What is the purpose of cracking the tank to fill?

The purpose of cracking the tank to fill is to circulate water through the pump and refill the booster tank. When you crack the tank, it allows a controlled amount of water to flow, which initiates the process of filling while simultaneously keeping the pump primed. This action helps ensure that the pump operates efficiently and maintains a steady flow of water.

Circulating the water through the pump also aids in cooling the pump components, preventing overheating during operations. It is important for driver engineers to regularly practice this action to maintain the reliability of the apparatus during firefighting and other emergency responses. The process ensures that the booster tank is adequately refilled for future use, which is critical for maintaining operational readiness.