How to Increase the Lifespan of Your Water Pump

So you’ve put your money into a Red Lion water pump expecting it to serve you forever.

While Red Lion is a popular and premium brand, you still need to practice preventive maintenance. Otherwise, the pump will start acting up – just like a neglected car on a reckless cross-country road trip.

All you need to do is give the pump some regular tender loving care and it will last for many years. That way, you’ll receive the full value of your investment.

Below are some tips for preventing water pump issues so you can extend the life of the device and keep it in tip-top shape.

Table of Contents

Properly Adjusting the Pressure Settings

First and foremost, set the pressure at the recommended PSI for your model. Too much pressure puts strain on the impeller and seals. The pressure settings also affect the flow of the water or liquid through your pump. Consult your owner’s manual or reach out to the customer service department where you buy your pump.

Prevent Problems with Waterlogging

Next, make sure to prevent waterlogging during cycling.

A check valve will prevent a backflow into the suction line. This will help avoid a water buildup in the pump housing and prevent wear and tear on the seals and bearings. Check also: Best Hot Water Recirculation Pump.

Clean the Water Pump of Debris and Sediment

Now comes the not-so-fun part. You need to clear out any debris or grime from the pump’s parts and pipes. Scrub and rinse away any accumulated algae or sediment.

Rinse all the parts thoroughly with a hose before putting them back in place. Clogs can decrease the flow rate and cause your motor to overheat.

Remember, any clogs will put a strain on the impeller and bearings.

How to Clean Your Water Pump

Below are the steps you’ll need to take to clean your water pump:

1. Remove the pump’s cover. Loosen the screws of the pump’s cover or loosen the cover by hand.

2. Loosen the impeller cap. Use a pair of pliers to loosen the impeller cap.

3. Use a clean rag to clean the parts one by one until you’ve removed all the clinging debris. Use a steel wool pad to polish the rod of the impeller using gentle strokes.

Note: Don’t use soap for cleaning if you use the pump for your drinking water supply as soap leaves a residue.

4. Reinstall the parts. Place the components back and secure them as they were. Tighten the cap. If necessary, use a pair of pliers.

5. Check the parts. Make sure all the components are tight and secure.

6. Replace the cap. Place the cap back on the water pump and fasten it.

7. Test the water pump’s operation. Once you’re done with cleaning the pump and putting back the parts and cap, check the flow of the water with a hose. If you have problems with the water flow, re-open the pump and re-check the placement of the parts. Check also: Fixing Hot Water Heater Leaking.

You should clean your water pump twice annually. If you’re not sure about disassembling or reassembling the pump, it’s best to have the pump serviced by a professional technician or plumber.

Cover the Pump to Protect It

Lastly, take measures to protect your pump from the outside elements. Consider installing a vented cover or housing during the winter when freezing temperatures can potentially damage the pump.

Sun exposure can also weaken the pump’s parts over time. A basic cover will shield your pump against weather conditions, keep critters from making it their new home, or protect it from your neighbor’s cat. Check also: Tankless Water Heater Maintenance.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you own a Red Lion water pump and want it to last as long as possible, you probably have some questions you want to ask. Below are some of the concerns you may want to address.

What Does PSI Mean?

PSI in water pump lingo means pressure per square inch. Too much PSI can harm any pump, including a Red Lion brand. Therefore, make sure the pressure gauge indicates the operating range for your model. If it’s set too high, adjust it accordingly.

What Leads to Problems with Waterlogging?

When a pump cycles on and off, it soon can become waterlogged. This problem diminishes a pump’s performance, thereby shortening the equipment’s lifespan as well.

Why Is the Check Valve Important?

A check valve, featured on the intake of the pump, prevents backflow problems from occurring. Run the pump for about two minutes to remove intermittent standing water.

Is It Really Necessary to Clean the Pipes Twice a Year?

To maintain your pump’s performance, you have to clean the pipes. Mineral deposits and other debris collect over time. These buildups block the pump’s intake filters, which causes the pump to work harder. Therefore, you need to check and clean the filters and pipes regularly.

What Is the Best Way to Protect a Water Pump?

If you install a water pump outside, you need to safeguard it from weather extremes, including snow, rain, and ups and downs in temperatures. Either a watertight cover or housing should be used for protection. Just by taking this simple step, you can double the lifespan of your pump.

One Final Note

If you’re good to your pump, it will reciprocate by providing you with a steady stream of water over several decades – as long as it’s a Red Lion model pump.

Zakynthos Neo

I am a multi-talented designer and contractor with over 10 years of experience in the field. I have a passion for creating beautiful, innovative spaces that reflect my clients’ needs and styles. My skills include architectural design, interior design, space planning, project management and construction supervision.