A submersible water pump requires regular maintenance to sustain peak operating condition. The most important maintenance task for a submersible water pump involves cleaning the intake screen. Debris like algae or small stones blocks the screen of a submersible clean water pump over time. Removing the screen from a submersible irrigation pump and rinsing under running water restores flow. A submersible fountain pump used daily needs screen cleaning every two weeks. A submersible drainage pump used monthly can go longer between cleanings.
Checking the mechanical seal of a submersible water pump prevents water from entering the motor housing. A failing seal on a submersible water pump shows signs of oil leakage around the discharge head. Replacing the seal of a submersible utility pump costs a fraction of a new pump purchase. Most manufacturers sell seal kits for each submersible clean water pump model. Installing a new seal on a submersible garden pump requires basic hand tools and twenty minutes. A submersible water pump with a healthy seal runs smoothly for thousands of hours.
Storing a submersible water pump correctly extends the device service life significantly. After the final use of a season, draining all water from a submersible water pump prevents freezing damage. Storing a submersible clean water pump in a dry, frost-free shed keeps rubber components supple. Coiling the power cord of a submersible irrigation pump without sharp bends avoids wire fractures. A submersible fountain pump left in water over winter may crack the casing. Removing a submersible water pump from the pond before freezing temperatures arrives protects the pump.
Common operational problems have straightforward solutions for a submersible water pump. If a submersible water pump fails to start, checking the power outlet and extension cord comes first. Testing the GFCI reset button on a submersible utility pump circuit often restores power. If a submersible clean water pump runs but delivers low flow, the impeller likely contains trapped particles. Disassembling the lower housing of a submersible irrigation pump allows access to the impeller chamber. Clearing the impeller of a submersible drainage pump with a soft brush removes obstructions without damage.
Excessive noise from a submersible water pump indicates cavitation or bearing wear. Cavitation occurs when a submersible water pump draws water with dissolved air bubbles. Lowering a submersible fountain pump deeper into the water reduces cavitation risk. Bearing wear produces grinding sounds from a submersible utility pump after many years of use. Replacing the bearings of a submersible clean water pump requires professional service in most cases. A submersible water pump that makes persistent grinding noise should be replaced rather than repaired. A well-maintained submersible water pump delivers reliable garden watering and drainage for over eight years.