Sep 27, 2014
David Podracky
wrote
I have a DC3500 purchased in 12/2013. I just starting using it in June, and it has been great for 2 months. Typically, I run the unit at the level 4 setting due to water noise in my overflow and such. Lately, I've noticed that I have to run it at higher levels (5 or 6) to get the same flow as I was previously seeing at level 4. In addition, the last two times I cut power to the pump, the unit was not restarting properly. The pump seemed to start spinning the impeller a little, then make some minor clicking noise, stop pumping, then try again in a few seconds. Both times it did this it eventually started correctly after much unplugging and plugging, and playing with the level settings. The second time, once it started it was a rather squeaky/noisy start, but it is running now. I did pull the pump out earlier to look at the impeller. I didn't see any obstructions and it seemed to be spinning freely. Please help.
On a second note, I've noticed there is a small spark when I plug the power cable into the controller. Is this normala fire hazard?
On a second note, I've noticed there is a small spark when I plug the power cable into the controller. Is this normala fire hazard?
Reply
5 Answers
Sep 29, 2014
Jeremy Rykiel
agent
wrote
When plugging in any power supply into a socket including the one on you DC pump you should make sure everything is hook up from the pump all the way to the power supply. Have you soaked the pump in a vinegar water solution?
Sep 29, 2014
David Podracky
wrote
I have not soaked the pump in vinegar water, but it has only been running since June. There does not appear to be much build up on any components.
The spark I'm seeing is at the power to controller interface. I pull that plug because there is no power switch on my model.
Thanks for the reply.
The spark I'm seeing is at the power to controller interface. I pull that plug because there is no power switch on my model.
Thanks for the reply.
Sep 29, 2014
Jeremy Rykiel
agent
wrote
You should pull the power from the wall outlet. This is not only safer for the product but for you as well. Not wise to have live open power near water. Buildup around the magnet can cause some performance loss. Also is there anything that could have changed or may be blocking the output plumbing to cause added head pressure?
Nov 17, 2014
David Podracky
wrote
Hi Jeremy,
I cleaned the pump like you suggested. It had some minor algae/detritus build up, but nothing serious (calcareous). No blockages were found in the system. Since I last posted, it has been running erratic (similar to described originally), and tonight it began making a loud squealing noise followed by complete loss of pressure. I cleaned the pump again tonight (again, no serious build up), and restarted it. It has continued to do the same squealing / loss of pressure sequence periodically (every 30 minutes or so).
Is it possible to initiate an exchange? Please, let's do so quickly as this is the only pump between my display and refugium.
The spark has not been a problem, as I have taken your advice and been unplugging at the wall.
Thanks for your assistance.
I cleaned the pump like you suggested. It had some minor algae/detritus build up, but nothing serious (calcareous). No blockages were found in the system. Since I last posted, it has been running erratic (similar to described originally), and tonight it began making a loud squealing noise followed by complete loss of pressure. I cleaned the pump again tonight (again, no serious build up), and restarted it. It has continued to do the same squealing / loss of pressure sequence periodically (every 30 minutes or so).
Is it possible to initiate an exchange? Please, let's do so quickly as this is the only pump between my display and refugium.
The spark has not been a problem, as I have taken your advice and been unplugging at the wall.
Thanks for your assistance.
Nov 18, 2014
Carlos
agent
wrote
Please use the "Submit a Ticket" on the right and be sure to include proof of purchase and the serial number on the back of the pump.