What should be done before testing a pump for blockages?

Before testing a pump for blockages, proving that the tubes are clear is crucial because blockages in the piping system can significantly affect pump performance and lead to inaccurate test results. Ensuring that the tubes are free from obstructions helps confirm that any issues experienced during pump operation are not related to restrictions in the flow path, thereby allowing for a more accurate assessment of the pump's condition.

In the context of pump operations, ensuring clarity in the tubes is essential to maintain proper flow and prevent potential damage to the pump or connected systems. By ruling out the possibility of blockages in the tubes, you enhance the reliability of the testing process.

It is also important to consider the sequence of checks. While visual inspections and clearing the intake filter can be critical steps, they are typically conducted after confirming that the tubes are clear. If the tubes are blocked, it doesn't matter how well the intake filter is maintained or what the visual inspection reveals, as the pump may still show symptoms of malfunction due to the obstruction.

Calculating flow rates, while important for understanding pump performance, is contingent upon verifying that the entire system, including the tubes, is free of blockages. Testing flow rates when there may be blockages in the system could lead to misleading conclusions about the