risk of electrical shock, disconnect power before working on or around the system. More than one disconnect switch may be required to de-energize the equipment before servicing.
This product is supplied with a grounding conductor and grounding-type attachment plug. To reduce risk of electric shock, be certain that it is connected only to a properly grounded grounding-type receptacle. Do not remove the third prong from the plug. The third prong is to ground the pump to help prevent possible electric shock hazard. Do not use an extension cord.
Be certain that this pump is connected to a circuit equipped with a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) device.
Wire pump system for correct voltages

Risk of damage to pump or other equipment.

Do not use this pump for pumping sea water, beverages,
acids, chemical solutions, or any other liquid that promotes corrosion as this can result in damage to the pump.1
Do not run pump dry. For optimal cooling and to prolong the motor life, the liquid level being pumped should normally be above the top of the pump housing.
This pump is not suitable for pond applications.

1 Except CB Models

Risk of bodily injury, electric shock, or property damage.

This equipment must not be used by children or persons with reduced physical, sensory, or mental abilities, or lacking in experience and expertise, unless supervised or instructed. Children may not use the equipment, nor may they play with the unit or in the immediate vicinity.
Equipment can start automatically. Always unplug the pump power cord and disconnect the electrical power before servicing the pump or switch. Lockout-Tagout before servicing equipment.
An inoperative or malfunctioning pump could lead to flooding, resulting in personal injury or property damage.
In applications where property damage and/or personal injury might result from an inoperative or leaking pump due to power outages, discharge line blockage, or any other reason, an automatic back-up system and/or an alarm should be installed.
Do not run the pump dry. If run dry, the surface temperature of the pump will rise to a high temperature that could cause skin burns if touched, and will cause serious damage to the pump.
The pump has been evaluated for use with water only. Pump should only be used with liquids compatible with pump component materials. If the pump is used with liquids incompatible with the pump components, the liquid can cause failure to the electrical insulation system resulting in electrical shock.
Do not oil the motor. The pump’s motor housing is sealed, and contains a high-grade dielectric oil for heat transfer and lifetime lubrication. Use of other oils could cause serious electric shock and/or permanent damage to the pump.
Operation of this equipment requires detailed installation and operation instructions provided in this manual for use with this product. Read entire manual before starting installation and operation. End User should receive and retain manual for future use.
Keep safety labels clean and in good condition.
Keep work area clean, well-lit, and uncluttered.
Wear safety glasses while installing or performing maintenance on the pump.
Do not wear loose clothing, jewelry, or anything that may be caught in the rotating parts. Tie up long hair and remove jewelry.

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

This submersible pump is for use in basins or lift stations and is suitable for pumping clear water. Do not use the pump in applications where effluent (gray water), sewage, or any other debris (gravel, sand, floating debris, etc.), abrasives, or corrosives are present. The pump comes with a 1½-inch female pipe thread discharge and a 1¼-inch FNPT reducing bushing. Sump pumps can be piped to discharge into the house drainage system, to a dry well, splash block, or to a storm drain, depending on local plumbing codes. Both automatic and manual versions of these pumps are available.

The pump motor is equipped with an automatic resetting thermal protector, and may restart unexpectedly. Thermal Protector tripping is an indication of motor overloading or overheating, which can be caused by application issues such as an obstructed pump impeller, switch stuck in the ON position, pump running dry, pump air-locked, pump short cycling, excessively high or low voltage supply, or possibly a pump, motor, bearings, or seal that have reached the end of their useful life.

This product is covered by a Limited Warranty for a period of 3 years from the date of original purchase by the consumer. For complete warranty information, refer to www.LittleGiant.com; or call Customer Support for a printed copy

Models

Model

| Pump Activation Method| HP| PSI| Voltage|

Amps

---|---|---|---|---|---

6-CIA

| Automatic with diaphragm switch| ⅓| 7.8| 115 or 230 *****|

15 or 10

6-CIM

| Manual

6-CIM-R

|

115

|

15

6-CIM-RS

| Automatic with remote diaphragm switch
6-CIA-RFS|

Automatic with remote float switch

6-CIA-ML

| Automatic with diaphragm switch

6-CBA

6-CBM|

Manual

Pumps are not dual voltage.

Manual pumps can be converted to Automatic mode by installing a separate liquid level control, such as an RS-5 Remote Switch kit.

Flow Rates

Gallons/Liters per Minute at height

| Shut Off
---|---

5 ft (1.5 m)

| 10 ft (3 m)|

15 ft (4.5 m)

46 / 174| 29 / 110| 12.5 / 47.3|

18 ft (5.5 m)

INSTALLATION

Typical Installation

Installation

Outlet minimum 4 ft (1.2 m) above floor level
Union
Gas tight basin
Air bleed hole
Pump
Intake
Pump power cord
Basin cover
Basin vent
Discharge
Check valve
Gate valve

Physical Installation

Risk of severe injury or death by electrical shock.

Always disconnect the electrical power before touching the pump or discharge.
Check local electrical and building codes before installation. The installation must be in accordance with their regulations as well as the most recent National Electrical Code (NEC).

Risk of property damage due to flooding.

If the relief hole in the discharge pipe is not provided, the pump could “air lock” and will not pump water even though it will run.
A missing, improperly installed, or malfunctioning check valve can cause a pump to short-cycle due to back-flow of the pumped fluid from the discharge plumbing back into the basin, significantly shortening the life of the pump.

Install the pump in the center of a suitable basin that is at least 18 inches in diameter and 24 inches deep in accordance with local plumbing codes.
NOTE: Diaphragm switch models may be used in basins 10 inches in diameter.
• Clean any debris from the basin.
• Refer to “Typical Installation” on page 5.
Place the pump-basin assembly on a hard, level surface.
• Never place the pump directly on clay, earth or gravel surfaces. These surfaces contain small stones, gravel, sand etc. that may clog or damage the pump and cause pump failure.
• Do not restrict the intake of the pump as this may damage the seal and starve the pump.
Install discharge piping.
• The discharge pipe should be as short as possible and contain as few elbows as possible.
• Do not use piping smaller than the pump discharge.
• Use pipe joint compound at all connections.
• Support the pump and piping. Failure to do so may cause the piping to break, the pump to fail,motor bearing failures, etc.
• If reduced flow rates are required, place a valve on the pump discharge or, if flexible vinyl tubing is used, a clamp on the tubing.
• Install a union in the discharge line just above the basin cover for ease of maintenance.
Install a full-flow check valve in the discharge line horizontally to prevent back-flow of liquid into the basin.
• If installed vertically, solids may settle in the valve and prevent it from opening at start-up.
Drill a 1 /8-inch or 3 /16-inch diameter relief hole in the discharge pipe below the floor line between the pump discharge and check valve.
Tape the pump and switch cords to the discharge pipe with electrical tape to keep the power cords securely routed away from the pump inlet and any control floats.
IMPORTANT: Automatic models using a diaphragm switch include a breather tube that runs through the power cord. On models with a hardwired connection, this tube extends from the end of the cord. On models with a plug, the tube is integrated into the plug. Be sure the tube is not obstructed, pinched, or kinked during installation.
Connect the pump to an appropriate power supply. Refer to “Electrical Connections” on page 7.
Test the operation of the system. Refer to “Operation Testing” on page 9.
IMPORTANT: Do not attempt to operate the pump without water.
Place cover over basin to help prevent debris from entering the pit and guard against accidental injury.

Electrical Connections

Risk of severe injury or death by electrical shock.

Always disconnect the electrical power before touching the pump or discharge.
Some pumps are supplied with lead wires and are intended to be hardwired using a junction box or other approved enclosure. The pumps include a grounding connector. To reduce risk of electric shock, be certain that it is properly connected to ground.
Some pumps are supplied with a grounding conductor and grounding-type attachment plug. To reduce risk of electric shock, be certain that it is connected only to a properly grounded grounding type receptacle. Do not remove the third prong from the plug. The third prong is to ground the pump to help prevent possible electric shock hazard. Do not use an extension cord.
Do not remove the third prong from the plug, or cut plug from cord. These actions will void the warranty.
Check electrical outlets with a circuit analyzer to ensure power, neutral, and ground wires are properly connected. If not, a qualified, licensed electrician should correct the problem.
The flexible jacketed cord assembly mounted to the pump must not be modified in any way, with the exception of shortening the cord to fit into a control panel. Any splice between the pump and the control panel must be made within a junction box mounted outside of the basin and comply with the National Electrical Code.
Do not use the power cord for lifting the pump.
Do not use an extension cord.

Wiring Guidelines

Check the pump label for proper voltage required.
Connect to a circuit equipped with a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) device if required by code.
• Do not connect to a voltage other than that shown.
• The pump should be connected or wired to its own circuit with no other electric receptacles or equipment in the circuit.
• The fuses or circuit breaker should be of ample capacity in the electrical circuit. For amperage ratings, refer to nameplate and “Product Description” on page 4.

Power Supply

Risk of severe injury or death by electrical shock.

In a 230 V direct wire installation, one side of the line going to the pump is always electrically energized, regardless of whether the liquid level control switch is open or closed. To avoid hazards when installing or servicing, install a double-pole disconnect near the pump installation.
Be sure the electrical connection cannot be reached by rising water. Under no circumstances should the junction box be located where it may become flooded or submerged by water.

Models With Stripped Wire Ends

Some models are supplied with a stripped wire cord end. Power connections, along with any liquid level control, must be made within a junction box mounted outside of the basin, and must comply with the National Electrical Code. Employ a licensed electrician.

Power Supply

The power cord wires are color coded as follows:

Color Wire Type

Green (or green/yellow)| Ground
Black (or brown)| Line
White (or blue)| Line (230 V) or neutral (115 V)

To add a liquid level control to a hardwired pump, use the diagram to the right.

Power Supply

Automatic Pump Models

Pumps equipped with an integral automatic diaphragm switch include one master power cord for both the pump and the switch. Plug the cord into a GFCI outlet. Models with a float switch, or remote diaphragm switch, include two power cords with a piggyback plug on the switch cord. For automatic operation, plug the pump cord into the switch cord. Plug the switch cord (with pump cord attached) into a GFCI outlet.

Power Supply

Manual Pump Models

Manual pumps are plugged into a dedicated GFCI receptacle and are controlled either by switching the power or by unplugging the cord.

Manual, continuous pump operation should be used only for emergencies, or when a large volume of water is to be pumped. The pump must be continuously monitored during manual operation and disconnected from power before the pump runs dry.

Manual pumps can be converted to automatic mode by installing a separate liquid level control. Install according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

OPERATION TESTING

Risk of damage to pump or other equipment.

Do not attempt to run the pump without water; this could result in permanent damage to the pump.
If pump is run dry, it may damage pump and void the warranty.

If the unit is going to be idle for a period of time, follow the cleaning instructions in “Cleaning Impeller and Volute” on page 12. Do not let the unit freeze. This may cause cracking or distortion that may destroy the unit.

Testing Automatic Pump Operation

Pump models 6-CIA, 6-CIA-RS, and 6-CBA are equipped with a diaphragm switch that operates by balancing water and air pressure. Rising water in the basin applies pressure to the diaphragm, which activates the switch, turning on the pump. As the water level falls, the pressure decreases until the switch deactivates, turning off the pump. For the switch to function properly, it is vented to the atmosphere through a breather tube routed through the pump’s power cord. Non-restrictive air flow in the breather tube is required.

Pump model 6-CIA-RFS is equipped with a remote float switch with a piggyback plug on the switch cord.

The pump must be plugged into the piggyback switch cord for automatic operation. When the pump is installed in a basin with a sealed cover, pump operation cannot be observed. The basin cover will usually have a spare hole that is plugged with a rubber plug. This plug can be removed and pump operation can be observed.

To test system operation, follow these steps:

Connect the pump to power with correct voltage. Refer to the pump nameplate.
If applicable, be sure the gate valve on the discharge line is open.
Run water into the basin until the pump is activated. Do not attempt to run the pump without water.
Confirm that the pump and its control switch are functioning as intended.
NOTE: If the pump doesn’t turn on, test the switch. Refer to “Testing the Diaphragm Switch” on page 10 or “Testing the Float Switch” on page 10.
Confirm that the ON/OFF levels are within specification.
Make sure no potential obstructions exist that could inhibit switch operation.
Verify there are no leaks in the pump discharge plumbing and main home drain pipe plumbing.
NOTE : It is normal for a stream of water to spray from the air bleed hole in the pump’s plumbing. Water also sprays out of a hole in the base of the unit. Confirm that this spray is captured within the basin.
Allow the pump to operate through several on/off cycles.

Testing the Diaphragm Switch

Operation Testing

NOTE: This test is recommended for bench testing only.

To test the functionality of the diaphragm switch without submersing it in water, suction (vacuum) must be applied to the open end of the breather tube (1) at the power cord plug or stripped end of the power cord. Suction can be applied using a suction bulb syringe (2).

The suction causes the switch diaphragm to draw inward, activating the switch inside the switch housing. When syringe is released, the diaphragm returns to its original position deactivating the switch inside the switch housing.

Squeeze the bulb of the syringe.
Insert the small end into the breather tube of the power cord.
Release the bulb to induce suction/vacuum.
Listen for the switch to make a click sound.
Once the suction/vacuum equalizes, listen for the diaphragm switch to release.

Testing the Float Switch

A float switch can be bench tested by using an ohmmeter to check for continuity between the incoming and outgoing connections of the piggyback plug while raising and lowering the float.

Operation Testing

Testing Manual Pump Operation

Risk of bodily injury or damage to pump or other equipment.

Manual, continuous pump operation should be used only for emergencies, or when a large volume of water is to be pumped. The pump must be continuously monitored during operation and disconnected from power before the pump runs dry.
If an accessory float switch or other liquid level control is installed, refer to manufacturer’s instructions. Failure to install control in compliance with national and local electrical and plumbing codes and within manufacturer’s recommendations may result in electrical shock or fire hazard, unsatisfactory performance, or equipment failure.

Pump models 6-CIM, 6-CIM-R, and 6-CBM are manual pumps.

For automatic operation of a manual pump, a separate float switch or other liquid level control may be used. If a float switch or level control has been added, refer to “Testing Automatic Pump Operation” on page 9 for test procedure.

Connect a discharge hose to the pump’s discharge port.
Place pump into a basin or test reservoir.
Direct the opposite end of the discharge hose back into the basin or test reservoir so the water discharged from the hose during testing will be contained within the basin or test reservoir.
• Secure the hose to prevent the water pressure created during testing from causing the hose to exit the basin or test reservoir.
If there is a gate valve on the discharge line, be sure the valve is open.
Using a separate water source, fill the basin or test reservoir until the pump is fully submerged.
• Do not attempt to run the pump without water; this could result in permanent damage to the pump.
• Do not overfill the basin or test reservoir.
If the pump is provided with an attachment plug on the power cord, plug the pump’s power cord into a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) receptacle with voltage consistent with the pump voltage, as indicated on the pump nameplate.
• If the pump is hardwired, turn on the circuit breaker for the pump’s power circuit.
Confirm that the pump is functioning as intended.
If pump is not functioning as intended, disconnect power from the pump and refer to “Troubleshooting” on page 13. If the solution still cannot be found, please contact the place of purchase or an authorized service center.
If the pump is functioning as intended, disconnect power from the pump before attempting to remove it from the basin or test reservoir.

MAINTENANCE

Risk of severe injury or death by electrical shock, high temperatures, or pressurized fluids.

Always unplug the pump power cord and disconnect the electrical power before servicing the pump or switch.
Let pump cool for a minimum of 2 hours before attempting to service. Submersible pumps contain oil that becomes pressurized and hot under normal operating conditions.

Risk of damage to pump or other equipment.

This unit is permanently lubricated. Oiling is not required. Do not open the sealed portion of the unit or remove housing screws.
Do not remove the motor housing cover.
Do not remove the impeller. Warranty is void if the motor housing cover, impeller, or seals have been removed. Repairs on the motor or impeller require special tools.

Periodic Service

Inspect and test the pump system condition and operation every three months—more frequently in heavy use applications.

Check the power cords, electric receptacle, and/or junction box for damage or corrosion.
NOTE: The power cord on these units cannot be replaced. If damaged, replace the complete unit.
Remove all debris (gravel, sand, floating debris, etc.) from the basin.
Check the pump system components (basin, pump, switch, etc.) for any build-up (sludge, sediment, minerals, etc.) that would inhibit functionality of the components. If significant, remove build-up or replace affected components.
Confirm all flexible coupling hose clamps are fully engaged with plumbing and fully tightened.
Test operation of the pump system. Refer to “Operation Testing” on page 9.
While the pump is running, make sure a stream of water is escaping from the air bleed hole. If not, clear the hole of any deposits or debris.

Cleaning Impeller and Volute

Periodic cleaning of the pump parts will prolong the life and efficiency of the pump. Refer to the assembly and disassembly of the pumping head.

After removing power to the pump, disconnect the pump from the discharge plumbing.
Remove the five screws that hold the base to the volute, then separate the base from the volute.
Remove the base and clean the impeller and the volute passage.
IMPORTANT: Do not use strong solvents on the impeller.
Be sure the impeller turns freely after cleaning.
Attach the base to the volute, making sure the seal is properly aligned.

Troubleshooting

Problem| Probable Causes|

Corrective Action

---|---|---
Pump does not turn on| Pump not connected to electrical power.| Connect pump to a dedicated circuit equipped with GFCI.
Circuit breaker off or fuse removed.| Turn on circuit breaker or replace fuse.
For models equipped with diaphragm switch: Breather tube kinked, pinched or blocked.| Confirm power cord is not kinked or pinched and confirm that breather tube end opening is not blocked.
For models equipped with tethered float switch: Accumulation of trash or build- up on float.| Clean float.
For models equipped with tethered float switch: Float obstruction.| Check float path and provide clearance.
Defective switch.| Replace switch.
Defective motor.| Replace pump.
Pump will not shut off| Float obstruction.| Check float path and provide clearance.
Pump is air locked due to missing or clogged air relief hole.| If missing, drill an air relief hole as described in “Physical Installation” on page 6. If clogged, clean obstruction from air relief.
Liquid inflow matches pump capacity.| Larger pump required.
For models equipped with diaphragm switch: Breather tube kinked, pinched or blocked.| Confirm power cord is not kinked or pinched and confirm that breather tube end opening is not blocked.
Defective switch.| Replace switch.
Pump runs but does not discharge liquid| Check valve installed backwards.| Check flow indicating arrow on check valve body to ensure proper installation.
Check valve stuck or plugged.| Remove check valve and inspect for proper operation.
Lift too high for pump.| Check rated pump performance.
Inlet to impeller plugged.| Pull pump and clean.
Pump is air locked due to missing or clogged air relief hole.| If missing, drill an air relief hole as described in “Physical Installation” on page 6. If clogged, clean obstruction from air relief.
Pump does not deliver rated capacity| Lift too high for pump.| Check rated pump performance.
Low voltage, speed too slow.| Check that supply voltage matches the nameplate rating.
Impeller or discharge pipe is clogged.| Pull pump and clean. Check pipe for scale or corrosion.
Impeller wear due to abrasives.| Replace pump.
Pump cycles continuously| No check valve in long discharge pipe allowing liquid to drain back into basin.| Install a check valve in discharge line.
Check valve leaking.| Inspect check valve for correct operation.
Basin too small for inflow.| Install larger basin.
Water sprays out of a hole in the base of the unit.| This pump comes with a bleed hole that allows trapped air to escape from the pump, preventing air lock.
Water spraying out of this hole is com- pletely normal.| No corrective action is required.

Replacement Parts

Item| Description| Pump Model(s)| Kit Model| Order Number
---|---|---|---|---
1| Handle, Pump| All 6 Series Models| N/A| 108101
2| Seal Ring| 928004
3| Pump Base, Air Bleed| 6-CIA, 6-CBA| 106079
Pump Base| 6-CIM, 6-CIM-R,
6-CIA-RFS, 6-CBM| 106181
4| 6 Series Models Screw/Washer #10-24 x 1/2″ set (QTY: 5)| All 6 Series Models| 909021
5| Screen Intake| 108482
6| AD-6 Adapter| 6-CIM, 6-CIM-R| 599026
N/A| GH-¾ Garden Hose Adapter| 599025
N/A| Switch Kit (pressure switch bracket assembly, screw, diaphragm, O-ring, and housing if applicable| 6-CIA and 6-CBA| SPRK-1 | 599300
6-CIA-ML (used in WRSC-6 package system)| SPRK-1-ML | 599310
6-CIA and 6-CBA| SPRK-2| 599320
6-CIA-ML (used in WRSC-6 package system)| SPRK-2-ML| 299314