The Home Guard
Optima pump can be installed very easily as a standby to an electric sump pump (see sketches).
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Home Guard
Optima must be installed with a listed backflow device suitable for the installation, in accordance with the local
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plumbing code, such as a reduced pressure principle backflow preventer (RP). Alternately, consult the local plumbing and
health codes or the authority having jurisdiction for guidance on cross-connection and backflow protection requirements.
STEP 1: Placement of the Pump in the Pit
Note: If your pit has a cover, it will have to be modified to accommodate the Home Guard
1.1) Inspect the pit for debris and clean as necessary.
1.2) Place the pump in the pit, making certain that the inlet fitting of the pump is at least 6" above the basement floor or top of the
sump pit. Ensure the pump is clamped securely to the primary pump discharge pipe. Mark the location on the discharge pipe.
This pump is to be used as a backup to your primary pump. Make certain that there is no interference between the
IMPORTANT
two pumps, especially between the float systems.
STEP 2: Pump Float Stop Adjustment
2.1) With the Home Guard
the ON level of the existing pump). The pump turns on at a water level of 2" to 3" below the upper float stop, depending on
the incoming water pressure. Calculate the appropriate float stop location based on this distance.
2.2) The OFF level is determined by the buoyancy of the float as well as the incoming water pressure, roughly 6" to 8" below the
ON level. The OFF level must be above the suction screen of the foot valve. Adjusting the lower float stop will not change
the OFF level of the pump. It is recommended to install the lower stop tight to the bottom of the float so that it cannot move
on the float rod.
2.3) Remove the pump from the pit and adjust the float stops as necessary. Tighten all screws. Be sure to tighten the lower
stop properly so that it will not come off. If the lower stop comes off, the float can drop off the float rod, rendering the pump
non-operational and possibly damaging the pump.
2.4) Replace the pump in the pit at the same location on the primary pump discharge pipe as marked earlier (Step 1.2). This will
ensure that the ON and OFF levels are consistent with the calculations.
STEP 3: Installation of the Discharge Piping
3.1) Glue 1½" pipe into the pump discharge connection as shown in the figure on page 5 (reference SK2721).
3.2) Per the Uniform Plumbing Codes and IAPMO PS119, the discharge of the water-powered sump pump should not be
connected to the discharge of the primary sump pump. The discharge piping for water-powered sump pumps must have
an air gap and extend outside of the building, with the end of the pipe between 6 and 24 in. (150 and 610 mm) above the
ground or the flood level of the area receiving the discharge.
3.3) In order for this installation to work properly, a check valve must be installed onto the discharge line. Some local codes
require a union check with ball valve. Check your local code requirements to ensure that the installation complies.
STEP 4: Installation of the Source Water Piping
Home Guard
Optima must be installed with a listed backflow device suitable for the installation, in accordance with the local
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plumbing code, such as a reduced pressure principle backflow preventer (RP). Alternately, consult the local plumbing and
health codes or the authority having jurisdiction for guidance on cross-connection and backflow protection requirements.
4.1) Shut off the municipal water supply and plumb ¾" tubing/piping into the municipal water supply line. This must be branched
INSTALLATION
Sump water is non-potable. To reduce the risk of contamination of the potable water supply, the
Optima pump in the pit, measure the desired float ON position (this should be a few inches above
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Sump water is non-potable. To reduce the risk of contamination of the potable water supply, the
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Optima pump.
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