another osmolator problem

[CeeGee]

I have a older osmolator that has worked wonderfully for the 3 years I have had it.

Recently the pump has become very loud and seeing how it is generally accepted that you must replace the pump every now and again I proceeded to order a replacement from BRS.

I received the new pump yesterday evening and I installed last night before going to bed. Initially the pump cranked right up and began to work and was much more quiet than the previous "worn out" one.

After about 20 seconds the pump stopped running while the yellow light remained on. If I turn the unit off on my apex and then turn it back on I get the same effect. Pump comes on and works then about 20 seconds the pump stops sending water while the light remains on telling me the pump should be pumping water.

It acts as if the pump was running on a dying battery if that makes any sense. It works and then starts to slow down and eventually stops running altogether.

 

[rvitko]

Does the connector for the pump have any corrosion or is it possible in the past the black wire to the pump from the controller sat in water? This is a safety shut down from an overload, either the pump is defective or the wiring is not 100%. Another possiblity is an accidentally swapped power supply, be sure the power supply is the correct Tunze 5012.010, 11V, 1600mA.

 

[CeeGee]

Don't think there has been any water damage. It is mounted on the wall. The unit came with the huge style power adapter you guys used to use. I ordered the newer smaller one directly from you a few years ago.

 

[rvitko]

OK, I know what the issue is, if it had the older power supply it is from 2007 or before, these units limited the power to the pump at 800mA, the pumps made since 2008 need more power because at that time a second seal was added to increase the durability. The only way an old Osmolator can run a new pump is with the old power supply or one of 9V 800mA or more. With the 11V, the pump needs about 1000mA and cannot get it, the PTC which is a sort of circuit breaker is cutting the pump off, it heats up and slowly breaks contact so the pump slows to a stop.

 

[CeeGee]

Ooo k. So what do i need to do to fix it? Lol

 

[rvitko]

Find a 9V, 800mA or greater power supply at Radio Shack, it will need a 2.5 by 5mm tip positive adapter.

 

[CeeGee]

or if I still have it break out the old power brick?

 

[rvitko]

Yes, if it still works, switch it to 9V and it should solve the problem.

 

[CeeGee]

As usual thank you so much for your help Roger!

 

[rvitko]

Thank you, but I feel more like a bearer of bad news than a help in this case.

 

[CeeGee]

nah as long as I can get it going without having to buy a new unit I'm good. Extra cash has been non-existent lately and there is no way I can swing a total replacement.

 

[CeeGee]

got a new power adapter off of amazon. Hooked it up and nothing. The controller lights come on but the pump itself isn't doing anything.

 

[rvitko]

If the water level is low, does it show the yellow pump on light on the controller?

 

[CeeGee]

yes. The yellow pump on light comes on and stays on then eventually (I believe the too low light) starts blinking red and the yellow pump on light does not display.

 

[rvitko]

Are you sure the pump works? That would be consistent with a bad pump. You could test the pump with a 9V battery.

 

[CeeGee]

it worked the first day I got it. Then I reported the problem I began having to you the next day and it has taken me this long to get a replacement adapter.

Been "On my way to radio shack" but never quite got there so I just ordered one off of amazon.

if it is the pump can I get a replacement or what do I need to do?

I will test out the pump with a 9V battery if you can give me precise instructions on how to do so.

 

[rvitko]

You will just touch the wires to the 9V batteries terminals, if it does not work, we know for sure the pump is dead, if it works, it is a grey area, it could still be the pump, but it could be the controller as well. If you got a dud pump we would replace it under warranty.

 

[CeeGee]

I will check the pump (using a 9v) tonight as soon as I get in. Thank you for your help.

 

[CeeGee]

Tested the pump on a brand new 9v battery. Nothing.