Trash Pump Maintenance Guide
Whether your trash pump is installed at a construction site or in your basement, it will require regular maintenance! However, for the most part, this isn’t a costly or time-consuming affair. A routine check barely takes more than a few minutes and can save you thousands on repairs.
Maintaining a trash pump is like maintaining any other machine. You’d need to make note of the performance while it is in operation and inspect its key components while the pump is off. For expert maintenance including repairs or part replacement, visit Synergy Equipment in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. To help you keep your trash pump in top condition, here’s a list of simple maintenance tasks that you can follow.
Read the Owner’s Manual for Routine Checks
The owner’s manual will carry a detailed maintenance schedule. Read the manual thoroughly to understand when and how you need to confirm those routine maintenance checks. While some of them would need you to monitor the pump quarterly, others may need a semi-yearly or yearly maintenance check. To be on the safer side, some of the tips shared in this list can be periodically done weekly or once every two weeks to make sure that the pump is in good shape.
Pay Attention to Unusual Noises or Odors
One of the simplest maintenance tasks you can do is to listen carefully to your machine and try identifying unusual noises emanating from the pump. Loud clunking or crunching sounds can be the result of worn bearings, which could lead to serious damage of the pump. Strange odors also hint that all’s not well with the pump’s functioning and that you need to take a closer look at it.
Check for Overheating, Leaks, and Corrosion
Make sure to frequently check your trash pump for leaks and corrosion. Rusting on the casing can affect other components of the pump and, when not tackled promptly, can lead to costly and extensive repairs. A leak in the piping system will lessen the pump’s performance and discharge output.
Lubricate the pump and retain the appropriate grease needed for the motor to perform well. Refer to your manual’s instructions to avoid over or under greasing the pump’s bearings.
Inspect the Pump for Clogging
The presence of debris or larger-than-expected solids can easily clog the pump’s valves. If the pump isn’t delivering like it used to, check it for clogs. Removing the stuck pieces can de-clog the valves and get the pump back to its top-performing speed.
Check Oil Level in the Fuel Tank
One of the best practices of maintaining a well-performing pump is to regularly check the oil level in the fuel tank. Replace the oil every 3- 4 months. If there’s contamination, change the oil immediately.
Annual Trash Pump Checks
Other than regularly monitoring the pump, follow the annual check schedule, too. This can take about 2-3 hours to complete and you may want an expert to do these checks for you. As an annual check, make note of the pump’s capacity, pressure, and power requirements. Run a spare pump to observe the performance and output. In the meantime, disassemble the internal parts of the pump and examine the alignment of the bolts and shaft. Check if the impellers, valves, rubber parts, and other parts have worn out. You may need an urgent replacement part. Coating the rough surfaces can also be done during the annual check.
Regular inspections and maintenance ensure that the installed pump lasts longer and performs optimally. Spare a few minutes to perform these tasks to prevent small issues before they turn into major ones.
If you need professional maintenance, connect with our service experts at Synergy Equipment. We also have an excellent selection of trash pumps to buy or rent. We are in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina – visit us at your convenience!