How to Extend the Life of Your Pump: Maintenance Tips
Pumps are critical to the operation of farms, industrial sites, water treatment facilities, and everything in between. But like any mechanical system, they need consistent care to perform at their best — and avoid costly breakdowns.
At Global Pump Solutions, we’re big believers in preventative maintenance. Whether you’re running a bore pump on the farm or a high-output VSD unit in an industrial plant, here’s how to keep your pump running reliably for years to come.
- Know Your Pump — And Its Purpose
Start by identifying the pump model, flow rate, pressure requirements, and any manufacturer-specific guidelines. Each pump is built for a specific purpose — using it outside of spec can dramatically shorten its lifespan.
Quick checks:
Is the pump oversized or undersized for the job?
Is it rated for the liquid being pumped (chemicals, wastewater, hot fluids)?
Is your suction pipe correctly sized and free from restrictions?
🧠 Tip: Keep a spec sheet or sticker on each pump for quick reference during inspections.
- Create a Maintenance Schedule (and Stick to It)
Routine checks are essential. Just like you service a car based on mileage, pumps need service based on hours run or calendar time.
Frequency | Tasks to Perform |
---|---|
Weekly | Visual check for leaks, noise, vibrations |
Monthly | Check seals, bearings, electrical connections |
Quarterly | Clean filters and strainers, inspect impeller and housing |
Annually | Replace wear parts, flush the system, test motor draw and efficiency |
📦 Ask us about ready-to-go Service Kits for GPS and compatible models.
- Prevent Dry Running & Cavitation
Running a pump dry — without fluid — is one of the quickest ways to destroy seals, bearings, and impellers. Cavitation (where vapor bubbles implode inside the pump) can do even worse.
To prevent this:
Always prime your pump before startup
Check your suction conditions (NPSH available)
Use float switches or pressure sensors to monitor fluid levels
Avoid sharp suction elbows or undersized pipes
💡 Some of our Premium Line pumps come with dry-run protection and anti-cavitation features built-in.
- Inspect Seals and Bearings Often
Seals and bearings take the brunt of wear in any pump. Catching a worn seal early can prevent catastrophic leaks or water ingress into your motor.
Look for:
Moisture around the seal area
Noisy or grinding bearings
Overheating in the pump casing
Replace these parts before failure — not after.
🛒 We stock OEM and aftermarket seal kits for the NGX, MXH, MXP, T3 and more.
- Keep the Motor Healthy
Even if the pump side is fine, a motor running hot or off-spec can still take your system down.
To prevent motor failure:
Install thermal overload protection
Keep vent holes clear and motor area clean
Monitor for increased amp draw or overheating
Consider a VSD (Variable Speed Drive) to avoid starting surges
🔌 Our VSD-ready Premium Line pumps are ideal for both agriculture and heavy-duty industry.
- Need Help? We Offer Servicing Advice & Spare Parts
At Global Pump Solutions, we don’t just sell pumps — we help you keep them running.
From seal kits to impellers, motors to maintenance plans, our team is here to help.
🔧 Contact us to discuss your pump model and get a free maintenance checklist.
Supplying Reliable Pump Solutions Across NZ & AU
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