How often should the changeover/transfer valve on a two-stage pump be checked for proper operation?

• A. Daily
• B. Weekly
• C. Monthly
• D. Yearly

Answer: (B)

The changeover/transfer valve controls switching between the two stages, so its ability to move smoothly and seat correctly is essential for reliable pump performance. It isn’t exercised every moment, but over time debris, varnish, wear, or leaks can cause sticking, slow movement, or misalignment. Checking it weekly provides a practical balance: frequent enough to catch developing issues before they affect operation, but not so often as to be unnecessarily burdensome. A proper check verifies the valve can travel through its full range, the position indicator matches the actual flow path, there are no leaks, and the stage transition engages correctly under normal conditions. This helps ensure the pump shifts properly when needed, maintaining capacity and protecting the equipment.