When drafting, a prime should be obtained with ______.

When drafting, a prime should be obtained with ______.

• A. 30 seconds
• B. 60 seconds
• C. 15 seconds
• D. 45 seconds

Answer: (D)

Drafting requires clearing air from the suction side and filling the pump and suction line with water so the pump can develop suction. Running the priming pump for about 45 seconds is long enough to purge air and establish a continuous water column in the suction hose and pump casing, so the pump can begin drawing water reliably once the discharge is opened. If you prime too little, air pockets can prevent a strong prime and the pump may lose suction; priming for too long wastes valuable time and can lead to overheating or loss of prime due to leaks. The 45-second duration strikes a practical balance, giving you a clear indication of prime (water visible in the pump and steady suction) without unnecessary delay.

Drafting requires clearing air from the suction side and filling the pump and suction line with water so the pump can develop suction. Running the priming pump for about 45 seconds is long enough to purge air and establish a continuous water column in the suction hose and pump casing, so the pump can begin drawing water reliably once the discharge is opened. If you prime too little, air pockets can prevent a strong prime and the pump may lose suction; priming for too long wastes valuable time and can lead to overheating or loss of prime due to leaks. The 45-second duration strikes a practical balance, giving you a clear indication of prime (water visible in the pump and steady suction) without unnecessary delay.