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How to Prevent Whirlpool Action in a Cistern

A cistern is a box or receptacle that holds water. Often, a cistern is designed to catch and store rainwater or storm water runoff. Cisterns have waterproof linings to keep the water from being absorbed into the walls. Depending on the use of a cistern, there is usually a drain where the water can be transported for use in cooking, washing or irrigation. Modern day cisterns may collect rainwater and then employ pumps to transport the water for usage. One problem encountered with pumps and cisterns is that the suction of the pump can create a whirlpool or vortex at the drain. If this happens, it could damage the pump. You can install a vortex breaker to prevent the whirlpool action.

Things You'll Need

  • X-type vortex breaker with mounting bracket
  • Bolts
  • Wrench
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Instructions

    • 1

      Drain the cistern completely and allow the bottom close to the drain to dry thoroughly.

    • 2

      Place the x-type vortex breaker directly over the drain. The vortex breaker is simply a tall metal ̶0;X̶1; design where the cross pieces in the middle sit directly over the center of the drain. As water is pumped out and a whirlpool tries to form, the metal legs of the device break up the vortex and allow for smooth pumping.

    • 3

      Secure the vortex breaker to the bottom of the cistern using the bolts and wrench. Depending on the material of the cistern bottom, use masonry or metal bolts. Ensure that the vortex breaker will not move laterally.


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