Tunze Osmolator 5017 pump problem?

[Carty]

I noticed that my auto top off reservoir was full but my water level was low. Trying to figure out why it wasn't working, I cleaned the optical sensor (it's clean), checked the mag shut off float valve (it moves freely) and then started trying to get it to turn on. First I simply unplugged the unit and plugged it back in. The light goes from "water too low" to "pump on" and then after about 5 seconds, the green "level" light flashes about 5 times and then goes away. About 10 minutes later, the unit goes from "pump on" to "water too low".

So it sounds like the unit is telling the pump to turn on and then turning it off after that 10 minute timer.

I looked a little closer and noticed I could hear a slight humming coming from the pump, but the impeller wasn't turning and I couldn't get it to turn manually with the unit off. So it sounds like it's getting power but maybe it's stuck? Everything looks clean and I now have it soaking in vinegar. Everything is just under 1 year old. Is there anything else I can try?

There has never been anything but RODI water in the reservoir and there is no light in the sump where the sensors are.

 

[reefwiser]

I would replace the pump. I always keep a spare pump in my fish room storage.


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[rvitko]

Yes the pump has failed, if you forward a copy of your receipt to Tunze at sbcglobal dot net, we will send a new pump.

 

[Carty]

The receipt is long gone, but no big deal - glad to have it sorted out. New pump on the way!

Thanks for the replies.

 

[Carty]

Something must have been wrong with the original pump from the get go. The new pump is installed and is working much better than the old one ever did. Significantly more flow. Thanks again for the help!

 

[rvitko]

I have encountered that before, the impeller is press fitted on the shaft and can be too loose so it slips and eventually breaks free.