Tunze Osmolator stopped pumping :(

[lakee911]

I've had my Tunze Osmolator now for 2.5 years. Today I noticed the low water level. No alarm, but the pump is running and just not pumping anything.

It was pumping 10 feet or so of head just fine since I bought it. Now it seems to only be able to pump about 3 feet or so and it doesn't have much pressure.

Is it time to replace the pump? Just order from website-done deal?

Thx,
Jason

 

[Aquadepot]

Check for blockages, I think you are up for a new pump thats a reasonable life for this style of pump.

 

[lakee911]

Did check for blockages. None to be found. I figured so much and I've ordered one. Thanks.

Jason

 

[lakee911]

New pump came in. Works like a charm. I'm glad that I got this replaced before I went on vacation or something.

What exactly wears out on this pump?

Thanks

 

[rvitko]

It is a small bilge pump for all practical purposes and there is a DC motor not unlike the little project motors you probably used in junior high and high school for science projects. This motor is housed inside the top and the shaft goes through a rubber seal and spins an impeller. They can fail because the impeller come loose or water penetrates the seal and ruins the motor. They are usually good for 2-3 years with the newer ones as they have a double seal, the older ones typically lasted 1-2 years.