How to Troubleshoot Quiet One Pumps

Quiet One water pumps are excellent for aquariums of many different sizes. They can be used to create a closed-loop system for additional water flow or as a return pump from a sump filtration system. Like any pump, they do need maintenance and occasionally repairs. They are very easy to work with and can often be fixed at home. Whenever you work on these pumps, make sure they are unplugged.

Things You'll Need

  • Quiet One pump
  • Soft bottle brush
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Check all the lines leading to and from the pump and make sure they are clear. If the pump is making more noise than it usually does or starts to get hot, it may be straining to work. This usually means there is something clogging either the intake or the outlet of the pump and the water is not moving freely. Check all the plumbing and make sure there is nothing in the lines. Remove any blockages.

    • 2

      Widen the pipes leading to and from the pump. If the pump is immersed in the water without an inlet pipe, such as in a sump, then you do not need to worry about the inlet. However, the outlet pipes may be restricting the flow from the pump. Try using pipe wider than the outlet diameter of the pump. Never reduce the diameter of the pipe smaller than the outlet or inlet diameters.

    • 3

      If your pump has an inlet screen, clean the screen or remove it entirely. Clogged screens restrict the flow and will reduce the life of the pump.

    • 4

      Remove the volute cover and take out the impeller. Make sure all of this is clean and free from algae and other debris. You can take a soft bottle brush and insert it into the opening for the impeller and clean out any slime in the chamber. Clean off the impeller and magnet as well. Inspect the impeller and the impeller chamber for signs of wear. If it looks like the impeller has been grinding on the sides of the chamber, you may need a new impeller or a new pump.

    • 5

      Replace the impeller assembly. If some of the blades on the impeller are broken, you may need to order parts from Lifeguard Aquatics (the makers of Quiet One pumps).