How to Repair an Aerator Motor

Aerators increase the health of ponds.

Aeration is the one of the most beneficial additions that you can make to a backyard pond or lake. The inherent increase in oxygen from top to bottom yields several positive results including increased fish habitat, reduction of algae blooms through nutrient reduction and a decrease in muck or sludge accumulation on the bottom of the pond. To make sure that your pond stays healthy, you must ensure the aerator motor and pump, also known as an air compressor, that provides the air stays in good shape as well. Follow these guidelines to keep your aeration system in optimal operating condition.

Things You'll Need

• Gloves
• Ratcheting wrench 7/16"
• Socket set w/ 3/8" adapter
• Utility knife
• Carbon vane set
• Gasket
• Air filter

Instructions

1. Disconnect the motor from the power if it is still running. It will be very hot to the touch and can easily burn the skin. Allow at least 30 minutes to cool before handling the motor. Don a pair of heavy-duty gloves and remove the compressor from its enclosure.

2. Use a 7/16-inch ratcheting wrench to remove the muffler box from the compressor end of the unit. It is not necessary to remove the outlet valve assembly or inlet check valve assembly.

3. Use a 3/8-inch socket wrench and remove the end plate from the compressor. Once removed, scrape off the old gasket with a utility knife. The gasket will be very hard from its extended exposure to very high temperatures. Ensure a smooth, clean surface on which to replace the new gasket.

4. Remove the four carbon vanes from the rotor housing. Replace them with the new vane set ensuring that the leading edge matches the shape within the rotor housing.

5. Replace the end plate on the motor and tighten down the previously removed bolts. Place the new gasket on top of the end plate.

6. Replace the muffler box on top of the end plate without moving the gasket. It is critical that the gasket does not extrude from the sides. Once lined up, insert the bolt initially removed from the muffler box and tighten.

7. Replace the air filter. This is very important to the operating life of the pump as it must be able to easily pull in clean atmospheric air which it does through this air filter. Replace the check valve.

Tips & Warnings

• Never do work on a motor that is still connected to power. Dangerous electrical shock could inflict serious injury.

References

• Air Compressor Repair and Maintenance