Troubleshooting 6
Symptom
Possible Cause(s)
Corrective Action
Pump won’t start
or run.
Pump is not plugged in.
Check and see if pump is plugged into a proper outlet.
Blown fuse.
If blown, replace with fuse of proper size.
Low line voltage
If voltage under recommended minimum, check size
of wiring from main switch on property. If OK, contact
power company or hydro authority.
Defective motor.
Replace pump.
Defective float switch.
Replace float switch.
Impeller
If impeller won’t turn, remove lower pump body and
locate source of binding.
Float obstructed
Remove obstruction.
Pump starts and
stops too often.
Backflow of water from piping Install or replace check-valve.
Faulty float switch
Replace float switch.
Pump won’t shut
off
Defective float switch
Replace float switch.
Restricted discharge (obstacle
or ice in piping)
Remove pump and clean pump and piping.
Float obstructed
Remove obstruction.
Restricted intake screen
Remove the pump and clean the intake screen and the
impeller.
Pump operates
but delivers little
or no water
Low line voltage
If voltage under recommended minimum, check size
of wiring from main switch on property. If OK, contact
power company or hydro authority.
Something caught in impeller
Remove the pump and clean out the impeller.
Worn or defective parts or
plugged impeller
Clean impeller if plugged; otherwise replace pump.
Check valve installed without
vent hole.
Drill a 1/16” - 1/8” (1.6mm-3.2mm) dia. hole between
pump discharge & check valve (1-2” above where the
discharge pipe screws into the pump discharge and
below the waterline).
Restricted intake screen
Remove the pump and clean out the intake screen.
Check valve is installed either
backward or upside down
Be sure check valve is installed correctly.
