When using sump pumps, what must be installed to prevent large particles from reaching the pump impeller?

When using sump pumps, what must be installed to prevent large particles from reaching the pump impeller?

• A. Filters
• B. Intake screens
• C. Valves
• D. Backflow preventers

Answer: (B)

Using sump pumps effectively requires preventing large particles from damaging the pump impeller. The correct approach involves installing intake screens. These screens act as a barrier that allows water to enter the pump while capturing and blocking debris and solid materials that could potentially harm the impeller. This is crucial for maintaining the pump's efficiency and longevity, as any blockage or damage to the impeller can lead to operational failures and increased maintenance costs. Filters might seem like a viable option; however, they are typically used for finer particles and may become clogged easily in a sump pump application, leading to a decrease in performance. Valves and backflow preventers serve specific purposes related to flow regulation and preventing reverse flow of water but do not serve to filter out larger particulates that could damage the pump. Thus, intake screens are the most appropriate choice for protecting the pump impeller from larger particles.

Using sump pumps effectively requires preventing large particles from damaging the pump impeller. The correct approach involves installing intake screens. These screens act as a barrier that allows water to enter the pump while capturing and blocking debris and solid materials that could potentially harm the impeller. This is crucial for maintaining the pump's efficiency and longevity, as any blockage or damage to the impeller can lead to operational failures and increased maintenance costs.

Filters might seem like a viable option; however, they are typically used for finer particles and may become clogged easily in a sump pump application, leading to a decrease in performance. Valves and backflow preventers serve specific purposes related to flow regulation and preventing reverse flow of water but do not serve to filter out larger particulates that could damage the pump. Thus, intake screens are the most appropriate choice for protecting the pump impeller from larger particles.