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