PerformancePro 1/4 HP Cascade Low RPM Pump 4,320 GPH

• Salt water kits are available at the time of pump purchase and are required for when operating with salt water.

How It Works

When you turn on the electric motor, it uses centrifugal force to generate the velocity of the water. The water then flows into the strainer pot from the water source, filtering out debris. Water flows to the impeller, which turns kinetic energy into pressure. This keeps the high flow water pump working and water flowing out of the discharge port, creating a continuous flow for your water feature.

Self-Priming Pump

PerformancePro ArtesianPro is a true self-priming high flow pond pump. Made to work at different heights up to 9 feet above the water and different lengths horizontally. Operating at maximum suction lift height may negatively affect the pump's overall performance.

Turn on the high flow pump and wait for 3 minutes. If water doesn't enter the priming pot, try using a rubber flap swing check valve. Put the valve close to your water source to keep the pressure steady and make the flow start faster. The best location can even be underwater when possible, as this can provide an air-tight fit even without PVC adhesive.

Some swing check valves have true union connection fittings that offer easier access for cleaning when needed. Never use a spring-loaded check valve as it will reduce or stop flow.

Installation Guide

Pump Location: position the high flow water pump low and near the source water to prime quickly and achieve optimal performance.

Flooded Suction

Ideal Setup: Does not require priming.

Maintenance Ease: Ball valves installed before and after the pump.

If the water source is higher than the pump, opening the supply valve will fill the pump with water. This is applicable to flooded suction systems. We recommend opening the strainer pot lid on both flooded and non-flooded systems.

Add water and clean the lid O-ring. Finally, close the lid tightly before starting.

Once you fill the priming pot and open the supply valves (if present), your pump is ready to prime. Turn the motor on by plugging in the unit or switching on the power supply.

Priming times may vary, but the water should continue flowing into the basket as the pump goes through the priming process, which should not take longer than 15 minutes.

Important Note: The high flow pump should never run dry. If the water stops flowing into the strainer pot, shut off the pump immediately and consult the manual for troubleshooting tips.

When you start the pump, the water level in the housing should decrease rapidly. Only a small amount of water should enter the pump within 3 minutes. This is normal. If there are no air leaks, the water flow will gradually increase, and the pump will operate at its best.

Suction Lift

Check Valve: Suction lift can be installed with a swing check valve.

Dry-Running Prevention: Install the check valve below the water level to aid in priming and prevent dry-running.

The pump ports are 3” slip on both the inlet and discharge ports. The 2" or 3" fittings included with your pump should connect to PVC or flex pipe plumbing.

All plumbing lines should be self-supported and properly aligned to prevent undue stress on the housing and fittings. Use a good primer and PVC cement to glue the pipe to the tailpiece fittings.

To stop back-flow or reverse rotation, use a ball or swing check valve when the pump is below water level. A ball valve will supplement a swing check valve and allow flow adjustments.

Priming Pot Preparation

Fill the priming pot with water before starting the pump. Ensure your installation location is no higher than 9 feet above the water surface level. We recommend using a 3" tube.

Avoid adding too many fittings or strainers to prevent slowing water flow and delaying pump startup. Refer to the Pump Operation information in the manual.

When determining pump placement, consider the distance and height from the water source. Position the pump no more than 9 feet above the water source to ensure efficient priming and minimize cavitation.

Recommended Maintenance

Strainer Basket: Clean the strainer basket in the priming pot once a week. If there is a lot of debris in the area, clean it more often.

Seals and Bearings: Replace pump seals every 3 to 4 years for fresh water applications and annually for salt water applications. The frequency of replacement depends on the environment and water quality.

Winterization

Cold temperatures can expand water, damaging the pump, plumbing, and other parts, leading to expensive repairs. Winterizing your pump is necessary if freezing temperatures occur in your area for extended periods. Follow the manual's winterization steps to keep your pump safe.

How to Read a Water Pump Flow Chart

The Flow Chart helps you determine your pond's water needs and select the best high flow water pump.

Start by calculating your pond's specific water-flow requirements, measured by Head Pressure (Feet) and Gallons Per Hour (GPH) water flow.

Aim for the Middle of the Curve:

After plotting your calculation on the Flow Chart, find a pump that falls in the middle third of the pump curve, not too close to either axis. Pumps that fall on the fringes of the curve will not work as efficiently for your application, and they will be pushed to their operating limits, reducing their life span.

Other Considerations When Choosing a Pump:

It's Better to Oversize than Undersize: You are better to slightly oversize a pump than to undersize. When oversizing, you can always install a ball valve to reduce the water down to your desired flow.

Check Your Other Equipment: Choose a pump that does not exceed the indicated maximum flow rate on your filter or water feature. Also, be sure the tubing you select can handle the flow rate of your pump.