Summary: When a primer fails during drafting, you can still establish a water supply using a method called burp drafting. After opening your tank-to-pump and tank fill valves fully, throttle up to 150 PSI on your master discharge gauge. Then, slowly crack the master intake valve until you see gauge fluctuation, signaling trapped air is moving through the tank fill. Always open the intake in small increments to control the burp draft effectively and avoid over-pressurizing the system.
A failed primer during a draft operation can be a massive headache — especially in rural settings where water supply is already a challenge. But there’s a solid workaround: burp drafting. Here’s how to make it work when your hard sleeve is full of air and your primer won’t pull.
Fully open both your tank-to-pump and tank fill valves. This creates a path for air to be pushed through and out of the system. If your plumbing is 2", consider gating back slightly to avoid excess pressure.
Next, throttle your pump up to 150 PSI as shown on your master discharge gauge. This creates the pressure differential needed to start moving air through the system. Don’t rush this part — consistent pressure is key.
Now comes the critical move. Crack your master intake valve just enough to allow air from the hard sleeve to begin flowing. What you’re watching for is fluctuation in the master discharge gauge — that tells you trapped air is being pulled through the system and vented via the tank fill.
Here’s where pump operator finesse really matters. Don’t just swing the valve open. Open it slowly, in small increments. This gives you control over how much air is entering the system and prevents sudden pressure spikes. Andy Soccodato from The Water Thieves stresses this step — keep it incremental.
Burp drafting isn’t just a backup move — it’s a smart tactic to keep in your toolbelt. When that primer fails, this method gets you back in the game fast, without needing to break down your entire setup.
Want the full lesson? Click the red button to learn more!