For drafting purposes, lift is measured from what point?

For drafting purposes, lift is measured from the surface of the water to the pump intake. This measurement is crucial for understanding how much effort is required for a pump to draw water from a source, such as a tank, river, or pool. When calculating lift, it is essential to gauge the vertical distance that the pump has to pull water, which directly affects the pump's ability to operate efficiently.

Knowing that lift is specifically defined in relation to the water surface level provides valuable insight for drivers/operators when determining the adequacy of their equipment to effectively draft water. If the lift is too great, it may exceed the pump's capabilities, leading to cavitation or inadequate water supply. This knowledge helps ensure successful and safe operations during firefighting and water supply tasks.