FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Rainwater Systems

Why won’t my rainwater pump switch off?

The pump may not be reaching its required shut-off pressure. Common causes include the pump not being primed, insufficient water in the tank, a suction-side leak, or debris affecting the foot valve. Check that the tank contains water and that the pump has been correctly primed. If the problem continues, contact APP Technical Support.

Rapid cycling can occur when the accumulator tank pressure is incorrect or when the system demand is lower than the pump’s operating range. A service technician may need to check the accumulator pressure, system flow requirements and pump selection.

Check whether:

  • The filters are dirty or blocked
  • Any isolation valves are closed
  • There is a blockage between the pump and the outlet
  • The incoming mains supply is sufficient, if the system uses mains water

If these checks do not identify the issue, contact APP for technical assistance.

Confirm that there is water in the tank and that the tank float is connected, unobstructed and positioned correctly. A float issue may prevent the controller from detecting available tank water.

UV lamps typically require replacement after approximately one year of operation. An alarm can also indicate a lamp or ballast fault. Check the displayed fault code and refer to the unit manual, or contact APP for assistance.

Check that the unit is powered on and review any displayed fault code. The backwash screen may also require cleaning. If the alarm remains after cleaning or restarting the unit, contact APP Technical Support.

The filter alarm gauge may have been incorrectly adjusted, or the backwash filter may require manual cleaning. APP recommends having the gauge and filter inspected if the alarm continues.

The lid seal may be incorrectly seated, pinched or missing. Ensure the O-ring is correctly positioned and that the lid has not been overtightened. If the leak continues, isolate the system and contact APP.

Check that the unit has power and press the restart button. If the fault returns, the pump may require priming or further inspection. Avoid repeatedly restarting the pump if it is not moving water, as this may damage it.

Water Booster Systems

Why won’t my booster pumps switch off?

First confirm that the system has been commissioned and that the pumps are operating in automatic mode. Incorrect controller settings, insufficient water supply, trapped air or an incorrectly selected pump can also prevent the system from reaching its set pressure. These settings should be checked by an authorised technician.

Cycling may be caused by incorrect accumulator pressure, controller settings, pump selection or a continuing pressure drop after the pump stops. A technician should check the accumulator, system settings and operating requirements.

Check that the manual override circuit breaker has not been left on. If the controls still do not respond or the screen is not displaying correctly, contact APP Technical Support.

Possible causes include a closed valve, a blocked pipe or an incorrectly sized pump. Check that accessible valves are open and that there are no obvious restrictions. Further testing may require a service technician.

Pump Stations

Why is the fault strobe active on my pump station?

The strobe generally indicates a high-level condition or a pump fault. Check the controller to identify which warning light is active. If safe to do so, confirm whether the pit is full and whether the pumps are operating. Contact APP if the alarm does not reset.

A high-level alarm may indicate that the water level has reached the alarm float, the pumps are not operating correctly, or the float has become caught or obstructed. Check the water level and contact APP if the tank or pit is not being pumped down.

The pump may be blocked by dirt or another foreign object, experiencing an electrical supply issue, or operating outside its intended conditions. Do not continue resetting a recurring fault. Isolate the equipment and arrange a service inspection.

The high-level float may be caught, obstructed or incorrectly connected. A technician should inspect the float and its wiring if the alarm remains active.

An above ground pump station transfers wastewater or stormwater between locations without requiring an underground installation.

Above ground pump stations are available in fibreglass, stainless steel, and polypropylene construction.

Key benefits include reduced excavation, minimal site disruption, easier installation, and improved maintenance access.

Yes. They are suitable for both stormwater and wastewater applications.

The required configuration depends on the flow rate, duty requirements, and level of redundancy needed for your application.

Yes. APP can provide customised pump station sizes, materials, and pump arrangements to suit specific project requirements.

Yes. APP Above Ground Pump Stations are designed to meet AS2941 requirements.

Undersink Units

Why is the undersink pump running but not removing water?

The pump may be airlocked, particularly during its first operation. If the unit previously operated correctly, siphoning or a blockage may be contributing to the issue. Switch the unit off and contact APP if the tank is not emptying.

The float may be stuck in the raised position due to accumulated solids or another obstruction. Turn the unit off and check for visible debris around the float. If the problem continues, the float or pump may require replacement.

Check that power is available and that the float is not trapped beneath solids or another obstruction. The pump may operate quietly, so also confirm whether it is running without moving water. If the tank remains full, turn the system off and request service support.

Fire Pump Systems

What should I do if an alarm appears on the fire pump control panel?

Note which warning light is illuminated and review the corresponding fault in the system manual. You may use the stop/reset control where permitted. If the alarm returns, contact an authorised fire pump technician.

The bell may sound while the pump is operating, including when a hydrant is open. Close any hydrant that has been opened for testing and follow the system’s approved reset procedure. If there is no identifiable cause, contact your fire services contractor immediately.

Do not continue operating the system. The cooling circuit and engine should be inspected by an authorised technician before the unit is returned to service.

Before Contacting Technical Support

To help APP diagnose the issue, have the following information ready:

  • System type and model
  • Controller or pump model
  • Which warning lights are illuminated
  • Any fault code shown
  • Pressure displayed on the gauge
  • Whether the pump is running
  • Whether the tank or pit contains water
  • When the issue first occurred
  • Clear photos of the controller and installation

SERVICES

What are the signs that a pump needs servicing?

Unusual noise, vibration, leaks, reduced flow or pressure, frequent starting and stopping, and recurring alarms can indicate a problem. Early inspection can help prevent further damage and downtime.

Frequent starting and stopping, known as short cycling, can result from leaks, pressure vessel problems, faulty controls, or incorrect settings. APP can investigate the cause and recommend repairs.

Possible causes include a blockage, trapped air, loss of prime, a damaged impeller, or a supply or valve issue. An inspection can identify the fault and help prevent further damage.

Yes. APP can assess the pump, controls, and associated components to identify the underlying cause of recurring faults or alarms.

APP can assess pump controls as part of a system inspection. Provide details or photos of your control panel and any fault messages so our Service Team can confirm the support available.

Yes. Standby pumps require regular inspection and testing to confirm they will operate when needed. Infrequent use can leave faults undetected until the duty pump fails.

Servicing can identify blockages, wear, and control issues that contribute to inefficient operation. The potential energy savings depend on the equipment’s condition and how the system operates.

The decision depends on the pump’s condition, age, repair cost, efficiency, parts availability, and suitability for the application. APP can assess these factors and recommend a practical option.

Yes. APP can review the system and recommend upgrades, such as new pumps, controls or variable speed drives, to improve its reliability.

APP can work with you to plan servicing around site access and operational requirements. Advise our Service Team of any shutdown restrictions or critical operating periods when booking.

Provide the site address, contact details, a description of the issue, and any access requirements. Photos of the pump, nameplate, control panel, and alarm messages help our team prepare.

Yes. You can book a service without knowing the pump make or model. Send photos of the equipment and any visible labels, and our Service Team can help identify it.

Yes. APP can inspect your system for wear, deterioration, and performance issues, then recommend maintenance or repairs to help you plan future expenditure.

Contact APP’s Service Team with your site details and information about the equipment requiring maintenance. We can review your requirements and advise whether a site inspection is needed before quoting.

Yes. APP offers planned periodical maintenance programs designed to reduce the risk of breakdowns, extend asset life, improve reliability, and lower the lifetime cost of ownership. Maintenance plans can be tailored to your site requirements and may include scheduled servicing, compliance reporting, and ongoing support.
Yes. APP provides onsite field service repairs. Our fully equipped service fleet allows technicians to attend sites for inspections, troubleshooting, maintenance, and emergency repairs, while more extensive work can be completed in-house when required.
APP provides 24/7 emergency support for customers across our service network. Coverage areas may vary depending on location and service requirements, so we recommend contacting our Service Team to confirm support availability for your site.
Service frequency depends on factors such as pump type, operating hours, duty cycle, criticality, and site conditions. As a general rule, commercial pump systems should be inspected and maintained regularly to identify developing issues before they become failures. APP can recommend a maintenance schedule based on your specific equipment and application.

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