Noisy Pumps
Check if the water pump is fully submerged in water. Water pumps start to create noise when the water level is too low. If water is replenished but the pump is still emitting noise, check that the pump is not vibrating against the side or bottom of the fountain basin. You can also provide additional buffer by placing a sponge or pad underneath or beside it to minimize the vibrations.
Do note that all water pumps emit a soft humming sound and there is no such thing as a completely quiet pump.
My pump is on but no water is flowing
Firstly, check to see if the pump and tubing are connected. They may become disconnected during installation or cleaning. If the connection is loose, wrap some electrician’s tape around the pump’s outflow nipple so that it forms a tight connection. Next, ensure that the tubing is smoothed out and not tangled up or kinked. Unplug the pump and plug it back in a couple of times to remove air bubbles.
If there is no issue with the tubing and connection, check if the impeller is stuck. Tap the pump on a hard surface to loosen the impeller. You may also have to clean the pump and impeller to get rid of debris for it to spin again.
Pump and tubing keep coming loose
If tubing is loose, you can wrap a little bit of tape around the pump’s outlet nipple to create a tighter connection. Do not overtighten as this may cause the plastic to break.
General cleaning of water pumps
- Switch off power source of the water fountain and unplug the pump.
- Remove any debris that has accumulated on the outside of the pump with a sponge, cloth or brush.
- For more stubborn algae, you can remove them by soaking the pump in vinegar.
- Remove the pump cover and clean the impeller by removing debris.
- Replace the impeller and cover. Your pump should be clean and running optimally.