No. A jockey pump is not designed to run continuously. It starts automatically when pressure in a fire protection system drops below its preset start pressure and stops after the system pressure is restored.

A jockey pump, also called a fire pump jockey pump, is a small pump used to maintain system pressure and prevent unnecessary starting of the main fire pump. Understanding when it starts, stops, and why it may keep running can help operators identify potential problems in a fire protection system.

What Is a Jockey Pump?

A jockey pump is a pressure-maintenance pump installed in a fire protection system. Its main purpose is to compensate for small pressure losses caused by minor leakage, temperature changes, or other normal system conditions.

Unlike the main fire pump, a jockey pump normally handles relatively low flow while maintaining the required system pressure.

How Does a Jockey Pump Work With a Main Fire Pump?

The jockey pump and main fire pump perform different functions.

Under normal conditions, the jockey pump maintains the pressure of the fire protection piping. When pressure drops slightly, the jockey pump starts automatically and restores the pressure.

If there is a larger or sustained pressure drop, such as significant water discharge from the fire protection system, the main fire pump may start according to the system's pressure settings and control logic.

This arrangement helps keep the main fire pump from starting unnecessarily because of small pressure fluctuations.

When Does a Jockey Pump Start?

A jockey pump may start when:

（1） System pressure drops: Pressure falls below the preset start point.

（2） Minor leakage occurs: Small leaks can gradually reduce system pressure.

（3） Temperature changes: Changes in water temperature can affect system pressure.

（4）Testing or maintenance: Water discharge during testing may temporarily lower pressure.

（5）Valve or component problems: A leaking check valve or other faulty component may cause repeated pressure loss.

The exact start and stop pressures should be coordinated with the main fire pump and the overall fire protection system design.

When Does a Jockey Pump Stop?

After starting, the jockey pump continues operating until the system pressure reaches its preset stop point. It then shuts down automatically.

A properly adjusted system should allow the jockey pump to start and stop as needed rather than operate continuously.

Why Does My Jockey Pump Keep Running?

If your jockey pump keeps running continuously or starts and stops frequently, it may indicate a problem that needs investigation.

Common causes include:

1. Water leakage in the piping or fire protection system.

2. Incorrect pressure settings between the jockey pump and main fire pump.

3. A faulty check valve allowing pressure to fall.

4. Insufficient pump performance to reach the required stop pressure.

5. Pressure sensing or control problems.

Continuous operation should not simply be treated as normal. Checking the system pressure, valves, sensing line, and pump performance can help identify the cause.

Jockey Pump vs. Main Fire Pump

Feature	Jockey Pump	Main Fire Pump
Main purpose	Maintain system pressure	Supply high-flow fire water
Flow	Relatively low	High
Operation	Frequent automatic start/stop as needed	Starts during significant fire water demand
Typical application	Minor pressure loss	Sprinkler, hydrant, or major system demand

The jockey pump does not replace the main fire pump. Both pumps work together as part of the fire protection system.

Common Types of Jockey Pumps

Vertical multistage pumps are commonly considered for jockey pump applications because their compact structure can provide the required pressure with relatively low flow. Horizontal multistage and regenerative turbine pumps may also be used depending on system requirements.

When selecting a jockey pump, consider the required flow, pressure, start/stop settings, piping configuration, available installation space, and compatibility with the complete fire protection system.

Jockey Pump Installation Requirements

A typical installation may include the jockey pump, pressure sensing line, pressure gauge, check valve, isolation valve, and associated piping.

The pump's pressure settings should be coordinated with the main fire pump and system design. Installation details and control settings should follow the applicable project requirements, equipment instructions, and local fire protection regulations.

Why Choose Purity for Jockey Pump Applications?

Purity Pump provides vertical multistage pumps suitable for pressure-maintenance applications. The PVT stainless steel vertical multistage pump features a compact vertical structure and stainless steel construction, making it suitable for applications where space, pressure performance, and durability are important.

Purity has 16+ years of pump manufacturing experience, a 60,000 m² independent factory, annual production of 150,000+ pumps, and products supplied to customers in 140+ countries. The company also holds 130+ certificates, patents, and certifications, including CE, UL, ISO, and SASO.

For OEM/ODM projects or fire protection system applications, Purity can provide pump selection and technical support based on your project requirements.

Jockey Pump FAQ

Is a jockey pump supposed to run continuously?
No. It normally starts when system pressure drops and stops after the pressure is restored.

How often should a jockey pump run?
It depends on the fire protection system. Occasional operation can be normal, while continuous or very frequent operation may indicate leakage or incorrect settings.

Why does my jockey pump keep running?
Possible causes include leakage, pressure-setting problems, faulty valves, insufficient pump performance, or pressure-control issues.

When should a jockey pump start?
It starts automatically when system pressure falls below its preset start pressure.

Does a jockey pump replace the main fire pump?
No. The jockey pump maintains pressure, while the main fire pump provides the higher flow required during significant fire water demand.

Conclusion

A jockey pump is not intended to run all the time. Its role is to maintain fire protection system pressure and compensate for relatively small pressure losses. When pressure is restored, it should stop automatically.

If a jockey pump runs continuously or cycles too frequently, check for leakage, incorrect pressure settings, valve problems, and pump performance. Selecting the right pump and coordinating its settings with the main fire pump are essential for reliable system operation.

For jockey pump selection, OEM/ODM requirements, or technical support, contact Purity Pump — Reliable Pumps. Professional Solutions.