Pump Repairs and Maintenance
The Pump House is equipped to service, repair and test most makes of pumps that we sell as well as other manufactures products. We repair jet pumps, end suction centrifugal pumps and piston pumps in single phase. If you are experiencing a problem with your pump do not hesitate to bring it in, we can test it and let you know our findings
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Pump Repair & Maintenance
Maintenance and repair are never exciting endeavors. This is especially true if the item in question is something that’s alien to most of us—a pump. Let’s get to know all about the repair and maintenance of the trusted pump.
What is a Pump?
A pump is a device that moves liquids or gases from one location to another. It is a hydraulic device that moves them from low to high-pressure areas and lifts them from low to high levels. A pump transfers liquids and gases by converting its mechanical energy into pressure energy, also called hydraulic energy.
How Does a Pump Work?
Pumps are part and parcel of life. They are present in many everyday items, such as hand lotion bottles and gasoline stations. But how do they work?
The most basic pumps use a moving piston and one-way valves. These valves let the fluid, which can be either gas or liquid, flow in a single direction in the system. They prevent fluid from flowing in the opposite direction.
Pistons apply pressure to the fluid, causing it to move to the desired location. Note that liquids are incompressible, meaning they cannot be compressed. As a result, pumps can only move liquids. On the other hand, gases are compressible. Therefore, pumps can force gas into a closed space by increasing the pressure.
In essence, pumps work by creating a vacuum in which the liquid is forced by ambient air pressure.
What are the Different Types of Pumps?
There are two classifications of pumps: dynamic pumps and positive displacement pumps. Let’s get to know them below.
Dynamic Pumps
Also known as kinetic pump, a dynamic pump uses kinetic energy to increase the velocity of the working fluid as it passes through the impeller. It then converts this increased velocity into pressure. Below is a list of the different kinds of dynamic pumps:
- Centrifugal Pumps
- Vertical Centrifugal Pumps
- Horizontal Centrifugal Pumps
- Submersible Pumps
- Fire Hydrant Systems
Positive Displacement Pumps
Positive displacement pumps add energy to a fluid. It does this by forcing it with a mechanical device such as a piston or plunger. The volume containing the liquid is reduced by a positive displacement pump. They do this until the resulting liquid pressure is the same as the pressure in the discharge system.
In short, these pumps mechanically compress the liquids, which results in a direct increase in potential energy. Positive displacement pumps come in different varieties. Below are a few:
- Diaphragm Pumps
- Gear Pumps
- Peristaltic Pumps
- Piston Pumps
- Lobe Pumps
Signs That Your Pump is Broken
Pump repair and maintenance are subjects that many of us are unaware of. It may be because they are too complicated and troublesome for many of us. But the bottomline is, if you have a pump in your home, it’s essential to know the basics. Here are a few signs that your pump is failing:
- Mechanical seal leakage – the majority of leaks occur at the interface between the two seal faces. However, leaks can also occur in the secondary sealing area. Mechanical seal leakage can happen for varying reasons, including dry running, thermal distortion, and misalignment of seal rings, among others.
- Process issues – these occur due to an incorrectly chosen pump for a specific process, industrial application, or operating conditions. Selecting the appropriate pump for your application is imperative.
- Bearing issues – one of the most common reasons for bearing failure is improper lubrication. This results in overheating. Other causes may be due to improper bearing selection, overloading, fatigue, and many others.
- Wear and tear of the impeller – erosion is the top reason for this; however, there may be other causes, such as an incorrectly-sized pump that causes a pressure imbalance.
- Coupling-related issues – overloading, misalignment, uncommon environmental causes, improper lubrication, and torsional vibration are some issues related to coupling.
For concerns about pump repair, you can rely on The Pump Hose. We can help you with all your broken pump concerns.
Ways to Keep your Pump in Tip-Top Shape
To avoid unnecessary pump repair, it’s vital to know the proper pump maintenance. Here are ways to help keep your pumps in good working condition:
Determine the Right Pump Maintenance Frequency
If you can, consult the manufacturer’s guidelines on the proper pump maintenance and its frequency. It’s also essential to determine the best time to schedule your pump maintenance sessions.
Regular Observation
Make it a point to regularly check up on your pumps. Take note of possible leaks, unusual sounds, colors, or vibrations, if any.Do a Mechanical Inspection Routine
Schedule regular pump checkups such as the following:
- Securing the mounting points
- Checking the mechanical seal and packing
- Looking for leaks in the pump flanges
- Checking the couplings
- Inspecting and cleaning the filters
Lubrication
The manufacturer’s guidelines will also tell you when and how to lubricate the motor and pump bearings. Do this with caution, as too much lubrication can wreak havoc on your pumps. Remove the vent cap from the bearing and run the pump for 30 minutes before reinstalling the cap. This will allow the excess grease to drain from the bearing.
Do an Electrical and Motor Inspection
- Make sure that all terminations are tight.
- Check the motor vents and windings. Dust and dirt can build-up, so make sure to clean them according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
- The starter/contractor can fall into arcing or overheating, ensure that you check these periodically.
- Check for insulation failure by using a megohmmeter.
Replace Run-Down Seals and Hoses
Replace any hoses, seals, or O-rings that show signs of wear or damage. The use of a temporary rubber assembly lubricant ensures a tight fit and prevents leaks or slips.
Pump maintenance is no longer a problem. Let us take the burden off your shoulders by calling us today.
Money-Saving Tips on Pump Maintenance
Whether its a water pump or a sump pump, here are ways that you can save money on their maintenance:
- Choose the right pipe diameter – make sure that you are using the right pipe diameters.
- Trim the impeller – trimming the impeller when your pipes are oversized can reduce the pressure and flow that it produces.
- Use only when necessary -shut down pumps when not in use.
- Stick to regular pump maintenance – schedule your pump maintenance to keep them in top shape.
Pump Repairs and Maintenance Conclusion
Pumps are integral parts of homes, offices, and many other structures. It can be costly when they get damaged. As they say, prevention is better than cure. If you find all these overwhelming, it’s time to contact the pros.
Call us today, and let us handle your pump repair & maintenance.
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