Pumps

Franklin Electric Co., Inc. (www.franklin-electric.com – NASDAQ:FELE) now offers enhanced Little Giant^® GP Series grinder pump models that operate across voltages ranging from 208 V to 230 V in one model. The GP‐A (Automatic) and GP‐M (Manual) versions’ powerful motor and construction are designed to handle the tough demands of low pressure sewage applications, utilizing the same reliable patented cutter system at 414,000 cuts per minute. These new units incorporate a non-clogging impeller staged for efficient pumping of sewage slurries with a shut-off head of 130 feet. These pumps are equipped to handle the demands of grinding domestic sewage whether as a replacement pump or a packaged system.

Available in an automatic version for single-phase power sources and a manual version for both single-phase and 3-phase power sources, the GP-A and GP-M employ a powerful 2 hp single-phase, 3450 rpm with capacitor start/run motor with built-in overload protection to prevent over-current and over-temperature damage. Other design features include corrosion-resistant brass impellers that minimize downtime and maintenance and an epoxy-coated cast iron finish for corrosion resistance and durability.

For more information, visit www.littlegiant.com.

Wilo USA, a provider of pumps and pump solutions for water management, building services and groundwater, is pleased to announce the release of the Wilo Helix EXCEL high efficiency multistage pump line.

“The Helix EXCEL offers efficiencies up to 94% thanks to the EC motor and High-efficiency drive combination. We have seen from 20%-50% energy savings compared to a multistage pump with a VFD and high-efficiency motor” says Don Kahn, Product Manager, Wilo USA.

“The NSF 61 certification on select ranges, as well as the easy serviceability of the cartridge-style seal, make the EXCEL the ideal option for a wide range of applications,” Kahn concludes.

Wilo Helix EXCEL comes in 304 and 316 stainless steel, as well as in cataphoresis-coated cast iron construction. The EXCEL range can reach a maximum flow rate of 350 USGPM with a maximum head of 800 feet, and is suitable for applications such as water supply, pressure boosting, process water, pressure washing systems, industrial circulation systems, cooling water and irrigation.

Franklin Electric Co., Inc. (www.franklin-electric.com – NASDAQ:FELE) offers the new Little Giant SPBS Series Battery Backup Systems allowing contractors to provide homeowners with the peace of mind that their basement is protected from flooding when the electricity goes out. The Little Giant SPBS Series comes in four new systems: two options that feature the full system including a primary sump pump, backup sump pump, controller, charger and alarm, and two options providing everything except the primary sump pump. The full systems utilize the proven Little Giant 6EC or 10EC sump pumps that deliver capacities from 53-67 gallons per minute (gpm). The result is a system with high flow rates, quick charging time, and hours of battery longevity.

Adding our proven RS-12 switch, the Little Giant SPBS Series provides hours of reliable pumping when the electricity goes out. The switch technology requires nothing mechanical to operate the pump, thus minimizing the opportunity for mechanical hang-ups. In addition, it features a new controller, charger and alarm system that is available in 10 amp and 12 amp versions. The controller and charger monitor the battery condition and charge it when an electrical outage occurs. The alarm then audibly alerts the homeowner that the unit is in use. The system has built-in protection against overcharging, reverse polarity, short circuits and input overloads, and features a test button to manually run the backup pump for added peace of mind.

The 12 VDC backup sump pump has a durable, non-corrosive housing with stainless steel fasteners for added longevity and provides flow rates of 42-53 gpm. All SPBS Series systems come with a 2-year warranty. For more information, visit www.littlegiant.com.

Unico’s popular new heat pump, the iSeries outdoor unit with inverter technology, is about to become even more popular.  The manufacturer plans to send U.S and Canadian contractors a $500 check for every unit they sell this year between August 1 and December 31, according to Scott Intagliata, marketing director for Unico. The offer is available for both residential and commercial applications.

Intagliata says HVAC contractors like the outdoor heat pump’s high-efficiency ratings, as well as having the ability to match it to Unico’s high-wall splits or ducted units, or a combination of both, operating at the same time from one outdoor unit.

“The iSeries is the first and only multi-split product that combines the best of ducted and ductless technology,” Intagliata said. “This means you can give customers the advantages of the Unico System – even temperatures, no drafts, and small ducts for better aesthetics – along with high wall units to help solve design or construction challenges.”

The iSeries line has been well-received since its introduction a year ago. The outdoor unit achieves high SEER ratings when paired with Unico high-wall units or a combination of high-wall units and ducted units. The heat pump operates efficiently in a wide outdoor temperature range, from -25 degrees F to 122 degrees F. It features antifreeze protection and an intelligent defrost system, and is compatible with UniZone, Unico’s damper system for up to three zones.

The iSeries heat pump operates continually at various speeds, but never completely shuts down. The unit makes small, incremental changes to most efficiently meet the load request. In a traditional system, however, every time the system cycles on it must ramp up to full operating power, requiring a tremendous amount of energy.

“Standard HVAC systems are constantly cycling on and off, consuming a great deal of power. Inverter technology is so much more efficient and will really help customers reduce energy consumption and utility costs,” Intagliata said.

Unico introduced the iSeries in the U.S. in 2014 after it entered a partnership with Argoclima, an Italian manufacturer that has produced the high-efficiency HVAC line for several years. The iSeries combines the Italian-made outdoor unit with Unico’s American-made air handler and has found a strong niche in custom homes as well as retrofits in older homes.

The iSeries is available in four sizes from 1.5 to 3-ton capacities. The air handlers include the ability to heat with boiler heat as secondary heating source. No other inverter drive unit has this capability.

Unico products are available through dealers throughout the US and Canada. Contractors can find a dealer in their area by visiting www.unicosystem.com and clicking on “Find a Rep.”