How to Troubleshoot Star Submersible Pumps
Star Water Systems is a division of the Zoeller Pump Company. Zoeller began manufacturing pumps in 1939 and they manufacture a wide range of water systems, including sump pumps, irrigation pumps, water well pumps and reverse osmosis systems. Before calling for a service technician, run through a few potential problems. These could include air locks, clogged intake screens, drop-line leaks and worn components. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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1
Stop and start the pump several times if the system becomes air locked and the pump operates but delivers little water. Wait a few seconds between cycles.
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2
Check to see if the water level in the well is too low for the pump capacity. Restrict the flow of the pump output. Wait for the pump to recover and start the pump again.
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3
Examine the valve on the discharge line to make sure the arrow indicating the direction of flow is pointing in the right direction. Reverse the valve if it is pointing backwards.
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4
Examine the intake screen on the pump for clogs or debris. Clean out the screen. Make sure the pump is installed at least 10 feet or more above the bottom of the well.
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5
Reduce the setting on the pressure switch to see if the pump shuts off. If it does, pull out the pump to check for worn parts. Abrasives in the water can erode the impeller casing and other close-clearance parts. The impeller is the rotor-like component that forces the water into the pump. Replace any worn components.
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6
Check the pressure switch for damage from arcing if the pump will not turn off. The switch may have become "welded" in the closed position. Examine the points and other parts of the switch for defects. Clean the points with a Q-tip and replace the switch if necessary.
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7
Raise the pump and check the line for leaks if the pump runs continuously and will not turn off. Replace sections of the pipe if necessary.
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8
Check to see if the pump is sand-locked if the fuses blow while the pump is in operation. Sand could have become wedged in the impeller, causing the rotor to lock. Pull up the pump and clean away the sand. Ensure that the sand has settled in the well before replacing the pump.
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9
Check the electrical panel if the pump does not operate at all. Look for tripped breakers and blown fuses. Reset breakers and replace blown fuses. Always replace fuses with others of the same amperage rating.
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