When should a pump operator prime the pump?

Priming the pump is a crucial step when drawing water from a static source, such as a pond, lake, or fire hydrant. This process involves removing air from the pump and causing the pump to generate the necessary suction to draw water successfully.

When the pump operator initiates this action, it is essential for ensuring that the pump can efficiently move water. Static sources typically do not have pressurized water, so priming is required to create a vacuum that allows the water to enter the pump. This is particularly significant because a pump that is not primed will not be able to function effectively and can lead to pump damage or non-operational situations during critical firefighting efforts.

In scenarios such as using a water tank or discharging water, priming is typically not necessary, as the water supply is either pressurized or readily available in the tank. Similarly, operating on live lines involves drawing water from a system that is already pressurized, which negates the need for priming. Thus, the correct understanding of when to prime the pump centers around the necessity of creating suction from a static source.