Automated pond or water feature efficiency requires proper maintenance of your pump impellors. The proper implementation of these measures ensures your pump operates without major setbacks and reaches its intended longevity. This guide presents a plain approach to help you complete the process.
Safety First
Disconnection of mains electricity supply must follow as your first step to prevent any accidents from taking place. Examine all instructions found in the troubleshooting section of the product manual.
Step-by-Step Guide to Check the Impellor
- Turn Off the Unit: The operational system must be completely turned off, followed by unplugging the device.
- Unclip the Head from the Body: The head section can be separated from the main body by operating the provided side clips.
- Access the Impellor: Most external filters and pumps have a similar design. Start by unclipping the head unit from the body using the side clips. Once removed, turn the head unit over to reveal the impellor housing. You will notice a centre piece with four spindles that can be twisted open to access the impellor.
- Remove and Inspect the Impellor: Take out the impellor and check if the fan piece rotates. It should rotate halfway and stop. If it rotates a full 360 degrees, the impellor needs replacement.
Common Issues and Solutions
Impellor issues are often caused by debris or algae buildup, which restricts the spinning motion and reduces water flow. Regularly cleaning the impellor prevents such blockages. For those using Oase Pond air pumps, this practice is particularly beneficial in ensuring optimal performance.
Preventative Maintenance for Longevity
The vital rotating component within the pump system is the impellor, which keeps moving water throughout your pond. The heavy usage of aquatic equipment leads to natural product deterioration. Your pond pump will work better in summer if you perform yearly maintenance of the impellor by both removing it and cleaning it.
You should replace the impellor immediately when you identify serious damage caused by wear and tear. Proactively maintaining your equipment will conserve time in replacing pumps under emergency scenarios while protecting the internal components of the equipment from damage.
Dealing with Limescale Buildup
The combination of harsh water and accumulated limescale creates problems by causing friction between the impellor and motor body, which leads to overheating of the components. The usage of kettle descalers should be avoided when removing limescale, as these products pose a threat to fish health.
It is safer to employ vinegar or lemon juice as they will break down the limescale with patience. The Pond Guy recommends two fish-safe cleaning products for proper pump maintenance.
Replacement and Spare Parts
Since impellors are moving parts, they are typically not covered under manufacturer warranties. Snagging the ideal alternative parts constitutes a time-consuming task, though That Pond Guy maintains a comprehensive assortment of replacement impellors accessible from their Spare Parts domain.
The combination of preventive steps enables your pump to operate efficiently and prevents you from having to replace it frequently. The performance of your pond depends on ongoing maintenance practices that maintain both its beauty and ecological health.