REDLION RL-SP25T Thermoplastic Sump Pumps Owner’s Manual

REDLION RL-SP25T Thermoplastic Sump Pumps

Product Information

• Thermoplastic pump pumps are submersible pumps designed for use in basins or lift stations. They are suitable for pumping clear water and other non-explosive, non-corrosive liquids. However, they should not be used in applications where sewage or any other debris (gravel, sand, floating debris, etc.), abrasives, or corrosives are present.
• The pump motor is equipped with an automatic resetting thermal protector, which may cause the motor to restart unexpectedly. If the thermal protector trips, it indicates motor overloading or overheating.
• This product is covered by a Limited Warranty for a period of 2 years from the date of original purchase by the consumer. For complete warranty information, refer to www.redlionproducts.com.

Specifications

Model| HP| Amps| Volts| Switch Type| ON Level inches (cm)| OFF Level inches (cm)| Minimum Basin Diameter inches (cm)
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---
RL-SP25T| 1/4| 6| –| Tethered| 14.5 (36.8)| 7.25 (18.4)| 14 (35.6)
RL-SP33T| 1/3| 4.4| –| Tethered| 14 (35.6)| 7.25 (18.4)| 11 (27.9)
RL-SP33V| 1/3| –| –| Vertical| 14 (35.6)| 7.25 (18.4)| 11 (27.9)
RL-SP50T| 1/2| 6.5| –| Tethered| 5.5 (14.0)| 2.75 (7.0)| 14 (35.6)
RL-SP50V| 1/2| –| –| Vertical| 6 (15.2)| 2.75 (7.0)| 11 (27.9)

Product Usage Instructions

Safety Instructions
Risk of bodily injury, electric shock, or equipment damage.

Typical Installation

1. Ensure the outlet is a minimum of 4 ft (1.2 m) above floor level.
2. Connect the float switch power cord.
3. Connect the pump power cord.
4. Installed with gate valve.
5. Install a check valve.
6. Connect the discharge pipe.
7. Provide a wind basin.
8. Place the basin cover.
9. Install a vertical float switch if applicable.
10. Use a gas-tight basin if applicable.
11. Create an air bleed hole if applicable.
12. Use a union for easy pump removal if applicable.

Installation – Physical Installation
To prevent back-flow of the pumped fluid from the discharge plumbing back into the basin, it is important to follow these steps:

1. Install a check valve in the discharge pipe.
2. Ensure the check valve is oriented correctly.
3. Install a gate valve to isolate the pump for maintenance or repair.
4. Drill a relief hole in the discharge pipe below the floor line and between the pump discharge and check valve. The hole should be 1/8- or 3/16-inch in diameter.
5. Install a shut-off valve following the check valve.
6. Secure the pump and switch cords to the discharge line.
7. Place the cover over the basin.

Operation – Testing Electrical Connections
Connect the power cord to a constant source of power matching the pump nameplate voltage. Ensure the breaker size is 15 A for RL-SP Series pumps. If the power cord is damaged, the whole unit must be replaced.

Pumps with a tethered or vertical float switch include two power cords with a piggyback plug on the switch cord. To connect:

1. Plug the pump cord into the piggyback switch cord.
2. Plug the switch cord (with the pump cord attached) into a GFCI outlet.

Operation – Testing
To test pump operation independently of the float switch cord:

1. Install the pump.
2. Plug the pump cord directly into the outlet.
3. Run water into the basin.
4. Confirm that the pump and switches are functioning as intended.

Maintenance

Storage:
To prevent the risk of severe injury or death by electrical shock, avoid storing the pump in an area where it may become wet or submerged in water. Additionally, avoid exposing the pump to high temperatures, as it contains oil that becomes pressurized and hot under normal operating conditions.

FAQs

• Q: Can I use this pump for pumping sewage?
  A: No, this pump is not suitable for pumping sewage or any other debris, abrasives, or corrosives. It is designed for pumping clear water and non- explosive, non-corrosive liquids only.

• Q: What is the warranty period for this product?
  A: The product is covered by a Limited Warranty for a period of 2 years from the date of original purchase by the consumer. For complete warranty information, refer to www.redlionproducts.com.

Thermoplastic Sump Pumps

• This submersible pump is for use in basins or lift stations and is suitable for pumping clear water and other non-explosive, non-corrosive liquids. Do not use the pump in applications where sewage or any other debris (gravel, sand, floating debris, etc.), abrasives, or corrosives are present.
• The pump motor is equipped with an automatic resetting thermal protector and may restart unexpectedly. Thermal Protector tripping indicates motor overloading or overheating.
• This product is covered by a Limited Warranty for a period of 2 years from the date of original purchase by the consumer. For complete warranty information, refer to www.redlionproducts.com.

Specifications

Model

| ****

HP

| ****

Amps

| ****

Volts

| Switch Type| ON Level inches (cm)| OFF Level inches (cm)| Minimum Basin Diameter inches (cm)
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---
RL-SP25T| 1/4| 6| ****

115

| Tethered| 14.5 (36.8)| 5.5 (14.0)| 14 (35.6)
RL-SP33T| 1/3| 4.4
RL-SP33V| Vertical| 7.25 (18.4)| 2.75 (7.0)| 11 (27.9)
RL-SP50T| 1/2| 6.5| Tethered| 14 (35.6)| 6 (15.2)| 14 (35.6)
RL-SP50V| Vertical| 7.25 (18.4)| 2.75 (7.0)| 11 (27.9)

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

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 Red Lion recommendations may result in electrical shock or fire hazards, 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 the 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:

Danger:
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 until the unit is unplugged or electrically disconnected.
• 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.

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

• To reduce the risk of electrical shock, disconnect the power before working on or around the system. More than one disconnect switch may be required to de-energize the equipment before servicing.
• 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), Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA), and Canadian Electrical Code (CEC).
• This product is supplied with a grounding conductor and grounding-type attachment plug. To reduce the 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 hazards. Do not use an extension cord.
• Be sure the electrical connection cannot be reached by rising water.
• 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.
• Wire pump system for correct voltages.
• Do not use the power cord for lifting the pump.
• This pump has not been investigated for use in swimming pools or marine areas.

Caution:
Risk of bodily injury, electric shock, or equipment 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.
• This pump has been evaluated for use with water only. The 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.
• 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 backup system and/or an alarm should be installed.
• Do not run the pump dry. If runs 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.
• 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. The 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 the entire manual before starting installation and operation. The end User should receive and retain the manual for future use.
• Keep safety labels clean and in good condition.
• Keep the 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.
• Be certain that this pump is connected to a circuit equipped with a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) device.
• An acceptable motor control switch shall be provided at the time of installation.
• Do not use this pump for pumping any liquid intended for human consumption.

Notice:
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.
• Do not run the 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.
• The warranty is void if the motor housing cover or power cord has been removed.

INSTALLATION

Typical Installation

1. Outlet minimum 4 ft (1.2 m) above floor level
2. Float switch power cord
3. Pump power cord
4. Gate valve
5. Check valve
6. Discharge
7. Basin vent
8. Basin cover
9. 3½ inch (89 mm) tether length
10. Vertical float switch
11. Gas Tight Basin
12. Air Bleed Hole
13. Union

Physical Installation

Warning:
Risk of severe injury or death by electrical shock.

• Always disconnect the electrical power before touching the pump or discharge.

Notice:
Risk of damage to pump or other equipment.

• Support pump and piping when assembling and when installed. Failure to do so may cause piping to break, pump to fail, motor bearing failures, etc.
• 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.

1. Install the pump in the center of a suitable basin that is at least 18 inches (45.7 cm) in diameter and 24 inches (61 cm) deep in accordance with local plumbing codes.

   • Clean any debris from the basin.
   • Refer to “Typical Installation” on page 4.

2. Place the pump-basin assembly on a hard, level surface.

   • Never place the pump directly on clay, earth, or gravel surfaces.
   • Do not restrict the intake of the pump as this may damage the seal and starve the pump.

3. 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.
   • 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.

4. Install a full-flow check valve in the discharge line horizontally.

   • A ball check valve is recommended.
     NOTE: If installed vertically, solids may settle in the valve and prevent it from opening at start-up.

5. Drill a 1/8- or 3/16-inch diameter relief hole in the discharge pipe below the floor line and between the pump discharge and check valve.
   NOTE: If not provided, the pump could “air lock” and will not pump water even though it will run.

6. Install a shut-off valve following the check valve.

7. Secure the pump and switch cords to the discharge line.

8. Place cover over the basin.

Electrical Connections

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

• Be certain that this pump is connected to a circuit equipped with a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) device if required by code.
  Connect the power cord to a constant source of power matching the pump nameplate voltage.

• Connect the pump to its own circuit, with no other electric receptacles or equipment in the circuit.

• Ensure that the fuses or circuit breakers are of ample capacity in the electrical circuit.

• Plug pumps into a properly grounded receptacle.

  • NOTE: RL-SP Series breaker size = 15 A.
  • IMPORTANT: If the power cord is damaged, the whole unit must be replaced.

Pumps with a tethered or vertical float switch include two power cords with a piggyback plug on the switch cord.

1. Plug the pump cord into the piggyback switch cord.
2. Plug the switch cord (with the pump cord attached) into a GFCI outlet.

OPERATION TESTING

Notice:
Risk of damage to pump or other equipment.

• Always check the power cord and electric receptacle for damage or corrosion before each use. The power cord on these units cannot be replaced. If damaged, replace the pump.
• Do not let the unit run dry (without liquid). It is designed to be cooled by pumping fluid. The seal may be damaged and the motor may fail if the pump is allowed to run dry.
• Do not let the unit freeze. This may cause cracking or distortion that may destroy the unit.

To test pump operation independently of the float switch cord, install the pump and plug the pump cord directly into the outlet.

1. Plug the pump and piggyback cord assembly into a grounded receptacle.
   • Ensure the gate valve in the discharge line is open.
2. Run water into the basin.
3. Confirm that the pump and switches are functioning as intended.
   • Ensure that the ON/OFF levels are within specification and that no potential obstructions exist that could inhibit switch operation. Refer to “Specifications”.
   • Confirm that there are no leaks in the system plumbing
   • Confirm that spray from the air bleed hole is captured within the basin.
4. Allow the pump to operate through several ON/OFF cycles.

MAINTENANCE

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

• Always unplug the pump power cord in addition to removing the fuse or shutting off the circuit breaker before working on the pump or switch.
• Let the 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.

Notice:
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 the housing screws.
• Do not remove the motor housing cover, impeller, or seals. The warranty is void if the motor housing cover, impeller, or seals have been removed. Repairs on the motor or impeller require special tools.

Storage

1. Disconnect the pump from the power source.
2. Remove the pump from the discharge plumbing.
3. Drain all liquid from the pump and allow it to dry thoroughly.
4. Store the pump in a warm, dry place.

Periodic Service

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

1. Check the power cords and electrical outlet for damage or corrosion.
   IMPORTANT: The unit must be replaced if the power cord is damaged.

2. Remove all debris (gravel, sand, floating debris, etc.) from the basin.

3. Check the pump system components (basin, pump, switch, etc.) for any build-up (sludge, sediment, minerals, etc.) that would inhibit the functionality of the components.

   • If significant, remove build-up or replace affected components.

4. Confirm that all plumbing fixtures are secure, not damaged, and functioning as intended.

5. Test operation of the pump system. Refer to “Operation Testing”.

Cleaning Impeller and Volute

1. Remove the screws that hold the base to the volute.

2. Separate the base and volute.

3. Clean the impeller and volute passage.
   IMPORTANT: Do not use strong solvents on the impeller.

4. Ensure the impeller freely rotates after cleaning.

5. Reattach the base to the volute and secure it with the screws.

Troubleshooting

The pump does not turn on

| The pump is not connected to electrical power| Connect the pump to a dedicated circuit equipped with GFCI.
Circuit breaker off or fuse removed| Turn on the circuit breaker or replace the fuse.
Accumulation of trash on float| Clean float.
Float obstruction| Check the float path and provide clearance.
Defective switch| Replace switch.
Defective motor| Replace pump.

The pump will not shut off

| Float or float rod obstruction| Check float and float rod path and provide clearance.
The pump is air-locked| Remove the pump and clean the air bleed hole.
Liquid inflow matches pump capacity| A larger pump is required.
Defective switch| Replace switch.

The pump runs but does not discharge liquid

| Check valve installed backward| Check the flow-indicating arrow on the check valve body to ensure proper installation.
The check valve is stuck or plugged| Remove the check valve and inspect for proper operation.
Lift too high for the pump| Check rated pump performance.
Inlet to impeller plugged| Pull the pump and clean.
The pump is air-locked| Remove the pump and clean the air bleed hole.

The pump does not deliver rated capacity

| Lift too high for the pump| Check rated pump performance.
Low voltage, speed too slow| Check that the supply voltage matches the nameplate rating.
The impeller or discharge pipe is clogged| Pull the pump and clean. Check the pipe for scale or corrosion.
Impeller wear due to abrasives| Replace pump.

Pump cycles continuously

| There is no check valve in the long discharge pipe allowing liquid to drain back into the basin| Install a check valve for correct operation.
Check valve leaking| Inspect the check valve for correct operation.
The basin too small for inflow| Install a larger basin.
Water sprays out of a hole in the discharge pipe| There should be a bleed hole in the discharge pipe that allows trapped air to escape the pump, preventing airlock. Water spraying out of this hole is completely normal| No corrective action is required.
Protector trip- ping (motor overloading/overheating)| Obstructed pump impeller| Pull the pump and clean.
Switch stuck in the ON position| Clean the float path and provide clearance.
Pump running dry| Ensure the pump has an adequate inflow supply.
Pump air-locked| Shut the power off for approximately 1 minute, then restart. Repeat several times to clear air from the pump.
Pump short cycling| Inspect the check valve for proper installation and operation.
Excessively high or low voltage supply| Refer to “Specifications”.
Inadequate wiring| Refer to “Electrical Connections”.
Incorrect motor connections
Misapplication of the product| Inspect fixtures, inlets, and outlets for leaks. Repair and correct application as needed.
Operating the pump at low heads (low discharge restriction)| Confirm pump performance and recheck sizing calculations.
Pump, motor, bearings, or seal have reached the end of their useful life| Replace pump.

Replacement Parts

For technical assistance, parts, or repair, please contact:

• 888.885.9254 | redlionproducts.com 998491 Rev. 004 01/23.

Copyright © 2023, Franklin Electric, Co., Inc. All rights reserved.

References

• Red Lion Pump Products
• Red Lion Pump Products

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