How to Repair a Submersible Pump
Submersible pumps have a longer life expectancy than other sump pumps. This is because a sealed, oil-filled chamber holds the pump motor. It stays protected against external elements such as corrosion, water, dust and debris. The sealed chamber allows the pump to work under water.
It should not end up completely submerged if it is working properly. There are parts more fallible than others, rendering the pump unworkable. Fibers and debris can clog the impeller, which drives water in the basin toward the outlet pipe. The float switch damages easily and there may be simple electrical problems to overcome.
Things You Will Need
- Screwdriver
- Paper
- Pen
Tip
Ensure there is a back-up sump pump ready to take over if the one in regular use fails. Replace the float if it appears damaged. Wash it if it is dirty, as it can affect its performance. Always keep the manufacturer's instructions handy and within easy reach.
Warning
Ensure the appliance is touched with dry hands for safety purposes.
Always make sure that the pump remains switched off and unplugged before inspecting it.
When employing an electrician, ensure he or she is bonded and has the right qualifications to deal with your sump pump.
Wearing rubber boots or shoes will protect you against electric shocks.
Unblock the Impeller
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Switch off and unplug the pump. Remove the outlet pipe connection.
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Take the pump out of the sump basin.
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Unscrew the pump base to reach the impeller chamber.
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Remove the screws from the chamber and take out the impeller.
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Clean out the chamber and wash the impeller in clean water under a faucet.
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Shake off excess water and replace the impeller inside its chamber.
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Put the chamber back in place and re-assemble the pump with the base and screws.
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Place the sump pump back into the basin and reconnect the outlet pipe.
Swap Float Switches
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Unscrew the top of the float chamber based on top of the pump.
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Sketch a plan of where the existing wires are connected. Do this before removing them.
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Pull off the original wires of the unit carefully and unscrew the switch.
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Replace the old switch with the new one. Screw it into the unit and reconnect the wires.
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Put the top back on the float chamber and screw it down.
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Re-submerse the sump pump in the basin and reconnect the outlet pipe. Test the pump by turning it on if required.
Check Electrical Supply
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Check the power supply first if the pump is not working to establish that it is not due to a power outage. If it is, and you have a back-up pump, switch it on and let it take over.
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Switch off the pump and remove the plug from its socket if power outage is not the issue.
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Unscrew the plug unit and see if the fuse is still in position. If it is, change the fuse and screw the unit back together.
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Switch on the pump and test it again.
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Unscrew the plug unit and see if the fuse is still in position. If it is, change the fuse and screw the unit back together.
The Drip Cap
- Submersible pumps have a longer life expectancy than other sump pumps.
- It stays protected against external elements such as corrosion, water, dust and debris.
- Switch off and unplug the pump.
- Place the sump pump back into the basin and reconnect the outlet pipe.
- Do this before removing them.
- Unscrew the plug unit and see if the fuse is still in position.
References
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