What is the recommended lift for an apparatus fire pump of 1500 gpm or less when drafting?

The recommended lift for an apparatus fire pump of 1500 gpm or less when drafting is 10 feet. This recommendation is based on the operational efficiency and performance capabilities of standard fire pumps in this flow range.

When drafting water from a static source, the fire pump is required to create a specific vacuum to draw water up from the source and into the pump. A lift distance of 10 feet is considered optimal because it balances effective water supply without risking cavitation or performance loss. At greater lifts, particularly beyond this distance, the fire pump may struggle to maintain adequate flow rates, leading to reduced efficiency and potential operational issues.

Understanding these parameters is crucial for fire apparatus operators to ensure effective water supply during firefighting operations, especially when utilizing drafting techniques.