The configuration of the pump would be to include quick connects on the valve and pump; male on the valve and female on the pump. Once boiling was finished, figured could turn the heat off and connect the pump to the valve with the quick connect, eliminating the danger of direct heat to the pump (although the blichmann did come with a heat shield to be placed below the valve). Once connected I would think the higher level of fluid in the brew pot would cause the liquid to equalize in the pump/tubing, priming the pump. At least that's the way it ought to work in theory in my head.