Answers To The Most Commonly Asked Pump Cover Questions

When it comes to protecting pumps, a pump cover or pump enclosure is critical. Residential, commercial, and industrial pumps must be covered, not only to protect pumps from environmental damage, vandalism, and exposure to harsh conditions but also to extend their life.

If you’re considering a cover for your pump, we’re here to help. Here are answers to the five most commonly asked questions about pump covers.

How do I run the supply and return piping from the pump cover?

When designing and installing supply and return piping for a pump that is enclosed, it's essential to plan the piping penetrations carefully. These penetrations allow the fluid (typically water, but potentially other fluids) to flow to and from the pump inside the enclosure while maintaining the integrity of the enclosure itself. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to properly run your supply and return piping from a pump cover:

1. Plan Piping Penetrations Early

• Piping Locations: Before installation, it’s crucial to decide where the supply and return lines will penetrate the enclosure. These locations should align with the pump’s inlet and outlet connections, as well as any other equipment that may require fluid input or output. The goal is to ensure smooth flow without unnecessary bends or restrictions in the piping.

• Clearance: Ensure there is enough space around the penetration for any necessary fittings, valves, or seals, and that the piping will not be obstructed by other internal components of the enclosure.

2. Drilling Piping Penetrations On-Site

• On-Site Drilling: It is generally recommended to drill the holes for the piping penetrations at the project site. This approach has several advantages:

  • Customization: It allows the contractor to drill the holes exactly where they are needed based on the layout and specific requirements of the installation. This ensures precise alignment with the pump and piping.

  • Flexibility: On-site drilling accounts for any last-minute adjustments or changes to the piping configuration.

• Tools Needed: Use appropriate drilling tools for the material of the enclosure (e.g., stainless-steel, or aluminum). A hole saw or drill bit designed for metal is typically used.

3. Sealing Around the Piping

• Expanding Foam or Gasket Material: Once the penetrations are made, seal the gaps around the piping where it intersects with the enclosure. This helps:

  • Heat Retention: If the system requires thermal management, sealing the gaps will help to retain heat inside the enclosure, which is particularly useful in cold environments or when dealing with fluids that need to be kept at a certain temperature.

  • Prevent Leaks: A proper seal will prevent air, moisture, or contaminants from entering the enclosure, which is crucial for maintaining equipment efficiency and protecting internal components from environmental damage.

  • Use Expanding Foam: Expanding foam is a good option for sealing these gaps. It expands to fill the space around the piping and forms a solid, insulating barrier. Be sure to use a fire-resistant foam if the pump enclosure is for fire protection or industrial applications.

  • Rubber Gaskets: For a cleaner and more controlled seal, gasket material or rubber seals can be used around the pipe penetrations, ensuring a tight, secure seal that prevents leaks or air gaps.

4. Additional Considerations for Piping Installations

• Insulation: If the system needs to retain heat or prevent condensation, consider wrapping the piping in insulation before feeding it through the penetrations. This is particularly important in systems where temperature control is critical.

• Drainage and Overflow: If the pump or system might experience leaks or overflow, ensure the piping design allows for proper drainage. This could include integrating a drain flap in an access panel.

• Vibration Dampening: Pumps can create vibrations, which can affect the integrity of the piping over time. Consider using vibration-dampening materials or brackets to support the piping near the penetration point and prevent wear or damage to both the piping and the enclosure.

Summary of Key Steps:

1. Drill the holes for the supply and return piping penetrations on-site, aligning them with the pump’s connections.

2. Seal the gaps around the piping using expanding foam or gaskets to retain heat and prevent environmental damage.

3. Ensure the installation accounts for insulation, vibration dampening, and drainage needs.

By following these guidelines, you’ll ensure that the piping is securely integrated into the pump enclosure while maintaining its effectiveness and durability over time.

What's the best way to remove heat from my pump cover?

Pumps naturally produce heat, and depending on what part of the country the project is located, it can get very hot inside the enclosure. It is important to remove heat so it doesn't damage other equipment like electronic control panels. We recommend adding at least one louver and fan on opposite sides of the enclosure.

The idea is to pull air from the outside across the pumps and equipment and out of the other end of your enclosure. This causes a cooling effect and keeps your equipment from overheating.

When it comes to pump covers, size does matter. The size of your enclosure and your pump will determine the number of louvers needed. Safe-T-Cover can work with you determine the louver and fan number and sizes.

Can I get access for routine maintenance and replacing equipment?

Yes, when designing an enclosure, ensuring access for routine maintenance and equipment replacement is crucial for both functionality and safety. Here are some key design considerations to keep in mind:

1. Removable or Hinged Access Panels:
   For equipment that requires regular inspection or maintenance, like fire pumps and booster pumps, removable or hinged access panels are a great solution. These panels should be strategically placed to allow technicians to perform tasks without needing to disassemble the entire enclosure. Placing them on the front or sides of the enclosure can offer the most convenient access.

2. Wide and Tall Doorways for Larger Equipment:
   If your enclosure contains large equipment make sure the doorways are sufficiently wide and tall to accommodate the equipment. Consider the dimensions of the equipment you're likely to replace and the space needed to maneuver it in and out. This may mean designing doors that are larger than standard size and ensuring there’s adequate clearance for equipment removal or replacement. Safe-T-Cover enclosure roof panels are easily removed if the equipment needs to be lifted from the pump cover.

3. Lockable Doors and Panels:
   Security is essential. All access points should be lockable to prevent unauthorized access. This ensures that only qualified personnel can perform maintenance or replacement tasks, helping to maintain the safety and security of the equipment inside the enclosure.

4. Consider Future Maintenance Needs:
   When designing the enclosure, plan for long-term maintenance needs, including the possibility of replacing aging or malfunctioning equipment. The design should prioritize easy access, but also keep in mind potential changes in the equipment over time (e.g., different models or larger units requiring more space).

By addressing these factors, you can ensure that the enclosure is not only functional for routine maintenance but also secure and practical for long-term equipment management.

What if I need to heat my pump enclosure?

If your pump does not run continuously and you're in a cold climate, or have cold winters, you'll need a heater.

Pumps may also push fluids that are more viscous than others. Heating the interior of your enclosure helps keep fluids warm, which helps increase the efficiency of the pump.

There are many options regarding the specific type of heaters available. They include:

• Explosion proof
• Wall mounted
• Slab mounted
• The size of your enclosure will determine things like:
• Insulation thickness
• Watts and voltage
• Heater placement

For most cases, mounting the heater on the wall makes good sense for pump applications. It provides the necessary heat and will stay out of the way of equipment.

Can pump covers be easily mounted to a skid?

Yes, pump enclosures can indeed be easily mounted to a skid, and it’s a common practice, especially for applications where portability, ease of installation, and structural integrity are important. When planning to mount an enclosure to a skid, several considerations ensure that the integration is smooth and functional. Here are the key factors to keep in mind:

1. Use of Corrosion-Resistant Materials

• Material Selection: Aluminum or other corrosion-resistant materials (such as stainless steel) are ideal choices for both the enclosure and skid. These materials are particularly important in outdoor or harsh environments where exposure to water, chemicals, or moisture is common.

• Coatings: In addition to material choice, coatings like kynar, powder coating, galvanization can be applied to prevent corrosion, increasing the lifespan of both the enclosure and the skid.

2. Dimensions of the Skid and Enclosure

• Detailed Dimensions: The precise dimensions of the skid (including length, width, and height) is essential. This ensures that the enclosure is designed to fit securely on the skid without any issues during installation or operation. It also ensures that any necessary mounting holes or brackets can be aligned properly.

• Clearances: Consider the clearance needed inside the enclosure for pump maintenance,

Want To Know More?

If you're looking for more detailed information or guidance regarding custom pump enclosures, Safe-T-is a great resource. Here’s a summary of what you can do next to explore your options and ensure you get the right custom cover for your equipment:

1. Contact Safe-T-Cover for Expert Advice

• Speak with an Expert: The team at Safe-T-Cover can provide tailored advice based on your specific needs. Whether you’re looking for design advice, material recommendations, or want to discuss installation requirements, their pump enclosure experts are ready to help you navigate through the options.

• Phone Support: If you prefer direct conversation, you can reach them at 800-245-6333. Their team can walk you through the process and help clarify any questions you have.

2. Explore the Guide on Enclosure Design

• Safe-T-Cover offers a comprehensive guide titled “How to Design and Buy a Pump Enclosure”. This checklist will help you understand the important factors to consider when designing your pump cover, including material selection, dimensions, clearance, mounting options, and more. It’s an excellent resource if you want to ensure every step is covered in the process of ordering a custom cover.

3. Comprehensive Custom Cover Packages

• Exclusive Enclosure Packages: Safe-T-Cover’s custom enclosures are sold as part of a complete package, meaning they provide not just the cover itself, but also all the necessary components for installation and integration. Their focus on exclusivity ensures you get a high-quality, customized solution that meets all of your equipment’s protection and operational needs.

4. Customized Solutions for Your Pump and Equipment

• Tailored Design: Custom covers can be designed to meet the specific requirements of your pump or equipment, ensuring the best possible protection against environmental conditions, wear, and tear. The experts at Safe-T-Cover can help you customize the cover’s size, material, access features, ventilation, and security options, all in line with your operational goals.

By reaching out to Safe-T-Cover and using their resources, you can ensure you make an informed decision on your pump enclosure and get a solution that will provide long-term protection for your equipment. Whether you need guidance on design, materials, or installation, their team is ready to assist you.