When a pump isn’t working correctly, it could be due to an electrical or mechanical malfunction. A broken impeller, a power outage, or a blocked filter are possible causes. Taking precautions against pump failures is crucial because they can have severe repercussions, including flooding, water damage, or the collapse of a whole pipe system. Here are some common pump problems and troubleshooting tips to help you avoid inconveniences:
Excess vibration
Although your Pumpbiz pump may naturally hum, it shouldn’t generate any odd noises; if it is, there is a problem. A change in sound may indicate that there is a problem with your system or pump. You may have cavitation if you notice popping sounds, especially close to the impeller.
This happens when a liquid experiences pressure fluctuations, which lead to the formation and eventual implosion of tiny air pockets. The impeller may sustain severe damage; therefore, inspect the pump for any indications of cavitation, such as worn material.
Overheating
Several things, including improper installation, over-rated motor operation, inadequate lubrication, and foreign items obstructing the cooling fins, can cause overheating, leading to pump failure.
Do the following to fix a pump overheating problem:
- Keep discharge pressure to the maximum that the motor manufacturer has specified.
- Open up the ventilation more or move the pump to a colder location.
- Drain the oil and replace it with the appropriate kind.
The pump motor won’t start.
A power problem could cause your pump to fail to operate or be underperforming. To fix the problem, examine your pump’s factory specs to ensure the right electrical power source for optimal operation.
Verify that your pump is receiving an electrical current in the first place, that all electrical wiring is correctly done, and that there are no loose connections. Ensure the compressor is in perfect operating order if your pump is air-operated. Last but not least, if you use a central electricity supply, get an expert to determine whether or not your mains electricity is stable.
No liquid is being pumped.
Several factors may contribute to the issue: The pump might not be primed, it has an excessively high suction lift or static discharge head, it spins the rotor in the incorrect direction, it is operating at a low speed, or it has become blocked.
Before starting the pump, ensure the liquid is fully inside. Should there be any trapped air in the pump, it will not function properly. Verify that there are no friction losses in the pipeline and that the static lift is not excessive. Also, ensure the rotor is spinning in the right direction as soon as the pump starts.
Corrosion
The internal components of a pump can sustain damage from corrosion, leading to pump failure. Usually, corrosion comes from the corrosive fluid that the pump is moving or, occasionally, from improper cleanup procedures.
Examine your system for apparent indications of wear and tear, such as deposits or residue that has broken off your pump, pipe, valve, or fitting interiors. Replacing the entire piping system or pump may not be necessary—just a single part.
The takeaway
If you see any signs of a pump failure, you should check the pump immediately and, if necessary, get advice from a pump specialist.
