Centrifugal Pump Vibration Troubleshooting

Reduce the vibrations in your centrifugal pump to prolong the pump's life.

Centrifugal pumps are commonly used in swimming pools and wells. A centrifugal pump relies on an impeller's rotation and the presence of water to function. The centrifugal pump's impeller constantly rotates at high speed in water during pump operation. If the impeller becomes damaged or worn, or no water is present in the pump casing, vibrations and other problems manifest in the pump. Eliminating vibrations emanating from a centrifugal pump involves properly filling the case of the pump with water and replacing the pump impeller if necessary.

Things You'll Need

• Water hose
• Screwdriver
• Wrench

Instructions

1. Shut off the centrifugal pump. Unscrew and remove the priming cap on top of the pump, or unscrew the lid of the pump if it is a pool model.

2. Fill the inner casing of the centrifugal pump with water from a water hose. Ensure the entire casing fills with water, then screw the priming cap or pump lid back into place. Turn the centrifugal pump on to complete the prime. Priming the centrifugal pump in this way eliminates vibrations caused by the pump sucking air instead of water.

3. Shut off the pump and unscrew the bolts or screws securing the motor and shaft to the portion of the pump holding water. Examine the impeller, a plastic wheel-shaped device installed on the shaft, for cracks or other signs of damage. A chipped, warped or worn impeller wobbles or grinds against the pump walls and causes vibrations.

4. Place a replacement impeller on the centrifugal pump shaft. Secure the motor to the wet portion of the pump with the bolts or screws. Installing a new impeller into the centrifugal pump eliminates vibrations caused by grinding or defects in the impeller.

Tips & Warnings

• Check the pump's impeller monthly for defects or wear and replace it if needed to keep vibrations in the pump to a minimum.

References

• Globalspec: Centrifugal Pump Info