Liberty Pumps LE40 Submersible Sewage Pumps Installation Guide
- June 5, 2024
- Liberty Pumps
Table of Contents
- Liberty Pumps LE40 Submersible Sewage Pumps
- Inspection and Storage
- Pump Design
- Preparation
- Installation
- Guide Rail System
- Piggyback Switch Operation
- Automatic Pump Direct Wiring
- Applications
- Operation
- Maintenance and Troubleshooting
- Warranty
- References
- Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
- Download This Manual (PDF format)
Liberty Pumps LE40 Submersible Sewage Pumps
Safety Precautions
Safety Precautions
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Accidental contact with electrically live parts, items, fluid, or water can cause serious injury or death.
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Always disconnect pump(s) from power source(s) before handling or making any adjustments to either the pump(s), the pump system, or the control panel.
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All installation and maintenance of pumps, controls, protection devices, and general wiring shall be done by qualified personnel.
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All electrical and safety practices shall be in accordance with the National Electrical Code®, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or applicable local codes and ordinances.
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Do not remove cord and strain relief, and do not connect conduit to pump.
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Pump shall be properly grounded using its supplied grounding conductor. Do not bypass grounding wires or remove ground prong from attachment plugs. Failure to properly ground the pump system can cause all metal portions of the pump and its surroundings to become energized.
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Do not handle or unplug the pump with wet hands, when standing on damp surface, or in water unless wearing Personal Protective Equipment.
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Always wear dielectric rubber boots and other applicable Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when water is on the floor and an energized pump system must be serviced, as submerged electrical connections can energize the water. Do not enter the water if the water level is higher than the PPE protection or if the PPE is not watertight.
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Do not lift or carry a pump or a float assembly by its power cord. This will damage the power cord, and could expose the electrically live wires inside the power cord.
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The electrical power supply shall be located within the length limitations of the pump power cord, and for below grade installations it shall be at least 4 ft (1.22 m) above floor level. Do not use this product in applications where human contact with the pumped fluid is common (such as swimming pools, fountains, marine areas, etc.).
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Protect the power and control cords from the environment. Unprotected power and control (switch) cords can allow water to wick through ends into pump or switch housings, causing surroundings to become energized.
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Single-phase 208/230V pumps shall only be operated without the float switch by using the circuit breaker or panel disconnect.
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Some products may have internal capacitors that could cause shock. Avoid contact with plug ends after removing from energy source.
RISK OF FIRE -
Do not use an extension cord to power the product. Extension cords can overload both the product and extension cord supply wires. Overloaded wires will get very hot and can catch on fire.
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This product requires a separate, properly fused and grounded branch circuit, sized for the voltage and amperage requirements of the pump, as noted on the nameplate. Overloaded branch circuit wires will get very hot and can catch on fire. When Used, electrical outlets shall be simplex of the appropriate rating.
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For cord replacement: power cord must be of the same length and type as originally installed on the Liberty Pumps product. Use of incorrect cord may lead to exceeding the electrical rating of the cord and could result in death, serious injury, or other significant failure.
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Do not use this product with or near flammable or explosive fluids such as gasoline, fuel oil, kerosene, etc. If rotating elements inside pump strike any foreign object, sparks may occur. Sparks could ignite flammable liquids.
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Sewage and effluent systems produce and may contain flammable and explosive gases. Prevent introduction of foreign objects into basin as sparks could ignite these gases. Exercise caution using tools and do not use electronic devices or have live, exposed electrical circuits in or around basins, open covers and vents.
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Manual pumps that have been factory constructed with a power cord with no male attachment plug must use an approved motor control panel. Do not wire a switch in series with the pump power cord as this can overload the wires. Overloaded wires get very hot and can catch on fire.
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These pumps are not to be installed in locations classified as hazardous in accordance with the National Electric Code®, ANSI/NFPA 70.
RISK OF SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH -
Energizing the control panel or breaker for the first time is potentially dangerous. Licensed electrical personnel should be present when the panel or breaker is energized for the first time. If faults caused by damage or poor installation practices have not been detected, serious damage, injury or death can result when power is applied.
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Do not modify the pump/pump system in any way. Modifications may affect seals, change the electrical loading of the pump, or damage the pump and its components.
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All pump/pump system installations shall be in compliance with all applicable Federal, State, and Local codes and ordinances.
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Do not allow children to play with the pump system.
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Do not allow any person who is unqualified to have contact with this pump system. Any person who is unaware of the dangers of this pump system, or has not read this manual, can easily be injured by the pump system.
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Keep clear of suction and discharge openings. To prevent injury, never insert fingers into pump while it is connected to a power source.
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In 208/230V installations, one side of the line going to the pump is always “hot”, whether the float switch is on or off. To avoid hazards, install a double pole disconnect near the pump installation.
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Vent basin in accordance with local code. Proper venting of sewer and effluent gases alleviates poisonous gas buildup and reduces the risk of explosion and fire from these flammable gases.
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Wear adequate Personal Protective Equipment when working on pumps or piping that have been exposed to wastewater. Sump and sewage pumps often handle materials that can transmit illness or disease upon contact with skin and other tissues.
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Do not enter a pump basin after it has been used. Sewage and effluent can emit several gases that are poisonous.
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Do not remove any tags or labels from the pump or its cord.
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Do not use this product with flammable, explosive, or corrosive fluids. Do not use in a flammable and/or explosive atmosphere as serious injury or death could result.
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This product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. www.p65warnings.ca.gov.
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This pump has been evaluated for use with wastewater only.
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For pressure sewer applications, verify a Redundant Check Valve Assembly (curb stop and check valve) is installed between the pump discharge and the street main, as close to the public right-of-way as possible, on all installations to protect from system pressures.
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Verify 3-phase pumps for proper rotation prior to installing pump(s) in basin. To change rotation, reverse any two of the three power leads to the pump (not the ground). Code the wires for reconnection after installation.
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Do not dispose of materials such as paint thinner or other chemicals down drains. Doing so could chemically attack and damage pump system components and cause product malfunction or failure.
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Do not use pumps with fluid over 140°F (60°C). Operating the pump in fluid above this temperature can overheat the pump, resulting in pump failure.
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Do not use pump system with mud, sand, cement, hydrocarbons, grease, or chemicals. Pump and system components can be damaged from these items causing product malfunction or failure. Additionally, flooding can occur if these items jam the impeller or piping.
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Do not introduce any consumer item that is not toilet paper into a non-grinder (dewatering/effluent or sewage) pump/pump system. This includes, but is not limited to the following: feminine products, wipes, towels, towelettes, dental floss, swabs, pads, etc. Items such as these put the pump under undo strain and can result in pump/pump system failure. Additionally, it creates conditions for discharge line blockage.
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Submersible Pump—do not run dry.
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The Uniform Plumbing Code® states that sewage systems shall have an audio and visual alarm that signals a malfunction of the system, to reduce the potential for property damage.
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Do not exert heavy pressure or run heavy equipment on the backfill material as this could cause the tank to collapse.
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Do not position the pump float directly under the inlet from drain tile or in the direct path of any incoming water.
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Keep pump upright.
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Do not allow pump to freeze.
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At no time shall the pump be stored within an incomplete wet basin. The pump shall not be placed into the basin until it can be fully operational.
General Information
Before installation, read these instructions carefully. Each pump is
individually factory tested to ensure proper performance. Closely following
these instructions will eliminate potential operating problems, assuring years
of trouble-free service.
These pumps are to be used for handling septic tank effluent, sewage, and
drain (storm) water.
Provide pump serial number in all correspondence.
Pumps are certified by CSA Group to CSA and UL standards.
Pumps must be serviced at a qualified repair facility approved by Liberty
Pumps. No repair work should be carried out during the warranty period without
prior factory approval. Any unauthorized field repairs void warranty. Contact
Liberty Pumps at 1-800-543-2550 to
locate the closest authorized service center.
Operating Constraints
It is extremely important to verify that the pump has been sized correctly for the intended installation. The operating point of the pump must lie within the acceptable range as outlined by the applicable Liberty Pumps performance chart. Operating the pump outside of the recommended range can invalidate the CSA Certification of the pump and can also cause damage and premature failure. Operating outside of the recommended range can cause the pump to exceed its rated nameplate amp draw, which will void the pump certification. It can also cause motor overheating, cavitation, excessive vibration, clogging, and poor energy efficiency.
Model Specifications
For complete listing of pump models and their specifications, refer to http://www.LibertyPumps.com/About/Engineering-Specs. Pump nameplate provides a record of specific pump information.
Inspection and Storage
Initial Inspection
Inspect pump immediately for damage that may have occurred in shipment.
- Visually check the pump and any spare parts for damage.
- Check for damaged electrical wires, especially where they exit the motor housing.
Contact Liberty Pumps customer service to report any damage or shortage of parts.
Storage Before Use
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
- Protect the power and control cords from the environment. Unprotected power and control (switch) cords can allow water to wick through ends into pump or switch housings, causing surroundings to become energized.
- At no time shall the pump be stored within an incomplete wet basin. The pump shall not be placed into the basin until it can be fully operational.
- Do not allow the pump to freeze.
Pumps are shipped from the factory ready for installation and use. Hold the
pump in storage if the pump station is not complete.
If storage is necessary, the pump should remain in its shipping container. It
should be stored in a warehouse or storage shed that has a clean, dry
temperature-stable environment where the pump and its container are covered to
protect it from water, dirt, vibration, etc. The cord ends must be protected
against moisture.
Uninstalled pumps that are idle for greater than three months should have
impellers manually rotated once a month to lubricate the seals.
Pump Design
Some LE and LEH-Series pumps come equipped with an air bleed hole to help prevent airlock. A small spray of water from this hole is normal while pump is running.
Pump System Components
Control Panel
Manual models (“M” suffix) and 3-phase models require a separate, approved
pump control device or panel for automatic operation. Operation will be
according to the control panel selected. Refer to separate manufacturer’s
instructions supplied with the unit. Verify the electrical specifications for
the control panel properly match those of the pump. 3-phase models require
overload elements selected or adjusted in accordance with the control or panel
instructions. Mounting, installation, and wiring connections are specific to
the control panel used. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions supplied with
the unit.
IMPORTANT: When connecting a new pump to an existing control panel,
verify the panel is correctly sized and equipped for the pump.
Control panels designed for use with specific pumps available from Liberty
Pumps can be found at
http://www.LibertyPumps.com/Portals/0/Files/panel_selection_guide.pdf or
contact Liberty Pumps.
Float Switches
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
Single-phase 208/230V pumps shall only be operated without the float switch
by using the circuit breaker or panel disconnect.
Automatic Models
All LE-Series automatic models (“A” suffix) come factory- equipped with a
float switch mounted to the pump. These models come with two cords—one to the
float switch and the other to the pump motor. The switch cord has a series
(piggyback) plug enabling the pump motor cord to be plugged into the back of
it. The purpose of this design is to allow temporary manual operation of the
pump.
For manual operation, or in the event of float switch failure, the pump cord
can be separated and plugged into the electrical outlet, directly bypassing
the switch. Refer to Piggyback Switch Operation on page 7.
If using a differential other than the factory setting, verify that when the
pump turns off, the minimum fluid level left in the basin is per Table 1 so
the impeller remains submerged. Other pumping differentials may be obtained by
tethering the float switch cord to the discharge pipe.
Note: With wide-angle floats, a minimum cord length of 3-1/2” from the
tether point to the top surface of the float is required for proper float
switch operation.
Note: If the factory-mounted float is removed from the pump for
relocation to the discharge pipe, replace and tighten all pump hardware.
Switchless (Manual) Models
Manual pumps with no float switch are intended to be run using an approved
liquid level control or approved motor control with correct rating that
matches motor input in full load amperes. Regardless of the control type,
verify that when the pump shuts off, the minimum fluid level left in the basin
is per Table 1 so the impeller remains submerged.
IMPORTANT: Manual pumps factory constructed with a power cord with no
male attachment plug must use an approved motor control panel. Do not wire a
switch in series with the pump power cord.
Automatic operation with optional control devices: if the pump(s) are to be
operated by either a simplex or duplex control panel, or another optional
control device, follow the manufacturer’s instructions provided with the
control panel for power connections.
Float Switch Settings
Table 1 includes factory set float levels for automatic models. The turn OFF
level must be maintained as it is the minimum water depth to ensure proper
cooling. Manual pumps have user set turn ON levels.
Table 1. Factory Set Float Switch Settings
Model Series | Turn OFF Level | Turn ON Level |
---|---|---|
LE40 | 7” | 15” |
LE41AV | 5.5” | 11” |
LE50 | 6” | 14” |
LE51AV | 5.5” | 11” |
LE50 | 6” | 14” |
LE70 | 8.4” | 16.4” |
LE100 | 8.4” | 16.4” |
LEH150 | 9” | 16.5” |
LEH200 | 16.5” | user set |
Preparation
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
Always disconnect pump(s) from power source(s) before handling or making
any adjustments to either the pump(s), the pump system, or the control panel.
The basin required for both effluent and sewage applications must be sealed
and vented to meet health and plumbing code requirements. Proper basin size
and materials for specific applications vary depending on the type of system
and local codes. Check local codes prior to purchasing and installing the
basin.
The diameter should be a minimum of 18” and the depth a minimum of 24”. A
larger basin may be required depending on local codes and the number of
fixture units entering the system. Check with the local authorities or contact
Liberty Pumps if unsure of the proper basin size. Installation should be at a
sufficient depth to ensure that all plumbing is below the frost line. If this
is not feasible, size the basin and/or adjust pump differential to accommodate
the additional backflow volume.
Prepare Existing Sump [Basin] If replacing a previously installed pump,
prepare the basin by removing the old pump and cleaning any debris from the
basin. Inspect all remaining equipment in the basin including piping, valves,
and electrical junction boxes (if present) and repair or replace as
appropriate.
Prepare New Sump [Basin] Excavation
RISK OF SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH
Locate all overhead and underground utilities before excavating.
Excavate the hole as small as possible, with a minimum recommended 8″
diametrical clearance around the tank. Never place the basin directly in
contact with rocks or other sharp objects. Place only fine, 1/8” to 3/4” pea
gravel or 1/8” to 1/2” washed, crushed stone as bedding between the basin and
the hole walls. Do not use sand or native soil as backfill. Properly compact
underneath the basin to provide a solid, level base that can support the
weight of the filled basin.
Inlet Connection & Initial Backfill
Use only fine, 1/8” to 3/4” pea gravel or 1/8” to 1/2” washed, crushed stone
around the bottom of the basin to hold it in place. Do not use sand or native
soil as backfill.
Make the inlet connection as required per basin.
Liberty Pumps P370 and P380-Series basins have a 4″ inlet molded to the side
of the tank. This inlet is sized to accept a 4″ no-hub type coupling. Connect
the gravity drainage line from the fixtures to this hub.
Other Liberty Pumps basins provide a 4″ caulking hub or pipe grommet inlet.
Hubs utilize caulking material or rubber donuts; grommets are a simple slip-
fit. Connect the gravity drainage line from the fixtures to this opening.
Other inlet sizes are available, consult factory.
Final Backfill
Do not exert heavy pressure or run heavy equipment on the backfill material as this could cause the tank to collapse.
Keep large rocks, clods, and foreign objects out of the backfill material.
Only fine, 1/4” to 3/4” pea gravel, or 1/8” to 1/2” washed, crushed stone is
recommended. Do not use sand or native soil as backfill. Mound the backfill
slightly and allow for natural settling. Provide access to the basin cover for
maintenance and service.
Compaction of backfill materials must be adequate to ensure the support of the
tank, and to prevent movement or settlement.
Installation
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
- All installation and maintenance of pumps, controls, protection devices, and general wiring shall be done by qualified personnel.
- All electrical and safety practices shall be in accordance with the National Electrical Code®, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or applicable local codes and ordinances.
- For pressure sewer applications, verify a Redundant Check Valve Assembly (curb stop and check valve) is installed between the pump discharge and the street main, as close to the public right-of-way as possible, on all installations to protect from system pressures.
Electrical Connections
With main power disconnected, complete pump and control wiring connections per
manufacturer’s wiring diagrams included with the control panel as applicable.
Once connections are made, all wires should be checked for unintentional
grounds.
3-Phase Pump Rotation Verification
Check 3-phase pumps for proper rotation prior to installing pump(s) in
basin. To change rotation, reverse any two of the three power leads to the
pump (not the ground). Code the wires for reconnection after
installation.3-phase power uses three separate alternating currents that peak
at different integrals. With pumps that are powered by three phase electric,
the phase sequence of the motor must match the phase sequence of the power
source. When the phase sequences match, the pump operates properly. However,
when the phases are out of order, the pump runs backward (i.e., the impeller
rotates in the wrong direction). This causes an extreme loss of performance
and could raise the current draw, which could result in tripping an overload
or circuit breaker.
To ensure that the power to the pump is installed correctly, always verify
proper rotation before lowering it into the basin. If the pump is rotating in
the wrong direction, turn off the power and reverse any two leads to the pump
(not ground). This reverses the phase sequence and corrects the pump rotation.
For 3-phase pumps, rotation must be counterclockwise when looking from the
bottom of the pump. Label the wires for reconnection after installation.
Guide Rail System
If guide rails are used, refer to the separate instructions supplied with the
unit for proper installation and operation, making sure all gaskets and
components are present. Liberty Pumps Guide Rail System features a self-
aligning mounting bracket. Contact Liberty Pumps for available models, such as
GR22 and GR30.
If guide rails are not used, complete all pump-mounted plumbing at this time,
being sure all gaskets and components are present.
Pump
Record information from pump nameplate onto cover of these instructions.
Complete a visual inspection before lowering into basin.
Discharge
A check valve is required to prevent the backflow of liquid after each pumping
cycle. A gate valve should follow the check valve to allow periodic cleaning
of the check valve or removal of the pump. The remainder of the discharge line
should be as short as possible with a minimum number of turns to minimize
friction head loss. Do not reduce the discharge to below that which is
provided
on the pump. Larger pipe sizes may be required to eliminate friction head loss
over long runs. Contact Liberty Pumps or other qualified person if questions
arise regarding proper pipe size and flow rates.
Pressure Sewer Applications
A redundant check valve assembly consisting of a curb stop and check valve must be installed between the pump discharge and the street main, as close to the public right-of-way as possible, on all pressure (force main) sewer installations to protect from system pressures. The curb stop valve is necessary to isolate the site from the pressure sewer while the check valve provides redundant protection against potentially detrimental backflow. All valves and fittings should be rated for at least 200 PSI service. See Liberty Pumps line of CSV-Series Curb Stop/Swing Check Valve Assemblies and CK-Series Connection Kit.
Vent
The basin must be completely sealed and properly vented per local health and plumbing code requirements. The system is designed to be vented through the inlet to an existing building vent stack. In order to accomplish this, there must be no traps between the system inlet and the nearest building vent stack connection. If this is not possible or desirable per the application, a vent flange or grommet can be installed in a hole cut into the cover.
Piggyback Switch Operation
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
Single-phase 208/230V pumps shall only be operated without the float switch by
using the circuit breaker or panel disconnect.
IMPORTANT: Verify breaker is turned off before plugging in the switch.
Plug the piggyback switch into the receptacle. The receptacle must be wired to
an appropriately sized breaker. Plug the pump into the piggyback receptacle.
Install the cable clamp (if supplied) for strain relief.
Automatic Pump Direct Wiring
RISK OF SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH
In 208/230V installations, one side of the line going to the pump is always
“hot”, whether the float switch is on or off. To avoid hazards, install a
double pole disconnect near the pump installation.
If a 1-phase pump (excluding model LEH202) will be wired directly into a
control device or junction box, and it is necessary to remove the plug, a
certified electrician shall complete the wiring in accordance with the
National Electric Code and applicable local codes. A disconnecting means for
the pump shall be located in sight from the pump/basin location. See Figure 2
for direct wire installation of 1-phase, automatic pumps.
Applications
A securable basin cover is required for safety and to prevent foreign objects from entering the basin.
Simplex (One Pump) Systems
- Place pump in basin making certain the mounting interface (i.e., guide rail, torque stop) is engaged correctly. Float switch must have adequate clearance to side wall of basin and free, unobstructed movement throughout its complete travel and must not contact the pump, piping, or other objects.
- If an optional control device or float is used, follow the separate manufacturer’s instructions for mounting. Minimum pump turn OFF level must not be set below Table 1 values. Connect the discharge pipe to the pump’s threaded discharge.
- Do not reduce the discharge to below that which is provided on the pump. Sewage pumps should not be smaller than 2″. Larger pipe sizes may be required in some applications to reduce friction head loss over long runs. Contact Liberty Pumps or other qualified person if there are questions regarding proper pipe size and flow rates.
- Mount and seal the basin cover.
- Install the remaining discharge line.
- Install a union just above the cover to facilitate pump removal when necessary.
- Install a check valve after the union to prevent backflow after each pumping cycle.
- Install a gate valve after the check valve to allow periodic cleaning of the check valve and removal of the pump.
- The remainder of the discharge line should be as short as possible with a minimum number of turns to minimize friction head loss. Larger pipe sizes may be required to eliminate friction head loss over long runs.
- Vent basin in accordance with applicable plumbing codes.
Duplex (Two Pump) Systems
- Place both pumps in basin, making certain the mounting interface (i.e., guide rail, torque stop) is engaged correctly.
- The duplex control used will include 3 or 4 floats that will either be tethered to one of the discharge pipes or to an independent rod or bracket. Follow the duplex control manufacturer’s instructions provided with the device. Each float switch must have adequate clearance to side wall of basin and free, unobstructed movement throughout its complete travel and must not contact the pump, piping, or other objects. Minimum pump turn OFF level must not be set below Table 1 values.
- Connect an individual discharge pipe to each pump. Do not reduce the discharge to below that which is provided on the pump. Sewage pumps should not be smaller than 2″. Larger pipe sizes may be required in some applications to reduce friction head loss over long runs. Contact Liberty Pumps or other qualified person if there are questions regarding proper pipe size and flow rates.
- A check valve on each discharge line, prior to tying into one common line, is necessary to prevent the recycling of fluid from one pump to the other. Depending on the basin height, the check valves may either be inside or outside the basin. To install inside basin, install check valve on each discharge pipe now. To install outside basin, install in Step 7.
- Mount and seal the basin cover.
- Install unions or flexible connectors just above the cover on each discharge to facilitate pump removal when necessary.
- Install check valves on each discharge after the union and prior to the gate valve to prevent backflow.
- Install a gate valve after the check valve to allow for periodic cleaning of the check valve and removal of pumps.
- The remainder of the discharge line should be as short as possible with a minimum number of turns to minimize friction head loss. Larger pipe sizes may be required to eliminate friction head loss over long runs.
- Vent basin in accordance with applicable plumbing codes.
Operation
RISK OF SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH
Energizing the control panel or breaker for the first time is potentially dangerous. Licensed electrical personnel should be present when the panel or breaker is energized for the first time. If faults caused by damage or poor installation practices have not been detected, serious damage, injury or death can result when power is applied.
Starting System
- Verify all plumbing components are installed correctly and functional. Verify all valves are open and ready for pump use.
- Double check all wire connections. Re-tighten all factory and field connections.
- Ensure pump has no obstructions.
- With all electrical and mechanical connections complete and secure, turn on power to pump and control panel, if applicable.
- Verify operation of the pump, floats, and alarm circuits.
- Run several cycles of water through the system to verify correct control operation for the installation.
Be certain to complete adequate testing, especially on systems with multiple pumps or custom control configurations.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
- Accidental contact with electrically live parts, items, fluid, or water can cause serious injury or death.
- Always disconnect pump(s) from power source(s) before handling or making any adjustments to either the pump(s), the pump system, or the control panel.
- RISK OF SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH
- Wear adequate Personal Protective Equipment when working on pumps or piping that have been exposed to wastewater. Sump and sewage pumps often handle materials that can transmit illness or disease upon contact with skin and other tissues.
- Do not enter a pump basin after it has been used. Sewage and effluent can emit several gases that are poisonous.
- Verify correct 3-phase pump rotation before retuning to service.
Maintenance
Check pump frequently for debris and/or build up that may interfere with pump
or float switch operation. As the motor is oil-filled, no lubrication or other
maintenance is required.
In the event the pump becomes clogged, the inlet screen can be removed to gain
access to the pump impeller. Once the obstruction is removed, the anti-airlock
hole should be cleaned.
To keep the pump/pump system operating smoothly, perform the following routine
checks:
Monthly
- Pumps that are idle for more than a month in a dry basin should have impellers manually operated through the breaker panel monthly to lubricate the seals. For automatic models, turn off the breaker, unplug the piggyback switch, and plug the pump directly into the wall socket. Turn the breaker on for 30 seconds, then turn the breaker off. Plug the piggyback switch back in. Refer to Figure 1 on page 7. Limit the lubrication run time to less than one minute per pump.
- Pumps that are idle in a wet basin must be removed—do not store pump in wet basin.
Quarterly
- Check pumps for corrosion and wear.
- Check for free and unobstructed float switch operation and float switch condition.
- Inspect for proper check valve operation.
- For multiple pumps, check for balanced operating times. Uneven times indicate a defective unit, float switch or control.
- Inspect the control panel for any presence of moisture in enclosure, loose connections, and general component condition.
Annually
- Inspect and clean basin. Replace any defective components.
Troubleshooting
Refer to Table 2 for troubleshooting guidance.
No repair work shall be carried out during the warranty period without prior
factory approval. To do so may void the warranty.
Liberty Pumps, Inc. assumes no responsibility for damage or injury due to
disassembly in the field. Disassembly, other than an authorized repair
facility approved by Liberty Pumps or its authorized service centers,
automatically voids warranty.
Problem | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
---|
__
__
__
__
__
__
__
Pump does not start.
| Damaged power or control cord.| Replace as needed.
Control panel selector switch in OFF position.| Set selector switch to Hand or
Auto position.
Blown control circuit transformer fuse.| Replace fuse.
Tripped circuit breaker, tripped GFCI, blown fuse, or other interruption of
power.| Reset tripped circuit breaker, reset GFCI, replace blown fuse with
properly sized fuse, check that the unit is securely plugged in, investigate
power interruption.
Improper voltage.| Have an electrician check all wiring for proper connections
and adequate voltage and capacity.
Float switch unable to move to pump ON position due to interference in basin
or other obstruction.| Position pump or float switch so that it has adequate
clearance for free movement.
Insufficient liquid level.| Verify liquid level is allowed to rise enough to
activate float switch(es).
Defective float switch.| Replace float switch.
Obstructed impeller or volute.| Remove obstruction.
Loose wiring connections.| Check and tighten all connections.
__
__
__
__
Pump runs, but does not turn off.
| Pump is airlocked.| Turn pump off and let set for several minutes, then
restart.
Control panel selector switch in Hand position.| Set selector switch to Auto
position.
Float switch unable to move to pump OFF position due to interference with the
side of basin or other obstruction.| Position pump or float switch(es) so that
it has adequate clearance for free movement.
Control panel failure.| Check control panel.
Defective float switch.| Replace float switch.
Missing or faulty curb stop/swing check valve allowing system pressure to feed
back through discharge piping.| Verify presence of a curb stop check valve or
replace curb stop/swing check valve assembly.
Rupture or failure of discharge plumbing either inside or outside of the
basin.| Missing or faulty curb stop/swing check valve allowing system pressure
to feed back through discharge piping.| __
Verify presence of a curb stop check valve or replace curb stop/swing check valve assembly.
Problem | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
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Pump runs or hums, but does not pump.
| Discharge line blocked or restricted.| Check discharge line for foreign
material, including ice if discharge line passes through or into cold areas.
Check valve is stuck closed or installed backward.| Remove check valve(s) and
examine for freedom of operation and proper installation.
Gate or ball valve is closed.| Open gate or ball valve.
Total head is beyond pump’s capability.| Route piping to a lower level. If not
possible, a larger pump may be required. Consult Liberty Pumps.
Obstructed impeller or volute.| Remove obstruction.
Pump is airlocked.| Turn pump off and let set for several minutes, then
restart.
Add baffle to reduce trapped air bubbles.
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Pump cycles too frequently.
| Improper float switch setting.| Adjust float switch setting.
Check valve not installed, stuck open, or leaking.| Install check valve(s);
remove check valve and examine for freedom of operation and proper
installation.
Missing or faulty curb stop/swing check valve allowing system pressure to feed
back through discharge piping.| Verify presence of a curb stop check valve or
replace curb stop/swing check valve assembly.
High level alarm triggering.| Missing or faulty curb stop/swing check valve
allowing system pressure to feed back through discharge piping.| Verify
presence of a curb stop check valve or replace curb stop/swing check valve
assembly.
Pump runs periodically when fixtures are not in use.| Check valve not
installed, stuck open, or leaking.| Install check valve(s); remove check valve
and examine for freedom of operation and proper installation.
Fixtures are leaking.| Repair fixtures as required to eliminate leakage.
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Pump does not deliver proper capacity.
| Discharge valve(s) partially closed or clogged.| Check the discharge line
for foreign material, including ice if the discharge line passes through or
into cold areas.
Check valve partially clogged.| Raise liquid level up and down to clear;
remove check valve to remove obstruction.
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Incorrect motor rotation.
| 1-phase: contact factory.
3-phase: Correct 3-phase pump rotation direction. Refer to section 3-Phase Pump Rotation Verification.
Total head is beyond pump’s capability.| Route discharge piping to a lower
level. If not possible, a larger pump may be required. Consult Liberty Pumps.
Low liquid level.| Check liquid level.
Obstruction in pump or piping.| Remove obstruction.
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Pump operates noisily.
| Piping attachments to building are too rigid.| Replace a portion of the
discharge line with rubber hose or connector.
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Incorrect motor rotation.
| 1-phase: contact factory.
3-phase: Correct 3-phase pump rotation direction. Refer to section 3-Phase Pump Rotation Verification.
Foreign objects in the impeller cavity.| Clean the impeller cavity.
Broken impeller.| Consult Liberty Pumps for information regarding impeller
replacement.
Problem| Possible Cause| Corrective Action
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Repeated tripping.
| Circuit protection underrated.| Check rating and replace with proper size.
Other appliance on same circuit.| Pump requires separate circuit.
Pump is connected to an extension cord or wiring is inadequate or
compromised.| Have an electrician check for proper wiring.
Improper voltage.| Have an electrician check all wiring for proper connections
and adequate voltage and capacity.
Obstruction in pump.| Remove obstruction.
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Incorrect motor rotation.
| 1-phase: contact factory.
3-phase: Correct 3-phase pump rotation direction. Refer to section 3-Phase Pump Rotation Verification.
Foreign matter buildup.| Clean motor housing.
Warranty
Liberty Pumps Wholesale Products Limited Warranty
Liberty Pumps, Inc. warrants that Liberty Pumps wholesale products are free
from all factory defects in material and workmanship for a period of three (3)
years from the date of purchase (excluding batteries and “Commercial Series”
models). The date of purchase shall be determined by a dated sales receipt
noting the model and serial number of the pump. The dated sales receipt must
accompany the returned pump if the date of return is more than three years
from the date of manufacture noted on the pump nameplate.
The manufacturer’s sole obligation under this Warranty shall be limited to the
repair or replacement of any parts found by the manufacturer to be defective,
provided the part or assembly is returned freight prepaid to the manufacturer
or its authorized service center, and provided that none of the following
warranty-voiding characteristics are evident:
The manufacturer shall not be liable under this Warranty if the product has
not been properly installed, operated, or maintained per manufacturer
instructions; if it has been disassembled, modified, abused, or tampered with;
if the electrical cord has been cut, damaged, or spliced; if the pump
discharge has been reduced in size; if the pump has been used in water
temperatures above the advertised rating; if the pump has been used in water
containing sand, lime, cement, gravel, or other abrasives; if the product has
been used to pump chemicals, grease, or hydrocarbons; if a non-submersible
motor has been subjected to moisture; or if the label bearing the model and
serial number has been removed.
Liberty Pumps, Inc. shall not be liable for any loss, damage, or expenses
resulting from installation or use of its products, or for indirect,
incidental, and consequential damages, including costs of removal,
reinstallation or transportation.
There is no other express warranty. All implied warranties, including those of
merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, are limited to three
years from the date of purchase. This Warranty contains the exclusive remedy
of the purchaser, and, where permitted, liability for consequential or
incidental damages under any and all warranties are excluded.
Liberty Pumps, Inc. warrants StormCell® batteries for 1 year from date of purchase, and warrants that pumps of its Commercial Series are free from all factory defects in material and workmanship for a period of 18 months from the date of installation or 24 months from the date of manufacture, whichever occurs first, and provided that such products are used in compliance with their intended applications as set forth in the technical specifications and manuals.