How do I fix my pond pump motor | Baltimore pond companies | Maryland koi ponds

How do I fix my pond pump motor | Baltimore pond companies | Maryland koi ponds 

How do I fix my pond pump motor?

Your pond pump motor is one of the most important pieces of equipment in your pond or waterfall. I have repaired many pond pumps in the Baltimore, Maryland area and have compiled the following tips to help you troubleshoot pond pump problems.

Problem #1 – Pump Hums but Pushes Very Little Water

Possible Cause: Impeller may be seized by debris.
Troubleshooting: Unplug (always unplug a pump before doing any work) and remove the pump from the pond and inspect the pump intake to ensure there is no debris restricting the impeller. Remove any debris, like rocks or sticks, which may have become lodged around and above impeller. Many times there is a screen that can become plugged with debris preventing adequate water flow to the impeller.

While the pump is still out of the pond, lay it on its side and plug in the pump to make sure the impeller spins. If the impeller does not spin you may need to think about replacing the pump.

Possible Cause: Pump may be “air-locked”.
Troubleshooting: Air has gotten into the impeller chamber. Tilt the pump while it’s submerged in the pond to allow air bubbles to be released from the impeller chamber or remove the pump from the pond and re-install, ensuring that the impeller chamber is filled with water.

Problem #2 – Pump Is Not Running (pond pump motor is not humming or making any sound)

Possible Cause: Poor electrical connection, tripped breaker, tripped GFCI outlet blown fuse, or other interruption in power supply.
Troubleshooting: Check to make sure all electrical connections are working and that a Maryland (MD) licensed electrician installed and tested it.

Note – Long extension cords may cause voltage drop at the pump and the amps to rise above maximum level. This can cause the pump to heat up and burn out the motor. In general x/extension cords are never good to use with a pond pump.

Problem #3 – Pump Pushes Very Little Water

Possible Cause: Plumbing line clogged with debris.
Troubleshooting: Disconnect the pond pump from the pipe. This will allow the plumbing to drain. Clogged debris may back-flush out of the plumbing and into the pond during this procedure. Inspect the plumbing to make sure no debris is lodged inside.

Problem #4 – Pump Operates Intermittently

Possible Cause: Not enough water in the pond.
Troubleshooting: Most pond pumps must be completely submersed in water to operate properly. Low water levels may cause the pump motor’s internal thermal shut-off to activate. The thermal shut-off will deactivate once the pump is cooled down. The proper water level must be established in the pond for the pump to work properly.

Possible Cause: The pond or waterfall basin is too small to support the volume of water needed for the stream and waterfall.
Troubleshooting: The pond must be designed to provide enough water to the stream and waterfalls for proper circulation. When the pump is first started, it may be necessary to add a few inches of water to the pond in order to account for the water used to feed the stream and waterfalls. Ponds that are too small may not be able to supply enough water to start the streams and waterfalls. This will cause the water in the pond to drop below the opening of the skimmer upon initial start-up and starve the pump of water.

Enjoy!
Remember, your pond should not be an endless source of frustration and confusion to you. If you continue to have problems with your pond, regardless of the troubleshooting steps you performed, it may be time to contact a Maryland pond professional. We specialize in ponds and waterfalls. Helping pond owners all over Baltimore county and Harford county

I’m always here to help… 410-746-3400

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