QuestionI have a Sta-Rite Model HMSF-1FL pump which pulls water out of my lake for my irrigation system. As I went out to prime the pump this season, I saw my input line was totally shattered at a point. It is a single pipe to the lake, but has some complicated looking stuff near the pump tank. A few inches from the pump housing is a white threaded coupling/fitting which looks like it could be unscrewed but is very firm. A few inches beyond that is simalar, but larger grey fitting and pipe of some sort. It also appears to be screwed on but I'm not sure. I don't know it's function but that is where the main crack occured. White PVC pipe continues past this point a few inches to an elbow which connects to another elbow then about 10 feet to the intake screen in the lake.
It looks like I could unscrew the first joint and replace all the stuff in the middle. I don't want to damage anything further: pump tank etc. so I haven't tried to force anything. I'm not sure what the large gray fitting is. What is it and is it necessary? Unfortunately it appears the PVC is cracked all the way into the first elbow. It doesn't seem possible to remove just the pipe in the elbow. I'm not a PVC expert. I've put stuff together but never removed old stuff. How do I get all this replaced/removed? Should I just run a new line to the lake? If so, can I disconnect the pump tank easily from the PVC intake line without damaging the tank? Wish I had a drawing.
I allegedly had the system winterized, but the break seems recent and is essentially cracke completely around the pipe. It is hanging by a shard. It doesn't seem like a freeze crack. Maybe it was vandalized. Any thoughts about cause? The system is 6 years old. I do most work myself because installation contractor was horrible: we've had lots of problems. (For example He laid indoor grade wire to the outside pump! Niiiice! I had to replace all 300 feet.) Prety much on my own here as most companies around here scratch their heads when dealing with lake fed systems. I can give lots of horror stories if you have a lot of time and plenty of beer! Thanks for the help.
AnswerI dont know for sure, but the device you are describing could be a check valve, which helps maintain prime in the pump. It is probably glued in, so it would have to be replaced with the new line to the lake. There is probably a foot valve at the end of the suction line as well, so it needs to be re-installed as well. Instead of having irrigation or landscapers help you, get a pump or well service person if you need help.
