Starting Up And Shutting Down Pumps

Proper starting and shutting down of pumps will ensure that the pump will operate optimally for a long time.

It is very important that the delivery valve must be closed before the pump is started or shut down. If the delivery valve is open during start-up, the pump will need more energy to start, resulting in a bigger electricity bill. If the pump is shut down with an open valve, water hammer can occur, which can damage the internal parts of the pump. Note that some pump installations are equipped with automated hydraulic valves. These valves open and close automatically when the pump is switched on and off.

Starting up the Pump

• Perform the pre-start-up inspection.
• Check that the pump is properly primed
• Close the delivery valve.
• Start the pump by pushing the start button and remain at the panel until the pump runs smoothly (10-20 seconds). If any unusual noise or vibration occurs, immediately press the stop button.
• If the pump runs normally, open the delivery valve slowly.

Click here to download a handout that explains how to prime a pump.

After a pump is started in the morning, it must be monitored during the day to ensure that it is running smoothly. Always check the perimeter and working characteristics of the pump as described in previous sections. Also pay attention to vibration, noise, leaks, burst pipes, smoke, sparks, fire, etc. Switch off the pump immediately if any of this should occur and report it to the supervisor or manager.

Shutting Down

• Close the delivery valve slowly, preventing water hammer.
• As soon as the valve is closed, switch off the pump.

Note that just before shutting down the pump is an ideal time to take pressure readings on the filter bank and to back-flush the filters.

Most pump installations are equipped with the following gauges:

The amp meter is located on the electrical panel and measures the current that is used.

The volt meter is located on the electrical panel and gives a reading of the voltage, e.g. 400V.

The pressure gauge is located on the delivery pipe and gives a reading of the pressure in kPa or Bar.

The flow meter is installed on the delivery pipe and measures the flow in cubic meters (m3). Mechanical flow meters have a dial gauge on the meter, while electronic flow meters have a digital readout in a special panel.

Although all pump stations will not necessarily have volt and flow meters, it should at least be equipped with an amp meter and pressure gauge.

The normal readings, or norms, differ from pump to pump. The supervisor or manager should give the norms for amps, volts, pressure and flow. Actual readings are compared with the norms to establish whether the pump and motor are running optimally, and to assist with determining the pump and motor characteristics.