return pump failure

[zlin0524]

i have to replace my return pumps every 2 years or so, i have a 90g , i dunno if thats normal . what do u guys use , i have been using quiet one 4000 by lifegard aquatic ... pls advise thanks

 

[KathyC]

I can't say it is normal to have to replace a return pump every 2 years (knocking wood...)
Are you maintain them by cleaning them every now & then? Do you keep a strainer on the intake to keep snails out of there?
What is going wrong with yours that you need to replace them..if you know?


Eheims are good return pumps. I've had good luck with Mag drive pumps as well (again knocking wood..lol)

 

[NYreefNoob]

not un-common for the brand, especially if not cleaned and soaked in vinegar here and there, i would suggest a ehiem or a bubble blaster pump if using internally

 

[Affordable Aquatic]

That is not normal. I have had the same pumps, running 24/7 for more than 4 years. Why are you replacing the pump. What is failing? Are they jamming from snails in the impeller, do they leak or something else. Do you turn the pump on and off often? Are you running the pump at the upper end of its head capacity?

 

[zlin0524]

I have both pf them in front of me , i clean both often , they r clean as hell and no snails whatsoever . , they just won't turn when I plug in the power . Nothing , it's dead . Wth

 

[Affordable Aquatic]

Its common if the pump has been dry for a period of time that the motors cant spin up because they become caked with salt. You can try a few things. Run HOT water through the pump to help dissolve the salt and free up the impeller. If that doesnt work, you might have to remove the volute, as if you were going to change out the impeller. With the pump unplugged try to rotate the impeller, if was just stuck you might get the pump runing that way. If it moves freely, the motor is obviously toast. I have had to do this with pumps that were taken out of service and not cleaned well. Once they dry the impeller shaft becomes seized up. Some hot water and muscle often will get them going.

 

[empire]

water blaster or coralvue's new dc controllable pump

 

[reefer4eva]

Twice a year I soak all my pumps in vinegar and also reverse flow my chiller with vinegar.but for a good recommendation on a pump I'd go with an eheim.i just recently started using an aqueon 3000 and I'm more than happy with it