Common Problems with Outdoor Fountain Pumps and How to Fix Them

Common Problems with Outdoor Fountain Pumps and How to Fix Them

Outdoor fountains add tranquillity and charm to any garden or yard. Fountain pumps are sometimes real babies that go off, leaving you with a sad and silent trickle of water (or worse yet, fully decided to stop running). Luckily, most fountain pump problems are a breeze to fix and you can recognize them with this guide and know how to fix them like a pro.

Even when you buy a small fountain pump you can face these issues. So, knowing how to treat them is a good way to stay prepared.

1. No Power to the Fountain Pump

You plug in the fountain pump eagerly, but nothing happens. At first probability, this can be frustrating.

Common Causes:

How to Repair: 

  • Check on the Power Supply: Ensure the fountain is plugged into the outlet.
  • Inspect for Debris: Open the pump housing and clean out anything dirty, including leaves and algae.
  • Check the Motor: If the pump refuses to change status, you might have to purchase a new one.

2. Weak Water Flow

The fountain is running but giving a weak flow. Not what made nice soothing sounds, which you need to hear slowly being played in the background. If water flow suddenly lowers, 95% of the time there is a blockage or stuck impeller. Only buy fountain pumps from trustworthy sources whenever you need an outdoor fountain pump.

Common Causes:

  • Unclean Or Infiltrated Filter: The flow of water can be affected by a long period of building dirt and algae.
  • Non-Submerged Pump: A pump must not be above the water surface; it will starve for water and may potentially fail.
  • Pump Size: Your pump seems too tiny for the fountain size.

How to Repair:

  • Clean the Filter and Pump: Open and clean the pump filter; clean parts of the pump getting dirty.
  • Move the Pump: Place the pump securely and make sure it is fully submerged.
  • Upgrade the Pump: If water flow continues to be an issue, check out pumps of larger capacity.

3. Noisy Pump

Instead of the soothing sound of water, your pump sounds like it auditions for a rock band.

Common Causes:

  • Air Trapped In the Pump: Air bubbles trapped in the pump create a rattling or gurgling noise.
  • Loose Components: Vibration causes noise from loose parts.
  • Worn Bearings: If the bearings within the pump become worn down, the pump will become quite loud with time.

How to Fix It:

  • Reprime the Pump: Tilt the pump while it is running to remove trapped air until the noise goes away.
  • Tighten Loose Screws: Very simply check for any loose components and secure them tightly.
  • Replace Bearings: If the noise persists, the bearings may need to be replaced.
  • Check the Impeller: See the video noted above.
  • Support the Pump: Place pump on spongey material to reduce vibration.

4. Pump Getting Hot

The pump is hotter than on summer days and keeps shutting down.

Common Causes:

  • Running Dry: If there is a very low water supply, the pump will surely heat up quickly as it has nothing to work on.
  • Restricted Water Flow: Blockages will cause problems with the pump working too much to achieve its target.
  • Poor Ventilation: These pumps outdoors need adequate airflow, providing ventilation to cool them down.

How to Fix It:

  • Ensure Water Level Is Up: Ensure the fountain has enough water.
  • Clearing the Blockage: Inspect and remove debris or algae from the pump to prevent obstructed flow.
  • Improve Ventilation: Place the pump in an area that does not disturb the sun or fix the problem of direct sun exposure when overheating occurs.

Conclusion

The secret of a long-lasting water feature is maintaining the fountain pump. With these tips, you’ll spend more time enjoying your fountain than worrying about fixing it. So roll up your sleeves, get to work on fixing those pesky pump problems, and restore that soothing sound in your outdoor oasis!

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