Summary: During burp drafting, cracking the master intake valve in small increments is critical. This controlled method allows air in the hard sleeve to be drawn into the pump and expelled safely through the tank fill. Opening the valve too quickly can introduce too much air, halting the process. By watching the master discharge gauge for fluctuations and adjusting step-by-step, pump operators can ensure a smooth draft start.
Why “Crack and Wait” Is the Key to Burp Drafting Success
When it comes to burp drafting, there’s one move that makes or breaks the operation: cracking your master intake valve the right way. In this segment from the Rural Water Supply series, the lesson is clear — slow and steady wins the draft.
Step-by-Step: How to Burp Without Blowing It
After you’ve opened your Tank to Pump and Tank Fill valves and throttled up to 150 PSI, you’re ready to begin burping. Here’s the tactical sequence:
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Crack the master intake valve slightly.
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Watch the master discharge gauge — if you see it fluctuate, that’s your signal that air is being pulled through the hard sleeve into the pump and is exiting through the Tank Fill valve.
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Stop right there. Don’t keep opening the intake valve just yet.
What Happens If You Rush It
Open the intake valve too far or too fast, and you’ll flood the pump with air. That stalls the burp process entirely, leaving you back at square one. Instead, wait for the gauge to settle near 150 PSI again before cracking the valve a bit more. Each time you see a drop in discharge pressure, you’re releasing another air pocket — and that’s what you want.
Tactical Tips to Keep in Mind
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Burping is a pressure-sensitive dance — throttle up first.
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Let the discharge gauge be your guide. Fluctuation means burping is working.
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Increments matter. Crack, watch, wait, repeat.
Final Word
Burp drafting isn’t just about moving water — it’s about managing air. And the difference between a successful draft and a stalled one often comes down to a few extra turns of a valve. Crack slow, watch your gauge, and let the system burp itself to success.
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