Some things to consider:
- A water pump does not suck air very well when priming the pump. The intake line and the pump housing must have very little air if any at all.
- A foot valve (which has a check valve) or in-line check valve with a filter is best low in the water where the weight of the water helps it seal.
- Chose a union fitting near the pump that is easy to use and easy to seal. It will be used every spring and fall or when maintaining the intake line. The tiniest leak in the intake line will prevent the pump from having any pressure or maintaining a prime.