SVRS Testing

SVRS (safety vacuum release system) and Automatic Pump Shut Off devices provide a layer of anti-entrapment protection for pools that don’t have multiple submerged suction outlets.  These devices are designed to disable pump suction (mechanical or electrical disconnects) in the event of a detectable entrapment.  There are several approved devices on the market, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the operation of your specific device.   Most devices require a system test is performed at the initial start-up and anytime system changes are made.  Depending on your device, there may be a requirement to perform periodic function tests to ensure your device is maintains its compliance with the ANSI/ASME A112.19.17 standard.  We strongly recommend you carry out and log periodic testing as it is a practice that many health inspectors are looking for during onsite inspections.   Some pools with multiple pumps may have multiple SVRS devices, it is important to test each device.  Should your device not function as designed during a test, it is very important to close the pool to bathers and carry out additional troubleshooting to resolve the issue.  We can set this service up as a recurring visit with our Evaluator™ program or provide additional training to ensure your team is confident with their SVRS operation and testing procedure.  It’s very important that all staff at your facility are aware of potential entrapment risks around pools and hot tubs.  Anti-entrapment compliance is an ongoing responsibility and requires that staff are knowledgeable and aware of potential hazardous conditions.  If you have any questions or require documentation for your device please contact our office.  See below for some guidelines on testing common SVRS equipment, consult your owner’s manual for full instructions before carrying out any testing.

Vacless SVRS Testing

The Vacless requires monthly testing.  To test, leave main drain suction line valve(s) open 100% and close or plug off all other pool outlets on the pump suction lines.

Simulate entrapment by closing the main drain suction valve(s) that are installed within 2’ upstream of the pump.  The Vacless valve seal (piston) should activate (open).  This allows air to rapidly fill the pump and will cause a loss of prime.  Once activation is confirmed, open the main drain suction valve(s) and the valve seal should close and normal pump operation should resume.  Repeat this test three times, if the device does not perform as described above the pool is to be closed to bathers and additional troubleshooting will be required.

Stingl SR-500 SVRS Testing

The Stingl SR-500 requires testing anytime the settings are changes and recommends monthly testing.  Proper operation of the SR-500 must be verified by restricting flow to the pump while running in any of the normal operating modes (timed, continuous, and remote). Begin testing by covering the main drain sump(s) with a rubber mat. This will cause the pump to pull through the skimmer line(s) only, resulting in a higher operating vacuum. It may be possible to cover the drain and not increase the operating vacuum past the cut-off threshold. In these cases it will be necessary to close the skimmer valve(s) to create the vacuum necessary to create an alarm condition. NOTE: Repeat this test 3 times to verify proper installation.

PSP20 Automatic Shut Off Testing

The PSP Automatic Shut Off device requires testing every time the filters are backwashed or every 7-days to ensure the correct operation and programming of the H2flow Inc. PSP20. Testing consists of closing the pump suction valve causing the pump to dry run. The PSP20 should shut the pump down within 1 second.

On Pool applications with skimmer’s, close the skimmer valves prior to completing this procedure.

Ensure that the Timer has disappeared from The Display

To test the PSP20 for a blocked suction condition, ensure that the LCD display shows window 01

Close the pump suction valve. W ithin 1.0 Second the pump should shut down

The display will show Function Underload

The panel Reset push button Light will be illuminated, showing a blocked suction condition has occurred.

To reset the alarm and to restart the pump, press either the ‘Reset’ or the remote ‘RESET’ push button located on the door of the PSP20

Hayward Stratum SVRS Testing

The Hayward Stratum VR500 performs a complete internal system test during every start-up sequence.  Should anything change with the system design (plumbing changes and/or pump replacement), a test consisting of three simulated entrapments must be conducted to verify proper installation, calibration and operation.

An entrapment can be simulated by partially closing or repositioning a valve, so, that there will be a change in the flow pattern. That is, changing the pattern of flow from the suction outlet (Main Drain) to the skimmer will simulate an entrapment.

Field testing criteria to verify the release of a potentially entrapped bather is three simulated entrapments, in which the VR1000 turns off the pump and vents the suction line within three seconds in each of the three simulations.

Field testing criteria to verify the functioning of the pinched tube function is required. This function determines if the system can determine if the pump is connected to the VR1000 vacuum tube, when the pump is running.

A ball, butterfly or sliding gate valve shall be installed within 2 ft (0.6m) upstream from the STRATUM™ (between the STRATUM™ saddle for the vacuum tube and the protected suction outlet), or a test mat shall be used to cover the suction outlet to simulate an entrapment event.