Can I install a TW pump on my own?
Yes, as long as you have plumbing and electrical skills. It’s just like a water heater, just plumb it, wire it, and turn it on. Like a water heater, all local building, electrical, and
plumbing codes need to be followed.
Is my TW pump tested?
Yes. Prior to leaving the factory, the controller is programmed, and the pump is tested, which ensures no water leaks.
For my bypass, do I really need a check valve?
No, but this will mean the bypass ball valve will need to be shut. In the event of a power outage, somebody will need to open this ball valve, and close it when the power
comes back on.
What is the difference between a cheap pump from the local hardware store, and a TW variable speed system?
A TW variable speed pump is actually a 3-phase pump. The controller converts your homes single phase power into 3-phase power, which gives the pump the ability to vary its
speed. Because the speed is variable, at low flows the pump turns slowly and uses very little power, thus saving money, and energy.
Contrast this with a constant speed pump that always operates at the same speed. It’s either on or off, no matter what the water demand is, so the energy efficiency is not
as good.
How do I set the expansion tank pressure?
The expansion tank will be factory set 10psi lower than the pump setting, For instance, if the pump is set at 65 PSI, the tank air pressure would be 55 PSI. An air gauge and
small bicycle air pump are all that’s needed to adjust the air pressure.
Can I set the expansion tank pressure while the pump’s running?
No, the pump needs to be turned off, and the water pressure needs to be lowered to ZERO.
What could go wrong with my system?
Like any pump system, the rubber bladder in the expansion tank could fail, which takes the “buffer” out of the system. The tell tale sign is the pump will be turning on and off
rapidly, especially at low flows. The system will have to be turned off, and the expansion tank replaced.
What is the importance of the 40psi incoming pressure question?
A booster pump will only increase (raise, boost) the home’s existing pressure. TW pumps will boost the pressure 40-50psi. So, if a home has extremely low pressure, say 20psi,
and the booster adds 40psi, the most pressure available at high flows will be 60psi.
What’s the best pressure to set my pump?
Unless ordered differently, your TW Pump will be factory set at 65 PSI. (see next question).
Can I change the pump pressure setting after it’s installed?
Yes, but only after calling the factory for an access code and instructions. The controller contains numerous parameters (voltage, pump Hz, etc) that shouldn’t be changed, so
care has to be taken when accessing the controller parameters.
Why is the pressure lower on my second floor?
Hydraulics. For every 10 feet of elevation, water will lose 4.3 pounds of pressure. If the elevation difference between the pump in the basement and the second floor shower
is 20ft, you’ll see 8.6psi of pressure drop.
What do you mean “the pump can’t make water”?
The TW pump will only raise the pressure of the water. In some homes, there isn’t enough water volume to fulfill the demand. For instance, if your well only supplies 8 gallons
a minute, and you’re trying to use 12 gallons a minute, you’ll actually run out of water. In this situation, a water storage tank will be needed.
Why is galvanized pipe important?
Some older homes have galvanized pipe. It looks good on the outside, but tend s to have a lot of rust and calcification on the inside. A 1” pipe may only have a ½” waterway.
In this instance, a storage tank may be needed.
What happens to the pump if the water runs out?
A Variable Speed TW pump has a low water cut-off, which will keep the pump from burning out. If this happens, the power to the pump will need to be turned off, and then
powered back up to reset the controller. The low water issue will need to be addressed IMMEDIATELY.
Why do you need to know about water softeners?
The pressure will drop through a water softener. Also, these softeners have a rated capacity, so we just can’t pump more water through a softener than designed.
What’s a dual purpose pump?
Used typically for plumbing and irrigation, or plumbing and fire protection. The benefit is that one pump supplies both uses, and the pump will need to be sized for both uses.
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| TW Pumps Frequently Asked Questions |
TOWLE WHITNEY - RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL BOOSTER PUMP SYSTEMS
