Backup Return Pump Help

[wiselyy73]

I put two return pumps in my sump. One as the backup. I use Apex to control them. But when I started either one the water keep coming out from the other pump’s intake. I put a valve on each of them so I can close one and pump with the other. The question is how can I make the backup works and switch the values close and open on the pumps when I am NOT at home just in case the primary pump breaks? That’s the whole purpose having the backup pump.

 

[theMeat]

One way/check valves

One on each pump

 

[wiselyy73]

Oh I am using a T connector to one return pipe.

 

[ca1ore]

Flow will take the path of least resistance .... which in your case is back though the idle. If you must do something like this you need check valves on both pumps (before the T) as already noted.

 

[Fin]

I am using dual return pumps, but plumbing each pump separately to its own return. No Ts or check valves. Check vales will also likely reduce the flow from each of your pumps, if that is a concern.