Little Giant 6EN-CIA-SFS - 1/3 HP Cast Iron Submersible Sump Pump w/ Vertical Float Switch

I'm sorry to hear of the problems that you experienced with your Little Giant pumps. These pumps, like any other pumps, do need to be installed on a sturdy and level surface in order to get proper operation. The issue that you mentioned could have also been due to air lock in your discharge pipe. Did you drill a "weep" hole in your discharge pipe? The "weep" hole as it is called should always be drilled in your discharge pipe to prevent an air lock. Air locking on a sump pump happens when there is air between the pump and the check valve of the discharge line. The trapped air prevents the impeller from drawing in enough fluid to open the check valve to allow discharge. The weight of the fluid on the topside of the check valve keeps it closed. The problem is often noticed after the initial use, when the pit has had time to dry out during a dry spell. When it gets water in the pit again, the air lock condition shows up. The pump runs due to the float switch being raised, but can't eject the water because of the air lock condition.

I would suggest that you drill a 1/8" or 3/16" hole in your PVC discharge pipe, approximately 4" above your pump's discharge port. Drill the hole at a 45 degree angle so the hole is pointing toward the bottom of your sump basin. Water will be discharging from the weep hole when your pump is operating. This is completely normal. A typical installation will have the check valve positioned about 2-3 feet above your sump basin cover. If the check valve is screwed directly into the sump pump's discharge port, there is really no place to drill the weep hole, but also less of a chance of air lock due to the positioning of the check valve. The only problem with installing the check valve directly into the pump's discharge port is that it takes more power and effort for the pump to start due to the added weight of all the water sitting above that check valve, especially if your head is 8 feet of higher. When the check valve is installed above the basin cover, it reduces that starting power and also makes for a much easier method of replacing or performing maintenance on your pump and system.

All that said, I'm happy to hear that the Liberty 237 is doing the job for you now and I hope that you will consider us again, should you have any other power equipment needs or questions.

Sincerely,
Jim Owiecki
Water Pump Product Expert
800-710-7499 X125
630-685-0025 – Direct
james@pedstores.com