Pond Pump: Troubleshooting Guide

A pond pump is the heart of your pond's ecosystem, keeping the water clean and oxygenated. When it stops working, it's easy to panic and assume you need a new one. But before you rush out and buy a replacement, a few simple checks can often get your pump running again.

We've been helping pond owners with pump issues for over 40 years. Our expert team has compiled this guide to help you troubleshoot common issues and restore your pond to full health.

Table of Contents:

• Is Your Pump Receiving Water?
• Is the Impeller Damaged?
• Is the Pond Pump Air-Locked?
• Is the Pump's Electricity Supply Working?
• Could Your Pond Pump Be Overheating?
• Is Your Pond Pump Making a Funny Noise?
• Pond Pump FAQs

Is Your Pump Receiving Water?

One of the most common reasons a pond pump fails is that it's blocked and can't pull in water. Debris, such as blanketweed, leaves, and stones, can easily clog the pump's intake.

What to do:

1. Unplug the pump from the power supply.
2. Carefully remove the pump from the pond.
3. Strip the pump down by removing the pump casing, impeller housing, and the impeller itself.
4. Inspect each part for blockages or damage.
5. Clean everything thoroughly and reassemble the pump.

Regular cleaning can prevent most of these issues and extend the pump's lifespan.

Is the Impeller Damaged?

The impeller is a small fan-like part that spins to push water through the pump. It's a common point of failure.

How to tell if a pond pump impeller is broken:

• Inspect it: Look for any obvious signs of damage, like cracks or broken blades.
• Test the clutch: Hold the magnetic part of the impeller and try to spin the blades. If they spin freely for more than one full rotation, the clutch has likely failed, and you'll need a new impeller.

Luckily, a damaged impeller can often be replaced without buying a new pump. It’s also recommended to replace the impeller every two years to prevent any issues that could cause your pump to stop working.

Check out our range of pond pump spares and see if we can help you save money whilst getting your pond pump back to full health.

Is the Pond Pump Air-Locked?

An air lock happens when air gets trapped inside the pump, preventing water from flowing. An air-locked pump is a common issue with new pumps or after a water change.

How to prime a pond pump: Gently shake or tilt the pump while it's submerged. Doing this helps release any trapped air bubbles. Once the air is released, the pump should start working again.

Is the Pump's Electricity Supply Working?

Before you assume the pump is broken, check the power supply. Faulty wiring or a tripped breaker can be the cause.

What to do:

1. Safety First: Turn off the power supply at the main circuit breaker before you touch any wiring.
2. Check the outlet: If you have an outdoor power box, check to see if the breaker has tripped.
3. Inspect the cord: Look for any cuts, splits, or damage to the power cord leading to the pump. A damaged cord is a safety risk and should be replaced.
4. Listen to the motor: A struggling or humming noise might mean the motor isn't getting enough power.

If you’re using any type of extension cord, this can often cause irregular power and could be causing issues for your pump.

Could Your Pond Pump Be Overheating?

It’s essential with a submersible pump to ensure it is entirely submerged in the pond water, as this keeps it cool and prevents overheating. When not fully submerged, most pond pumps will continue to run, despite not being surrounded by water, which can cause overheating and potentially damage the pump more permanently.

Why does my pond pump keep stopping? One common reason is overheating. If the water level in your pond drops, the pump might not be fully submerged. Most pumps have a thermal cut-off switch that will turn the pump off until it cools down.

What to do:

• Unplug the pump and submerge it in cold water for about 30 minutes. Doing this will allow it to cool down and hopefully reset.
• Ensure the pump is always fully submerged in the water. Check your pond's water level regularly, especially during hot weather.

 

Is Your Pond Pump Making a Funny Noise?

If your pump is working but making an unusual noise, it's often a sign of a problem.

Common reasons for strange noises:

• Blockage: As mentioned, debris can clog the impeller, causing a rattling or grinding sound.
• Vibrations: The pump may be vibrating against the pond liner or a nearby stone. Try repositioning the pump or placing a foam mat underneath it to absorb the vibrations.
• Worn impeller: A worn-out impeller can cause a loud, rattling noise even without a blockage.

Pond Pump FAQs

Why has my pond pump stopped working? 

If you’re pond pump has stopped working, it's usually due to one of the issues covered above: a blockage, a damaged impeller, an air lock, a power supply problem, or overheating.

How to fix a pond pump? 

The steps depend on the problem. Start by checking for a power supply issue, then inspect the pump for blockages and damage to the impeller. Cleaning and reassembling the pump often resolves the problem.

Why does my pond pump keep tripping out? 

A pump that keeps tripping the breaker usually indicates a more serious electrical issue. It could be a short circuit in the pump motor or a faulty power cord. In this case, it is best to consult with a qualified electrician.

How to stop a pond pump from clogging up? 

Regular maintenance is key. Clean the pump casing and impeller every few weeks, especially during seasons when there's more debris, like autumn. You can also install a pre-filter cage to block larger debris.

Why is my pond pump not pumping water? 

The most likely cause is an airlock or a blockage. Check for both of these issues first. If that doesn't work, the impeller may be broken, or the pump motor could be failing.

Why does my pond pump keep floating? 

A floating pump is usually caused by an airlock or a clogged intake cage. When the cage gets clogged with debris, it can trap air inside, making the pump buoyant and causing it to float to the surface. Clean the cage and gently shake the pump to release any trapped air.

Time for a new pond pump? Shop the range at Pond Planet

Our guide covers all the basics for maintaining the health of your pond pump, helping you avoid costly repairs from common pond pump mishaps. However, if our troubleshooting guide doesn’t help fix the problem and you’ve reached the end, then, sadly, it may be time for an upgrade.

Thankfully, at Pond Planet, we’ve made this stressful time a bit easier by offering a comprehensive range of pond pumps. Choose the best option for your pond today and get ready for a new, fully functioning pump that will have your pond back to its best health.