It is not out of place to sometimes overlook an everyday maintenance routine, especially when things appear to be running smoothly. However, maintenance is not an easy chore. The time it takes to do the same thing over and again can sometimes be put to good use elsewhere until your pump breaks down on you in the middle of perhaps the most important stuff.
Most facilities have multiple Pumps that perform various functions, functions that are part and parcel of the successful operation of such facilities. Therefore, a malfunction of one pump can shut down the entire facility.
Pumps to your home or business are like the steering wheel to a car. For efficiency, whether they are used for manufacturing processes, HVAC, or water treatment, a regular maintenance schedule should be implemented and followed to keep pumps running correctly.
This is why we have written this article to help you maintain your Pumps in easy steps without having to break a sweat. Or a leg.
Before You Begin…
- DETERMINE PUMP MAINTENANCE FREQUENCY
Here, we advise that you follow the initial guidelines from the manufacturer. Ask questions like:
Will lines or pumps have to be disabled?
How often do I need to run a routine check?
Select a time when the system is down and use common sense when deciding the time and frequency.
- OBSERVE AND FAMILIARIZE YOURSELF WITH THE SYSTEM
Please get to know your system and make a point to observe your pump while it is still running. Make a note of leaks, unusual sounds or vibrations and unusual odours. This will help you detect a malfunction faster.
- SAFETY FIRST
An essential health and safety rule is to shut down before performing your maintenance and systems check correctly. Proper isolation is essential not only for electrical systems but for hydraulic systems as well. You do not want to send some jolts of electricity to your body system for lack of meticulousness.
- MECHANICAL INSPECTION
Ensure mourning points are secure, check the mechanical seal and packing, inspect the pump flanges for leaks, check the couplings and clean filters.
- LUBRICATION
Friction is no good for anything, but especially your pump. Therefore, it would be best to adequately lubricate the motor and pump bearing per the manufacturer’s guidelines.
While you are at it, don’t go overboard with the oil, as over greasing can cause more damage than under greasing.
If your pump bearing has a vent cap, remove the cap and run the pump for 30 minutes before reinstalling the cap. This will allow excess grease to work its way out of the bearing.
- ELECTRICAL/MOTOR INSPECTION
Start with inspecting and ensuring all terminations are tight.
Move to the motor vents and windings for dust/dirt build-up and clean according to manufacturer’s guidelines.
Next, work your way to the starter/contractor for arcing, overheating, etc.
Finally, use a megohmmeter on the windings to check for insulation failure.
- REPLACE DAMAGED SEALS AND HOSES
Please do not continue indefinitely managing hoses, seals, or O-rings that show wear or damage; replace them immediately. Using a temporary rubber assembly lubricant will ensure a tight fit and prevent leaks or slips.
- CALL THE EXPERTS
Yes, when in doubt, don’t DIY. Instead, call a pump expert and save yourself the time, cost and embarrassment of failing woefully at another’s job.
At Pumphouse, we offer full-scale pump maintenance services guaranteed to keep your systems running efficiently all year round. If you have any pump failure or wish to run a maintenance check, please call us or email us to get started.
We also offer a wide range of Grundfos Pump and Pump accessories distributed nationwide. So chat us up today to discuss your pump needs.
