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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Pumps In General
    • Do I need to drill the 3/16" (5 mm) vent hole?

      If a check valve is used, we recommend drilling a vent hole in the discharge pipe. This hole is located in the basin between the pump and check valve, usually a few inches above the pump “on” level but below the pit cover. The vent hole will prevent air-locking from occurring.

    • How long is your warranty period?

      For submersible pumps, depending on the specific model, warranty could be either two years from the date of purchase (builder series), three years from the date of purchase (professional series), or five years from the date of purchase (premium series). Proof of purchase is required. Abuse or misapplication can void this warranty. Check with individual products for specific warranty information.

    • What is the estimated service life of the pump?

      Under normal service conditions, we feel that the unit is designed for a 7-10 year service life. But during this period, the pump may require periodic servicing.

    • Do I need a check valve?

      In a sewage system a check valve is required to prevent the sewage from draining back to the basin. They are usually recommended for all other submersible pump systems, but not required.

    • My automatic pump stops and starts constantly, how can I make the pump run longer?

      This is called short cycling. It is a function of the basin diameter and the “on/off” pumping range. Since the basin is in the ground it is unlikely that it can be enlarged. If you have an automatic unit which has a self contained float switch the “on/off” pumping range cannot be adjusted. But with a nonautomatic unit controlled with a pump switch you can have flexibility in the pumping range adjustment. Short-cycling can decrease the service life of a switch assembly. If this occurs, an automatic unit can be converted by using a long-cycle kit (P/N 10-0001) or by using a non-automatic pump with a piggyback variable level switch, which will expand its pumping range and decrease the amount of short-cycling. Installing a check valve in the discharge line will help decrease short cycling.

    • My pump makes a loud noise every time it stops. what's wrong?

      The noise you hear is the check valve closing. This is called “water hammer”, and it is the slamming effect caused when the flow reverses in the discharge pipe after the pump stops. Though it is more annoying than troublesome to your system, you can eliminate this noise by using a different kind of check valve. Check out our Quiet Check Valve.

    • My pump is humming but nothing is being pumped. what's wrong?

      The pump is probably air-locked. Check out our short video about Airlock Prevention!

      If you have a check valve in the system, make sure your 3/16″ (5 mm) vent hole has been drilled and is not clogged. If it has not been drilled, disconnect the pump from your power source, and drill the hole (see questions #1 & 4).

      If the vent hole solution is not the problem, remove the pump from the pit after disconnecting the power and piping, and make sure the impeller rotation is not being restricted.

    • I have to shake the discharge pipe to get it to run. what's wrong?

      If you have an automatic pump with an integral float switch, the switch assembly is malfunctioning, and the switch, switch arm, and case gasket should be replaced. The average switch life is 4-7 years, but it may vary depending on the application. If you have a non-automatic pump with a variable level float, it may be hung up on something or need to be replaced.

  • Qwik Jon® Upflush Systems
    • What is a Qwik Jon® Upflush System?

      A Qwik Jon®  Upflush System is a convenient, affordable way to add a bathroom almost anywhere. Zoeller Pump Company offers two units: The Qwik Jon Choice is a quiet, preassembled pump and macerator system that requires minimal space for installation. Alternatively, the Qwik Jon® Premier is a preassembled 1/2 HP grinder pump system. There’s no need to break concrete so either Qwik Jon can be installed with Zoeller’s rear outlet, elongated toilet in a space anywhere wastewater removal is necessary, but gravity drainage is cost prohibitive.

    • Can I use a lavatory, shower, and washing machine with my Qwik Jon®?

      Either system can handle a single bathroom consisting of a toilet, lavatory, and tub (or shower). A washing machine should not be used with the Qwik Jon®.

      Consider using the Drain Pump system for washing machine applications.

    • Is the Qwik Jon® code approved?

      Both Qwik Jon® Choice and Qwik Jon® Premier have national code approval as listed by IAPMO. Additionally, numerous individual state code approvals have been obtained.

    • Does the Qwik Jon® have any odors?

      Zoeller’s IP68  (Ingress Protection) rating means that gaskets and sealing surfaces must be tightly sealed. So, not only does it do a better job of preventing material from entering the system, it also does a better job of preventing nasty odors from escaping. If properly installed per the detailed instructions provided with the system, there will be no odors.

    • Can I connect a Qwik Jon® to any toilet?

      No, the Qwik Jon® requires a rear spigot toilet for installation. Consider the Qwik Jon® Toilet, an EPA WaterSense and ADA compliant toilet with an elongated bowl, tank and cover.

    • How do I know if the water level in my Qwik Jon® Premier is too high?

      The High Water Qwik Alarm is an audible alarm that alerts you when the tank water level is high. The Qwik Alarm is only for use on the Qwik Jon® Premier where a separate vent is used.

    • The pump comes on, but it does not pump any waste unless I add more water. What's wrong?

      The float switch has not been properly adjusted. Move the switch mounting bracket to a higher position on the discharge pipe. A properly-mounted switch will turn the pump on at approximately 4″ to 4.5″ (102 to 114 mm) and deactivate the pump before 3″ (76 mm).

    • The pump comes on, but it will not shut off. What's wrong?

      The float switch is out of adjustment. Move the switch mounting bracket to a higher position on the discharge pipe. A properly-mounted switch will turn the pump on at approximately 4″ to 4.5″ (102 to 114 mm) and deactivate the pump before 3″ (76 mm).

  • Miscellaneous