What should the residual pressure read to avoid increasing pump pressure?

To determine the appropriate residual pressure that indicates the pump pressure can be safely maintained or increased, understanding the dynamics of pumping operations is crucial. A residual pressure reading of 10 psi is optimal as it provides a balance between adequate pressure for effective water delivery and safety for the pump operation.

When a residual pressure is too low, it may indicate that the system could be experiencing issues such as increased demand on the supply or inadequate flow, which can lead to pump cavitation or failure. A reading of 10 psi suggests there is enough pressure in the system to indicate a healthy flow while also ensuring the pump is not under strain, preventing potential damage or performance issues.

Higher residual pressures, such as 15 or 20 psi, may encourage misunderstanding about the pump's capabilities and might lead to unnecessary adjustments in pump pressure settings, particularly if the demand on the system is lower than the capacity. Conversely, a reading lower than 10 psi could signal a need for caution, as it may affect the efficiency and safety of the pumping operation. Thus, maintaining a residual pressure of 10 psi is an important practice in fire response operations to ensure effective water supply delivery without risking damage to equipment.