Congratulations on the purchase of the Clarus Environmental
Centrifugal STEP System. This system will provide years of
trouble-free service when installed according to the manufacturer's
recommendations.
Please read and review this manual before installing the product.
The instructions contained herein, when followed correctly, will not
only ensure a long and problem-free life for the system, but also
save time and money during installation. Should further assistance
be necessary please call Clarus Environmental at 1-800-928-7867.
Safety Instructions
TO AVOID SERIOUS OR FATAL PERSONAL INJURY OR MAJOR
PROPERTY DAMAGE, READ AND FOLLOW ALL SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS IN MANUAL AND ON THE PUMP.
THIS MANUAL IS INTENDED TO ASSIST IN THE INSTALLATION
AND OPERATION OF THIS UNIT AND SHOULD BE KEPT WITH
THE SYSTEM.
This is a SAFETY ALERT SYMBOL.
When you see this symbol on the pump or in the
manual, look for one of the following signal words
and be alert to the potential for personal injury or
property damage.
Owner’s Information
Model Number: ______________________ Date Code: _________________
Warns of hazards that WILL cause serious personal
injury, death or major property damage.
Warns of hazards that CAN cause serious personal
injury, death or major property damage.
Warns of hazards that CAN cause personal injury
or property damage.
INDICATES SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS WHICH ARE
VERY IMPORTANT AND MUST BE FOLLOWED.
THOROUGHLY REVIEW ALL INSTRUCTIONS AND WARNINGS
PRIOR TO PERFORMING ANY WORK ON THIS PUMP.
MAINTAIN ALL SAFETY DECALS.
REFER TO WARRANTY ON PAGE 2.
Limited Warranty
CAUTION
CAUTION
CAUTION
CAUTION
Manufacturer warrants, to the purchaser and subsequent owner during the warranty
period, every new product to be free from defects in material and workmanship under
normal use and service, when properly used and maintained, for a period of one year
from date of purchase by the end user, or 18 months from date of original manufacture
of the product, whichever comes rst. Parts that fail within the warranty period, one
year from date of purchase by the end user, or 18 months from the date of original
manufacture of the product, whichever comes rst, that inspections determine to be
defective in material or workmanship, will be repaired, replaced or remanufactured at
manufacturer's option, provided however, that by so doing we will not be obligated to
replace an entire assembly, the entire mechanism or the complete unit. No allowance
will be made for shipping charges, damages, labor or other charges that may occur
due to product failure, repair or replacement.
This warranty does not apply to and there shall be no warranty for any material or
product that has been disassembled without prior approval of manufacturer, subjected
to misuse, misapplication, neglect, alteration, accident or act of God; that has not
been installed, operated or maintained in accordance with manufacturer's installation
instructions; that has been exposed to outside substances including but not limited to
the following: sand, gravel, cement, mud, tar, hydrocarbons, hydrocarbon derivatives
(oil, gasoline, solvents, etc.), or other abrasive or corrosive substances, wash towels
or feminine sanitary products, etc. in all pumping applications. The warranty set out in
Lifetime Warranty: Every Clarus Environmental lter is guaranteed to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for the lifetime of the homeowner/purchaser. Free repair
or replacement, excluding labor, will be made on return of the lter prepaid to the factory. This warranty is limited to product proven to be free from abuse or improper installation.
the paragraph above is in lieu of all other warranties expressed or implied; and we do
not authorize any representative or other person to assume for us any other liability in
connection with our products.
Contact manufacturer at, 3649 Cane Run Road, Louisville, Kentucky 40211,
Attention: Customer Service Department to obtain any needed repair or replacement
of part(s) or additional information pertaining to our warranty.
MANUFACTURER EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS LIABILITY FOR SPECIAL,
CONSEQUENTIAL OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGES OR BREACH OF EXPRESSED
OR IMPLIED WARRANTY; AND ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE AND OF MERCHANTABILITY SHALL BE LIMITED TO
THE DURATION OF THE EXPRESSED WARRANTY
Some states do not allow limitations on the duration of an implied warranty, so
the above limitation may not apply to you. Some states do not allow the exclusion or
limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion
may not apply to you.
This warranty gives you specic legal rights and you may also have other rights
which vary from state to state.
Preinstallation Information
1. Inspect your unit. Occasionally, products are damaged during shipment.
If the unit is damaged, contact your dealer before using.
2. Carefully read the literature provided to familiarize yourself with specic
details regarding installation and use. These materials should be retained
for future reference.
3. Do not lift, carry, or hang pump by the electrical
cables. Damage to the electrical cables can cause shock, burns or
death.
4. For your protection, make certain the pump
ground wire is properly connected to the ground wire with the
incoming power line. Test for ground at the junction box using
an Underwriters Laboratory listed circuit analyzer which will indicate if the
power, neutral and ground wires are correctly connected. If in doubt, call a
qualied licensed electrician.
5. Make certain that the receptacle is within
the reach of the pump’s power supply cord. DO NOT USE AN EXTENSION CORD. Extension cords that are too long or too light
do not deliver sufcient voltage to the pump motor. But, more important, they
could present a safety hazard if the insulation were to become damaged
or the connection end were to get wet.
6.
the voltage requirements of the motor, as indicated on the pump nameplate.
Check to be sure your power source is capable of handling
7. Make sure the pump electrical supply circuit is equipped with fuses or circuit breakers of proper capacity. A sepa-
rate branch circuit is recommended, and sized according to the
“National Electrical Code” for the current shown on the pump
nameplate.
8.
The installation of pumps using auxiliary variable level
oat switches is the responsibility of the installing party and care should
be taken that the tethered oat switch will not hang up on the pump ap-
paratus or pit peculiarities and is secured so that the pump will shut off.
9.Water hammer creates momentary high pressure surges.
These surges can cause severe damage to check valves and the piping
system. Consideration for water hammer must be included in the piping system design. Reference ASPE Data Book, Chapter 2.33. Some
systems may require external spring or lever weighted check valves or
other engineered solutions.
10. In cold climates the discharge pipe may be subject to
freezing. If the riser on the septic tank is above the frost line, it will be
necessary to protect the system from freeze up. The discharge pipe can
be insulated or the check valve can be removed. If the check valve is
removed, the “on-off” cycle must be adjusted for any back-ow from the
discharge line.
System Installation Instructions
1. Clarus Environmental Centrifugal STEP Systems are designed for
installation in septic tanks through the riser on the discharge end
of the tank. See Fig. 1. If a complete system has been purchased,
all the components will be included except external pipe, ttings,
and riser. Check your Local Code for alarm requirements.
2. All installations must comply with all applicable electrical and
plumbing codes, including, but not limited to, National Electrical
Code, local, regional, and/or state plumbing codes, etc.
3. If the Clarus Environmental Centrifugal STEP System is being
retrotted into an existing septic system, it will be necessary
to pump and clean out the septic tank before installing. Before
pumping, measure down to the liquid level in the septic tank (not
the scum layer) from the septic tank lid and record. The septic
tank lid becomes the reference point for measuring to correctly
install your system. Take the proper measurements before attempting
to install the new ltered pump system.
4. The outlet pipe is typically 3” below the inlet on a conventional gravity
system. Check the dimensions from the top of septic tank to the
bottom of the inlet and outlet pipe. Each individual system varies
therefore do not assume your system is 3”.
5. An 18” hole is required in the top of the septic tank to install the STEP
system. If the hole in your septic tank is less than 18”, provisions
must be made to open the hole up to 18”. (You may have to change
the lid of the septic tank.)
6. If your system is not equipped with a riser, install a new Clarus
Environmental 24” or 30” diameter riser. Follow the installation
instructions provided with the riser.
2
System Installation Instructions, continued
7. Bring piping from the lateral eld to the outside of the riser on the
septic tank. Note: If installing a system using a control panel follow
the instructions included with the panel and skip steps 11-12 and 15.
8. Disconnect Clarus Environmental exible pipe assembly at union
on ball valve. Install pipe seal through the riser wall (2” hole saw
required) to prevent ground water intrusion. Install exible pipe
through pipe seal with union ball valve on inside of riser as shown
in Figure 1A. Solvent weld exible pipe to lateral eld piping using
PVC pipe cement.
9. Connect other part of 1 ¼” discharge pipe assembly to pump outlet
with pump setup outside the pump tank.
10. Tie off power cord by strapping to the discharge pipe. Make certain
the cord cannot become entangled or obstruct the movement
of the floats.
11. Install wire from power source and the alarm. See Fig. 1A or 1B. If
a junction box is being used, Fig. 1A, install inside the septic tank
riser. If a Qwik Box System is being used, Fig. 1B, install outside of
septic tank riser as shown in Fig. 1B or inside of septic tank riser.
Note: Some codes require the junction box to be outside the riser.
12. Install pump switch on discharge pipe using the included band clamp.
Place the band clamp as low on the discharge pipe as possible.
Tether the pump switch so that 3.5" of cord exists between the oat
and the clamp. This will yield a 7" drawdown cycle. Additional
tethers can be used if state, local and regional codes permit.
supply cord and strain relief or connect conduit directly to the pump.
hardware should be performed by a qualied licensed electrician.
ground wire is properly connected to the ground wire with the
incoming power line. Test for ground at the junction box using
an Underwriters Laboratory listed circuit analyzer which will indicate
if the power, neutral and ground wires are correctly connected. If in
doubt, call a qualied licensed electrician.
13. Measure length of hanger pipes by measuring inside the riser. Cut and
install hanger pipes in lter tank and lower the assembly into the septic
tank opening. Tie off power cords by strapping to discharge pipe. Make
certain cords cannot become entangled or obstruct the movement of the
oats. See Fig. 1. Lower pump with discharge pipe and oat assemblies
into lter tank.
14. Adjust piping using threaded elbows and exible piping provided to achieve
proper t. Connect union on ball valve.
15. Install the alarm inside the house or in a weather protected location per
installation instructions with alarm kit, making sure the alarm is plugged into
a different circuit than the pump circuit. Complete the wiring connections. If
a junction box is being used, Fig. 1A, wire per diagram in Fig. 4. If a Qwik
Box outside connection is being used, wire according to the installation
instruction provided with the Qwik Box unit. All wiring, from the power
source to the pump, must conform to the National Electrical Code. Be
sure to leave a sufcient amount of cord so the lter can be serviced
without disconnecting the cordage from the junction box or Qwik box.
See Maintenance section on back page.
16. Fill the septic tank with water and check the alarm level before placing
the system into service. See operation and start-up areas of this manual.
“Risk of electrical shock” Do not remove power
Installation and checking of electrical circuits and
For your protection make certain the pump
Figure 3 - Tethered Pump Switch
3.5 INCH
TETHER LENGTH
FOR DOUBLE
FLOAT
3.5 INCH
MINIMUM
TETHER LENGTH
FOR PUMP
SWITCH
SK1301
Figure 4 - J-Box Wiring Diagram
DISCONNECT
VARIABLE
LEVEL
SWITCH
R
BLACK
WHITE
SK306
DISCONNECT
SWITCH
WHITE
PUMP
WATERTIGHT
JUNCTION BOX
L1L2
GREEN
BLACK
VARIABLE
LEVEL
PUMP SWITCH
WHITE
BLACK
WHITE
PUMP
GREEN
BLACK
L2L1
CONTROL SWITCH
SWITCH
Note: Some codes require the junction box to be outside the riser.
Clarus Environmental Centrifugal STEP Systems are adaptable for
Timed Dosing Applications using the following recommendations.
• Refer to Clarus Environmental Centrifugal STEP Systems catalog
sheet (CL0031) and Clarus Environmental Timed Dosing Panels
catalog sheet (CL0107) for ordering the correct panel part number.
• If the system is dosing a collection system, draineld, sand lter,
wetland, or some other secondary wastewater treatment system,
the ideal dosing pattern should be known and applied.
Operation
GENERAL
The centrifugal septic tank effluent pumping (STEP) system is
designed to be an easily installed, drop in pump basin that does
not require an additional pump chamber. However it can be
installed in a secondary pumping chamber. By using a submersible
pump, high head pressures are achieved. The system was
designed for convenience. The filters are easily removed for servicing.
The filter has 528 linear feet of 1/16” filtration. This large surface
area ensures adequate filtering, and a longer interval between
necessary servicing.
SHORT TERM STORAGE
If unit is to be stored for six months or longer:
• Store system inside whenever possible or cover with some type of
protective covering
• Store unit upright in original shipping container
• Ideal storage temperatures are 45 to 90 degrees
• Tape or seal in a plastic bag the terminal ends of the wire leads
• The alarm must be activated before the efuent level reaches the
bottom of the existing outlet pipe. The alarm can be set higher, up
to the bottom of the inlet pipe, if the existing outlet pipe has been
plugged. This can be determined by measuring the location and
elevation of the discharge pipe.
• Filling the septic tank with water after completion of the installation
must be done in order to check the pump and alarm.
the pump and check valve to insure the pump will not airlock
• If a control panel is used, the panel must be dry and securely installed
Fill the septic tank with water and check the system operation before
placing into service.
After installing the pump into the containment area with adequate
submergence, open the discharge valve fully. Start the unit using manual
controls. If ow is appreciably less than rated performance, pump may
be air locked. To expel trapped air, jog the unit several times, using
the manual controls.
Have a qualied electrician take voltage and current measurements on the
black wire of single phase. Record these readings in the space provided
in the “Owner’s Information” section of this manual for future reference.
Be sure to complete all items such as installing the lid on the riser,
securely closing the control panel, and checking the system operation
have been completed before placing the system into service.
If panel is to be stored for more than six months, the following is advised:
• Store the panel inside whenever possible and leave in the shipping box
• All openings must be sealed
• Store in an upright position
• Do not stack anything on top of panel
START-UP
Before placing the equipment into operation the following must
be checked:
• Septic tank should be pumped and cleaned prior to installation in
existing system
• Installation needs to be according to instructions
• Installation should include an easy access riser and tamper resistant lid
• Filter assembly needs to be in place and secure
• Floats need to be in place, secure and adjusted for proper cycling
• Make sure oat switches are free to move within the basin
•
Be sure electrical connections are watertight and conform to uniform
building codes
• When a check valve is used, drill a 3/16” vent hole in pipe, between
• If the system is dosing a collection system, draineld, sand lter,
wetland, or some other secondary wastewater treatment system,
the ideal dosing pattern should be known and applied.
• The high water alarm will indicate the system needs maintenance.
However, regular maintenance by trained professionals is a necessary
part of operation.
• During operation, the system owner must continue to use proper
septic tank ownership practices. Ground garbage, hair, grease, and
non-ushable paper products should be prevented from entering any
septic system. These materials will be prevented from entering the
draineld by the lter apparatus, but abuse of the system will result
For your personal safety and health, a high quality
pair of rubber gloves are recommended while servicing this unit. For
your personal health, always wash your hands with antibacterial
soap after servicing this unit.
Always disconnect pump and panel from its power source
before servicing
GENERAL
Clarus Environmental Centrifugal STEP Systems require periodic maintenance
to remain in operational condition. A qualied service technician should carry
out the required maintenance. These technicians will not only service the pump
unit, but can assess the health of the septic tank.
SERVICE FREQUENCY
• The system contains an efuent lter. This lter will prevent solids larger
than 1/16” from entering the pump compartment. The lter will require
cleaning. The cleaning interval is determined by household use patterns.
For example, a single individual may need a lter cleaning and inspection on
yearly intervals, but a family with teenagers may require lter maintenance
every six months, or sooner. The pump tank and pump should be serviced
at a minimum each time the septic tank is pumped. Annual inspections
by trained professionals are recommended.
• Alarm activation between service intervals may be an indication that the
system is not being serviced often enough. The alarm indicates a high
liquid level and service is required immediately to avoid ooding
and sewage back up into the house.
SERVICING THE UNIT
During lter maintenance, the service technician must perform the following:
• Check the sludge level of the septic tank. If the sludge level approaches
the bottom of the STEP vault, the septic tank needs to be pumped.
• The pump should be removed, cleaned, and inspected. Any defective
components should be replaced. Inspect and remove any sand, debris,
or mud present in the pump basin assembly.
• Inspect the panel for any presence of moisture in enclosure, loose
connections, and general component condition.
• Check for proper location and unobstructed oat operation.
To remove the entire system:
1. The pump and lter tank must be removed for cleaning and servicing. This
provides an opening for pumping out the septic tank. Remove the riser
ring cover only after disconnecting power to both the pump and alarm.
2. Disconnect the pipe union in the discharge pipe and remove the entire
pump tank assembly. Hose off assembly as it is being removed to avoid
any spillage of sewage or efuents outside the septic tank.
3. Lift assembly out of the riser and stand upright on ground or level working
surface. Remove one of the 1½” support pipes, and then remove lid, pump/
oat assembly, and discharge pipe. Place over septic tank opening and
hose down thoroughly. The cordage from the junction box to the pump is
of sufcient length to avoid the necessity of disconnecting the electrical
wiring in the junction box. Do not disturb wiring connection unless pump
is being replaced or repaired. If access is required to the junction box,
disconnect power. Power is disconnected in the Qwik Box by unplugging
the connections.
4. With tank & lter over the opening, hose down the inside and outside tank.
Remove lter pack from tank by pushing on lter pack at the bottom of the
tank through opening or pulling from the top side.
5. Reinstall lter in tank. Check oat assemblies for proper operation and
reassemble pump piping and lid on lter tank. Reinstall 1½” support pipe.
Install pump and lter tank back in tank and reconnect union.
6. Fill tank with water and check out the pump system and alarm.
7. Follow Start-up procedures located in the Operation section of this manual
to get system running again.
Service Checklist
ELECTRICAL PRECAUTIONS- Before servicing a pump, always shut off the main power breaker and then unplug the
pump - making sure you are not standing in water and wearing insulated protective sole shoes. Under ooded conditions, contact your
local electric company or a qualied licensed electrician for disconnecting electrical service prior to pump removal.
Submersible pumps contain oils which becomes pressurized and hot under operating conditions - allow 2½ hours after
disconnecting before attempting service.
CONDITIONCOMMON CAUSES
Check fuse, low voltage, overload open, open or incorrect wiring, open switch, impeller or
A. Pump will not start or run.
Motor overheats and trips overload or
B
.
blows fuse.
C. Pump starts and stops too often.
D. Pump will not shut off.
E.Pump operates but delivers little or no water.
Drop in head and/or capacity after a
F.
period of use.
seal bound mechanically, defective capacitor or relay when used, motor or wiring shorted.
Float assembly held down. Switch defective, damaged, or out of adjustment.
Incorrect voltage, impeller or seal bound mechanically.
Float tether length too short, check valve stuck or not installed in discharge line, overload
open, level switch(s) defective.
Debris under oat assembly, oat or oat rod obstructed, switch defective, damaged
or out of adjustment.
Check strainer housing on pump and discharge pipe must be open. Discharge head
exceeds pump capacity. Low or incorrect voltage. Incoming water containing air or
causing air to enter pump. Filter Clogged.
Increased pipe friction, clogged line or check valve. Abrasive material and/or adverse
chemicals could possibly deteriorate impeller and pump housing. Check discharge line.
Remove base and inspect pump.
If the above checklist does not uncover the problem, consult the factory - Do not attempt to service or otherwise disassemble pump.
All Clarus Environmental products must be installed and maintained in accordance with all applicable codes.
Product information presented here reflects conditions at time of publication. Consult factory regarding discrepancies or inconsistencies.