Sun Pumps PCA-30M1D - Manual (Page 5)

3.2 System Design Basics (Read carefully before installation)
1. Use no larger than ½” drop pipe for SDS-D and SDS-T series pumps and ¾” drop pipe for SDS-
Q series pumps. Because of the low flow rates of the SDS series pumps, the water velocity is
not fast enough to carry any sand and sediment to the surface. These small particles may settle
inside the pump as well as the drop pipe causing pump damage.
2. If there is a known sand problem, a sand shroud or a screen is required. The minimum casing
diameter for an SDS-D and T series pump with a sand shroud is 5” (12.7 cm) and for and SDS-
Q series pump it is 6” (15 cm). Sand damage to an SDS series pump is not covered under
warranty. It is therefore highly recommended that sand shrouds be installed on all SDS series
pumps in an unproven well.
3. For optimum pump performance make sure that the wire is sized properly for the length of run
between the pump and the solar modules. Wire sized too small will cause a decreased output
from the pump. Keep the distance from the solar modules to the pump as short as possible.
Refer to a DC wire loss chart for proper sizing. It is recommended to keep the voltage drop
under 3%.
4. Due to the aggressive action of DC power, it is essential that any under-water splice be made
correctly. This splice must be watertight. Improper sealing of the splice will cause poor pump
performance and may cause damage to the system. A submersible 3 wire splice kit is
recommended for this water tight connection.
5. Never install the pump over 50 feet (15 meters) under the static water level. Excessive water
pressure on the pump housing may cause seal damage and allow water to enter the motor
housing.
6. Never rest the pump on the bottom of the well. This can cause the pump to fill with mud and
damage the diaphragm. It is recommended that the pump be set at least 10 feet off of the bottom of
the bore hole. If this is not possible the pump may be placed a minimum of 5 feet above the bottom
of the well (bore hole). If possible, install the pump above the well casing perforations. This will
allow any sand intrusion to settle below the pump.
7. Never install a pump in a well that has had an oil-lubricated line shaft turbine in it without
cleaning it first. Any drip oil remaining in the water may damage the pump diaphragm and
seals.
8. Never chlorinate a well while the pump is installed. Heavy concentrations of chlorine will
damage the diaphragm and seals.
9. Never install the controller in direct sunlight. Direct sunlight on the controller may cause over-
heating of the controller.
10. Never lay the controller on the ground or mount the controller in a horizontal position. The
controller should be mounted in a vertical position only. A convenient place to mount the
controller is on the north side (shaded side) of the solar module array.
11. The controller should be grounded to the pump motor housing, the frame of the solar modules
and to an 8-foot ground rod. If the well casing is steel it may be used as the ground rod. Drill
and tap a hole in the casing or weld a bolt to the casing for the ground lug. Use only a copper
lug to attach the ground wire. The cemented support structure pole will not provide an adequate
ground. Do not ground the positive or negative electrical wires.
12. Do not ground the array positive or negative electrical wires.