Water pump repair and replacement parts

What typically has to be repaired on a centrifugal pump?

When a pump doesn’t pull water into the system, you have to check a few things. The problem on a new install could be that the pump was connected to the wrong voltage supply line, but it could also be a problem with the pressure switch, impeller, bearings, hub or one of the other common parts used in most centrifugal pumps.

What types of parts are used in centrifugal pumps?

There are several major parts used in a standard centrifugal pump, including:

• Motor: The motor powers the pump and sets everything else in motion. The motor is connected to the shaft that spins the impeller, which draws water into the suction pipe. If the motor doesn’t turn on, you need to troubleshoot the basic potential problems first. You should make sure the plug is secure in the outlet. If it is, you should then check the electrical fuse or circuit breaker to see if it has burned out and needs replacing. In some cases, it may be time for a new motor.
• Impeller: The impeller is often made of a rubberized material and is used to create the centrifugal force necessary to pull water from a source, like a river or well, and push the water into your house, storage tank or irrigation system. The impeller is susceptible to damage from debris that gets sucked up into the pump through the intake pipe. The debris can break off parts of the impeller and can render it useless or make it much less efficient at moving water.
• Pressure switch: This switch is designed to turn on and shut off at prescribed pressure levels that can be set and adjusted by a pump owner. If the pressure switch fails, the pump will either not turn on or won't turn off. The pressure switch can be adjusted or replaced.
• Shaft: The shaft extends from the motor to the impeller. It is usually square or triangle-shaped and no more than a few inches long, depending on the type of pump you use. If the shaft breaks or slips out of place, the pump will become noisy, and you likely won't get water because the shaft can no longer spin the impeller properly.
• Volute: The water coming from the impeller goes into a curved funnel called a volute. The volute is used to reduce the speed of the flow of water while increasing its pressure. This helps to control the effects of the hydraulic pressure on the shaft.

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