Tips for Water Pump Safety

Water pumps are powerful pieces of equipment that can cause extensive water damage, personal injury, and even death if they are not correctly operated. Therefore, it is imperative to take necessary safety precautions while operating a pump and look out for safety signs.

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Here are a few safety tips that you need to employ when it comes to using water pumps.

• Always read the owner’s manual for instructions on how to operate the water pump with the highest level of safety.

• While operating your water pump, make sure that all safety guards and shields are in place, so there are no chances of an accident happening.

• Keep the water pump at least three feet away from the walls and any other equipment while it is operating so the pump’s engine or motor can ventilate properly. Ventilation will allow it to stay cool so it does not overheat and turn into a fire hazard.

• Do not run an overheated water pump. If the pump overheats, immediately turn it off, and let it cool down so it can return to the surrounding temperature. Next, vent the pump at the drain plug, if it is applicable, and restart your water pump.

• Never ever use the pump for fluids that it was not designed to handle, or it could lead to accidents. A dangerous and deadly example is of using the water pump for flammable or corrosive fluids like gasoline or acid, or using it for fluids that are too viscous for the pump to transport.

• For engine driven pumps, make sure that you do not overfill the fuel tank; and once you have filled the fuel tank to the desired level, tightly close the cap. Also, avoid spilling fuel while filling or refueling the tank.

• Do not use the water pump in an explosive or flammable environment because the heat from the pump can cause an explosion or fire to break out.

• When it comes to gas pumps, never run the engine indoors because the pump will emit carbon monoxide as it runs. And if you have no other option but to place the engine indoors, then be sure to keep the area well ventilated and seal it, so the gas does not get trapped in other areas of the building.

• Keep the pump out of the reach of children, and keep them away from the pump.

Installing pumps can also be a challenge, so never DIY in that situation because one mistake can prove very costly. Call in an expert who is well-trained and experienced in doing this job to minimize the risk of accidents and health and safety hazards.

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