Fountain Pumps - Tips & Tricks
Sometimes, your fountain pump may appear to stop working. There are a variety of reasons why this would happen, and there's no need to run out and purchase a replacement right away - try these tips and tricks to get your fountain pump working properly again.
Pump hums or vibrates - Always check to be sure your pump is fully submerged in water, as this is the number one cause of pump problems. Often this will alleviate any noise that your pump may be making. Next, be sure the pump isn't vibrating against the side of the container. You can use rubber matting or a piece of an old rag to place between the pump and the basin. This should quiet the pump.
No water is flowing from pump - First, be sure the pump hasn't become separated from the tubing. If it is connected, try tapping the pump on a hard surface. This will knock the impeller back into place if it has become slightly dislodged. If neither of these suggestions work, you will want to thoroughly clean your pump by pulling off the cover, pulling out the impeller, and removing any debris that may be inside. Pumps can become clogged with dust, pet dander, and algae. A good way to keep these things from getting inside your pump is to use this trick: Cut a section of sheer pantyhose and slip it over your pump. Secure both ends with a rubber band. This will act as a fine filter so that debris can't get in.
Basin overflows when turning pump off - This is an indication that you had too much water in the fountain while it was running. Although you need to maintain a high enough water level for the pump to function properly, it shouldn't be higher than 3/4" from the rim of the basin. When you turn off the fountain, the water that was running down the face and up in the tubing empties into the basin, and if there is already too much water in the basin, it will overflow.
Quality fountain pumps are made to last for at least a year, but many will last much longer with proper care. Keep these helpful hints in mind to fix your pump if it seems to have given up on you.
