If there’s something unusual about a pump system you’re working with, call JMI Services, LLC.

A wholly owned subsidiary of JMI Pump Systems, JMI Services offers 24/7 support for contractors. Its service team can assist a contractor with an installation or replacement, as well as provide onsite training to individual plumbers or your entire team.

Assisting You with Jobs

“Contact us to troubleshoot any pump job, even if the pump system was not purchased through us,” said Mike Blum, owner of JMI Pump Systems.

The teamwork between JMI Services and contractors can provide businesses with labor savings. Once the basin installation and invert are complete, JMI Services can take the pump system to the final connection, which is done by a licensed plumber.

If there is a pump emergency, and your installers are not available, JMI Services will field calls – even after hours or on weekends – and help troubleshoot or send out the service team if need be.

If a contractor is having difficulty with an installation or replacement, JMI Services has “no problem” troubleshooting or answering inquiries. If questions cannot be answered through the phone, the service team can be dispatched with a fully stocked truck to help the contractor.

The service truck is equipped with sump, effluent, sewage, and grinder pumps; valves; pipe fittings; controls; a pressure washer; a tripod; and more to help with everything from pump and battery backup installations to small lift stations.

Training You for Jobs

“JMI is known for our product knowledge and pump system design,” Mike said. Plus, JMI is willing to help pass its knowledge to its contractors. JMI provides onsite training in pump installation, pump replacement, and specific training on the use of its products.

“Our service team and JMI Services, LLC is one of many ways we are true ‘Partners in Pumping’ with our contractors,” Mike said. “We are different and more than a pump in a box company.”

He emphasized that JMI Services’ customer is the contractor, not the end user of the pump system. For the cost of time and materials, JMI Services will help contractors satisfy their customers. “We bill the contractors, and the contractors bill their customers,” said Mike. “We are not there to compete with our customers; we are simply an extension of them.”

Since 1958, the JMI Pump Systems staff of professionals – over 20 strong with more than 200 years of total experience – has been eager to provide contractors and homeowners like you with solutions to their pump and pump system needs. Serving customers throughout Wisconsin and northeast Illinois, you can count on the pros at JMI Pump Systems to provide the right product at the right time.

For more information on JMI Services LLC, contact Mike Blum at 262-253-1353 or mike@jmipumps.com.

Basin covers are vital components of sump, effluent, or sewage pump packages. You depend on them to be strong and adaptable to specific applications, but when they become broken or rusted, it’s time for a replacement.

JMI offers an assortment of basin covers in steel, stainless steel, aluminum, clear acrylic, structural foam, fiberglass, and PVC.

Our custom PVC basin covers are the definition of strong – the thermoplastic material is dense and hard. PVC is also the greenest option; it takes less energy to produce, it’s easy to install, and it has a long service life.

JMI’s PVC covers are made to your specifications. Standard covers are 18’’, 24’’, 30’’, 36’’, and 48’’ or they can be custom-made to fit your particular basin. Covers can be solid, split for easy vent and cord removals, as well as designed to fit simplex and duplex applications. Our covers will be sealed according to code instructions, which is especially important for radon mitigation.

If you see it’s time for a basin cover replacement, send us a photo with a tape measure across the middle of the cover you’d like to replace. Provide the specifics required regarding the size of discharge and vent, and desire for any of the following: bolt holes, cord grommet, float access cover, clear viewpoint, pump access covers, etc.

We won’t keep you waiting long. We manufacture our covers onsite and can often provide a cover in less than two hours. You can pick it up or we can ship it to you the same or the next day.

We also have recently added the option of including your brand or company logo on PVC basin covers, pumps, or pump systems. To learn more, click here.

Visit our product page to take a look at some custom PVC basin covers we have fashioned for a few special projects.

For questions regarding residential or commercial pump sizing and covers, “Your Partners in Pumping” at JMI Pump Systems are ready to help. Call us at 262-253-1353 or email sales@jmipumps.com.

Who needs another magnet or sticker to advertise your business when you can private label your quality pump system from JMI Pump Systems.

JMI gives you something other pump suppliers don’t provide – a higher value with a private label on a high quality product. If you want your customers to return to you because they like your service, then make it easier for them to contact you with a private label.

If you are not familiar, private label means the label on the pump cord and/or check valve will change to have your contact information on it. We can easily do that because we have our own printing equipment as well as the labor to do it quickly and efficiently. There is a small one-time set up charge and a minimal product up charge. As you well know, your return on investment on this type of marketing is well worth it for the value of repeat business and service calls from your customers.

For example, if someone has a sump pump failure, the first thing they are likely to do is disconnect the pump. But while they have the plug in their hand, they have a label on it – yours – and that is who they are going to call.

We also have recently added private label to our PVC basin covers to further differentiate your business. We manufacture the covers onsite and to your specifications, often in less than two hours. Plus, our CNC machine can etch your logo on the cover. It’s permanent and extremely difficult for someone to tarnish your exclusive marketing tool.

Your takeaway with private labeling is protecting your brand with a personalized product label that reminds your customers they can depend on you for service and products. It’s not only to your advantage to utilize JMI private labeling, but also an advantage to the end user who has that contact information in front of them.

For more information on private labeling or for any of your pump and pump accessory needs, call 262-253-1353 or email sales@jmipumps.com.

Packaged, preassembled, or combination sump pump and backup systems are cost-efficient plus offer convenience through ease of installation and the consistent quality needed to be prepared in the event of a system failure.

A packaged system (primary pump, backup pump, controller, valves, sensors, inverters, etc.) provides everything needed for the application. It’s a streamlined solution ensuring that all components work smoothly together and eliminates extra trips to the shop or supply house. Plus, all components from a single source simplifies communication when there are questions or issues.

Offering combination primary and backup sump pump systems from top industry manufacturers, JMI can match your specified primary pump in your desired configuration with the back-up system that best matches the installation parameters.

One of the highest performance systems we offer is the Metropolitan Industries Dual Pump, AC & Battery Backup System (Model PION-35ACi Deluxe and Model PION-55ACi Deluxe).

The 35ACi package includes…

•       (2) 1/3 HP, EnergyPro pumps
•       Ion Genesis controller and alarm system
•       Ion digital level control switches
•       Ion 35ACI AC/DC inverter
•       AGM maintenance free battery

The 55ACi package includes…

•       (2) heavy duty ½ HP, EnergyPro pumps
•       (1) Ion Genesis controller and alarm system
•       (2) Ion digital level control switches
•       (1) Ion 55ACI AC/DC inverter
•       (2) AGM maintenance free batteries

Attributes of the systems include…

•       Fully automatic auxiliary power source.
•       The systems run on AC or DC power.
•       Runs the same 1/3 HP (35ACi) or 1/2 HP (55ACi) pump with power on or off.
•       Ion Genesis controller monitors all pump activity; alternates each pump and alarm.
•       Full digital display on inverter and controller.
•       Digital level sensors have no moving parts.
•       Options include the cellular/Wi-Fi capable Ion-Connect controller in place of the standard Ion Genesis controller.

Top Selling JMI Back Up System

The JMI pre-assembled options combine your preferred primary pump with our leading back-up system - Alpha. It includes the 12V DC submersible pump, switch, battery charger, and battery box and pumps up to 40 GPM @10 ft.

The advanced controller within the package automatically tests the system once a week, has a built-in high-water alarm, and will sound an alarm whenever a problem is detected. Premounted sensors give you consistent water level settings. Solid state, with no moving parts to fail, the top sensor will operate the pump and sound the alarm simultaneously. Sensors mount directly to the discharge pipe and are rated for 5 million cycles.

An optional but valuable component is the Flood ProText Wi-Fi Module, which allows the unit to send an emergency text to more than one contact whenever there is any reason alarm. It is important to note that a notification will be received not only when the backup is pumping, but also when the battery starts to get low, and when it detects other issues.

In addition, JMI can private label the package to help promote your business and brand.  And by the way – more important than everything above – you are providing peace of mind!

These products are just a couple of our offerings. JMI Pump Systems has the pump products and accessories for any pumping situation, from the simple to the complex. Let us help you find the perfect solution to your pumping needs. For “No Problem Service,” contact Your Partners in Pumping at 262-253-1353 or sales@jmipumps.com.

JMI Services LLC, a division of JMI Pump Systems, offers 24/7 support and service to contractors - whether in an emergency, onsite training, or installation help when the contractor’s own installers are not available.

“We’ve always been known for our product knowledge, pump system design assistance, and help with installations and troubleshooting,” said Mike Blum, owner of JMI Pump Systems. “This service group is taking it to the next level. Our skilled field service technicians are available 24/7 to call for troubleshooting help, and onsite assistance any day of the week.”

Calls for service that come in after regular business hours are mostly fielded by Mike himself, who then gets his service team fully involved when required and/or requested. “We can offer remote troubleshooting to help you rule out many of the more common pump problems. If we can’t help you fix it over the phone, we will promptly get you in touch with one of our technical team members, and if required, dispatch our service team with a fully stocked truck for pump system diagnostic and repair.”

The service truck is equipped with pumps (sump, effluent, sewage, grinders, etc.) valves, pipe, fittings, controls, and testing/diagnostic equipment. Also on board is a pressure washer for cleaning pits, pumps, and switches; and a tripod when needed to assist in a larger pump removal/install. “We can provide assistance in servicing everything from simple sump pump and battery backup installations through small lift stations,” he said.

Mike provided an example of this value-added service in new grinder applications. “We’ll deliver a basin and temporary cover to the contractor who will install at rough-in. When the contractor is ready for the pump, permanent cover, panel, and assorted components (“the guts”), we’ll cover that part of the installation. The electrician and plumber complete it by making the final connections and testing the system. It’s critical to note this teamwork provides the highest quality installation and provides labor savings to our ‘Partners in Pumping’” he said.

“Through JMI Services LLC, we are providing value-added service to our plumbing and mechanical contractor customers, which further differentiates us from the pump in a box supply house or big box store. We want the plumbers to know we are of service to them and will help them with any pump system – even if it was purchased from someone other than its parent company - JMI Pump Systems.”

He emphasized that JMI Service’s customer is the contractor and not the end user. “We are onsite on behalf of our customer – the professional contractor. We do not solicit business directly to end users. We bill the contractor; the contractor bills their customer. Again - we are there on behalf of the contractor; not there to compete with them.”

Mike notes most service calls are scheduled to take place during the work week (M-F, 7 a.m. -4 p.m.), but after hours and weekend assistance is available in an emergency. “If our customer needs us – No Problem!” he said.

For more information on JMI Services LLC, contact Mike Blum at 262-253-1353 or mike@jmipumps.com.

Chopper pumps are designed to chop and macerate solids in wastewater applications including mop heads, pantyhose, wood, bottles, metal cans, and other solids larger than three inches.

Our best selling chopper pump is the Deming Demersible from Crane Pumps and Systems, which provides superior solid size reduction, high reliability, ease of servicing, and low life cycle costs.

The open center cutter design and hydraulics prevent solid build up around the pump and in the volute and impeller passageways, allowing the chopped solids to pass without any clogging.

The slicing blade and striker plate made from heat treated 440C stainless steel maintain their sharpness over and retain excellent solid size reduction capability. Plus, the blades last for a minimum of seven to eight years, minimizing the need for replacement. All wear items, including striker plate, slicing blade, bearings, and mechanical seals can be replaced in less than 30 minutes, saving you and your customer time and money. Its Plug-n-Play quick disconnect cord and large lifting ball make it easy to remove and service the pump from the pit.

An element that makes this product unique is its envie³ motor, with the platform's ability to continuously run in air meaning that its minimum required submergence is significantly lower than the competitions. This allows you to set floats lower, resulting in more regular turnover of the lift station, less FOG buildup, and less chance for the station going septic.

The envie³ high efficiency air-filled motor comes without application limitations. Its patent pending, closed loop glycol cooling system keeps motors stress-free, even in the most demanding applications, including shallow wells, high water tables, and rocky terrain. To maximize flexibility, the envie³’s air-filled motor option is available in both vertical and horizontal configurations. This premium efficient IE3 motor delivers significant energy savings and is easy to service.

Deming Demersible chopper pumps are available in standard and explosion proof models in 3-, 4-, 6-, 8- and 10-inch discharge sizes ranging from 3 to 150 hp with flows up to 5,000 gpm.

The Deming Demersible is ideal for demanding applications including trailer parks, hospitals, prisons, retirement communities, daycare centers, truck stops, mixed-use buildings, and RV parks.

No matter your pumping applications or needs, you can depend on our expert staff to help choose the right solution for you. For more information, contact Your Partners in Pumping at 262-253-1353 or sales@jmipumps.com.

In this month’s blog, we are featuring the Franklin Electric Inline 1100 SpecPAK Pressure Boosting System to provide a simplified way to select a packaged system for boosting water pressure in applications requiring more than one pump.

The system connects easily to any commercial, industrial, or multi-residential plumbing configuration. Instead of choosing individual components within the system, contractors simply determine how much water flow is required to be boosted to the desired constant pressure output. As water volume needs increase, the system instantly accelerates the motor to the proper speed to ensure the water pressure stays constant throughout the application.

This all-in-one constant water pressure system contains the pump, motor, and drive in a compact package for easy and versatile system integration. Powered by water-cooled motors, it delivers quieter operation than traditional air-cooled motors. Power required is a 230-volt single phase transitioning to three-phase through the integrated VFD.

All Inline 1100 SpecPAKs can be mounted in any configuration, providing a zero footprint. Only 14.5 inches deep, the smaller footprint accommodates virtually all mechanical room sizes and fits through standard doorways for worry-free specifications.

Features also include all-stainless components for corrosion resistance and uncompromised water quality, plus electrical design with multiple fuses to prevent surge damage. Simplex systems are also available.

Due to its modular design, the Inline 1100 SpecPAK makes it easy to expand the quantity of pumps after the initial installation should a building expansion or any other increase in water demand arise.

For more information about the Inline 1100 SpecPAK or any other booster pump product, JMI’s professional staff is happy to help. For “No Problem” service, contact “Your Partners in Pumping” at 262-253-1353 or sales@jmipumps.com.

Cavitation occurs when the liquid in a pump turns to a vapor at low pressure. There are 2 kinds of cavitation – suction and discharge.

Suction cavitation occurs when there is not enough flow to the pump resulting in bubbles (cavities) at the eye of the impeller. When the bubbles pass from the middle of the impeller to the outer edges, the change in pressure inside the pumps causes the bubbles to collapse or implode with great force.

Discharge cavitation occurs when the discharge pressure is extremely high, resulting for some fluid to circulate inside the pump instead of discharging. Fluid trapped between the impeller and housing at high velocity causes a drop in pressure and the formation of bubbles and their eventual implosion.

A telltale sign of cavitation is excessive noise and vibration. Vibration causes problems for many pump components, including the shaft, bearings, and seals. Left unchecked, cavitation will eventually erode components beyond repair and lead to pump failure.

Causes of Cavitation

Suction and discharge cavitation share possible causes: clogged filters, pipe blockage, poor design, or the incorrect pump for the application.

The pump curve is also crucial – If the pump is running too far right on the curve, it can cause suction cavitation. If it is running too far left on the curve, it can cause discharge cavitation.

Poor suction conditions can also occur when a pump is selected, e.g., for high efficiency, but does not meet Net Positive Suction Head Required (NPSHr) –the absolute pressure that must be present in a liquid for a pump to avoid cavitation while pumping.

The second part to this is the NPSHr must be compatible with the NPSHa – the NPSH made available by the system in which the pump is installed. A pump that requires more NPSH than the system makes available will not operated as designed and internal damage can be expected in a brief amount of time. A rule of thumb is to require a 10% margin or 5 feet of difference between the NPSHa and NPSHr, whichever is greater.

How can cavitation be prevented?

The best way is to have a good system design, which include appropriate NPSH margins, correct piping, and selecting the right pump for the application. When determining the pump to use for your situation, the experts at JMI are happy to assist and provide a customized solution. Contact us at 262-253-1353 or sales@jmipumps.com.

Most quality sump, effluent, and sewage pumps are equipped with thermal overload protection. When excessive heat is detected, the motor shuts down automatically and restarts one the motor cools. Overloads are already built into smaller motors, while larger motors have electronic overloads in the control panel that usually protect from phase loss as well.

Some common causes of overheating or overloading include:

• Voltage unbalance
• Jammed or locked impeller
• Improper float switch setting
• Continuous operation of the pump
• Running dry (most submersible pumps)
• Faulty windings

In a single-phase pump, the winding overload protector operates on the combined effect of temperature and current. This means the overload protector will trip out and shut the motor down if the windings become too hot or the load current passing through them becomes too high. It will then automatically reset and restart the pump after the motor cools to a safe temperature.

However, repeated motor overheating and shutdowns require a deep dive into the problem. Things to check are…

• the resistance of the motor windings.
• blockage of the impellers, which will need to be cleared if obstructed.
• the bearings, which will need to be replaced if not in good working order.
• if the pump is wired to the correct voltage.

If something is not done to remedy the overload situation, the overload will continue to trip and reset itself until the motor is destroyed.

If you need assistance to troubleshoot the cause of overheating, we can help you with our “No Problem” Service. Contact “Your Partners in Pumping” at 262-253-1353 or sales@jmipumps.com.