What do you do when mag pumps get stuck?

[achilles1]

Over the years, I have had various magnetic drive pumps or power heads get stuck and after outages or whatever. When this happens what do you do? Replace the impeller? The shaft? Or, the entire pump?

thanks

 

[Stanton]

Good question...I just tap mine on the side of the sump after a power outtage to start it back up..

 

[jmait769]

I take mine apart and clean it. Usually the heat from the pump causes calcium to build up on the magnet. I had a QO 4000 running externally and it would not restart due to this. I use a diluted mixture of water and muriatic acid I get at Lowes. You can also use vinegar. Melev has a good page on cleaning them also: http://www.melevsreef.com/magdrive.html

Jay

 

[mg426]

I use Vinegar on mine. I have a spare pump that I switch out. Just let the pump/impeller sit overnight in vinegar and you will be Aok.

 

[SDguy]

I run it in vinegar overnight. Just make sure to have a lid on the bucket, since the vinegar can produce aerosols, which irritate the respiratory system.

 

[Entropy]

I clean mine by hand usually with vinegar. It doesn't take much cleaning to get them running like new again.

 

[achilles1]

At which point do you know if a pump is ruined or not from being stuck?

 

[Rouselb]

Soaking it in vinegar for a day, that will do the trick. Most manufactures of submersible pumps recommend the pump be removed and soaked to remove cal build up. I have a couple of mags, and they recommend soaking.

 

[SALT WATER CRAZ]

I tap them to get them going till i have time to clean them.

 

[markandkristen]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10551961#post10551961 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by achilles1
At which point do you know if a pump is ruined or not from being stuck?

on my sedra 5000 i am having to replace the impellar or mainley just the magnet part. it has started to swell.

if you are having a swelling magnet it might need replacing as well.

i guess on a mag drive if its around 5-7 years it might be worth replacing. i dont know the longetively of these pumps. i know little giants have been known to run 15 years plus according to my local fish store as long as thier oiled regularly.