How to Maintain an Irrigation Pump

How to Maintain an Irrigation Pump

Irrigation pump maintenance is crucial. Regular maintenance ensures reliable operation during the busy farming season and extends its lifespan. Maintenance can be summarized as follows: "Daily inspection, regular maintenance, and thorough decommissioning."

The following are specific maintenance points:

1. Inspection before daily use (spend a few minutes before each startup)

Checking the seals: Inspect the pump's packing or mechanical seal for abnormal dripping. A small amount of dripping is normal (for cooling purposes), but if the water forms a line, tighten or replace it.

Checking the lubricating oil: For pumps with independent bearing housings, check that the oil level is within the standard line in the sight glass and that the oil is clear. If the oil becomes cloudy or black, replace it immediately.

Manual cranking: Before starting the pump, manually rotate the pump shaft to feel for smooth, even movement and any binding or grinding noises. This can help identify potential problems in advance.

2. Monitoring during operation (listening, observing, and touching)

Listening to the sound: The operating sound should be smooth and even. If any abnormal vibration or banging sounds are detected, stop the pump immediately for inspection. Check for vibration and leakage: Observe the pump body for excessive vibration and check for leaks.

Touch the bearing area with the back of your hand to feel for any abnormally high temperature (if it's hot, it's abnormal).

III. Regular Maintenance (performed by hours of use or season)

Cleaning and Anti-clogging:

Regularly clean the water inlet filter to prevent debris such as weeds and plastic bags from entering the pump and damaging the impeller.

If pumping river or pond water, which contains sand, check the impeller and pump casing for wear. Replace any severe wear promptly.

Replace the lubricant: Regularly replace the lubricant in the bearing housing according to the instructions in the manual.

Inspect wearing parts:

Seals: Packing and mechanical seals are wearing parts and should be replaced if leakage increases.

Bearings: If noise and vibration increase after a period of operation, the bearings may be worn and need to be replaced. IV. Long-term Storage After the Season (Very Important!)

After the irrigation season ends, irrigation pumps that are not used for an extended period must be properly stored:

Drain thoroughly: Completely drain the pump casing, impeller chamber, and pipes to prevent ice buildup and cracking in the winter.

Clean and prevent rust: Wipe away any water stains on the pump surface and apply butter or rust-inhibiting oil to unpainted metal surfaces (such as shafts and bolts).

Store properly: Disassemble the pump and store it in a dry, clean room. Ideally, cover it with a cover to protect it from dust.

Simple Summary: Maintaining an irrigation pump is like caring for an old friend:

Before work: Stretch it out (turn the pump) and check its condition.

While working: Pay close attention to its "breathing" and "body temperature" (listen to the sound and feel the temperature).

After work: Give it a bath, clean it, apply oil, and store it in a comfortable location.

Follow these simple steps to ensure your irrigation pump lasts longer and is more reliable.