If using a multi-stage pump for pumping from an internal tank or hydrant, which position gives you maximum pressure for a short period?

• A. SERIES
• B. MULTI-LEVEL
• C. SERIES/PRESSURE
• D. LOW PRESSURE

Answer: (C)

When you need the water at the highest possible discharge pressure from a multi-stage pump, stacking the stages in series is the way to go. The series/pressure setting combines the head from multiple stages to push water at a much higher pressure than you’d get from a single stage, which is ideal for a brief, high-pressure burst when pumping from an internal tank or hydrant. The trade-off is reduced flow, so this is best used for short durations rather than extended pumping. Low pressure obviously won’t give you high pressure, and other configurations are focused more on increasing volume rather than peak pressure, making them unsuitable for a short-lived high-pressure requirement.