One of the most frustrating problems to troubleshoot with a pump is when you’re getting a low flow rate or low suction. There are a lot of potential causes for this. However, before you call for pump repair there’s some basic troubleshooting you can do. This might identify the problem, and in some cases, you may be able to fix it yourself without paying for a pump repair crew.
Here are some of the most common causes.
Four Reasons Your Pump Has Low Flow
1 – You’re too far from the water source
The further away the pump is from the fluid source, the harder it’s going to have to work to move that fluid around. If the motor isn’t quite up to the task, this can lead to very slow flow.
The solution here is simply to either move the pump closer to the source or get a better motor.
2 – Intake obstructions
Probably the most common cause of flow problems is an obstruction in the line, which can easily happen at the source. The intake can easily become clogged by debris – not so much to block it up, but enough to impede the flow. Also, if you have a filter on the intake, the filter may be what’s clogged.
Either way, always check for obvious obstructions before calling for pump repair. You can almost always clear those yourself.
3 – Reduced line or pipe diameter
A pump needs its intake and flow pipes to be of a certain specified diameter to achieve its rated flow. If this becomes pinched, it will reduce the flow. This can easily happen if you have a basic hose that has pinched inwards on itself and might also happen if there’s a partial obstruction within the pipe or hose.
If possible, we recommend using rigid intake lines so that there’s no chance of them becoming pinched or collapsing on themselves.
- Motor issues
Sometimes the problem is the motor, rather than the pipes or intake. If the motor isn’t receiving enough electricity, for example, that will reduce its pumping power. If you’ve checked all the pipes and hoses for clogs and other obstructions, but can’t find any problems, the motor is probably the problem – and that will likely require an outside repair crew.
If you’re ever having problems with your pumps in Arizona, FloRight Pump & Controls is here for you! Contact us for help.
