General Information
Properly installed, Laguna Skimmer Filter Pumps provide powerful and uninterrupted water circulation and require minimal maintenance.
The pumps feature a magnetic-driven motor that delivers an outstanding amount of water flow while consuming relatively low energy. The motor unit and electrical connections are hermetically sealed with inert epoxy to ensure safe and lasting operation under extreme water conditions. The pumps are completely submersible and designed to run continuously in fresh water.
The Skimmer Filter Pumps are installed inside the pump chamber, located at the back of the Skimmer Filter. Water flowing inside this chamber is typically free of dirt and debris. However, in the unlikely event that some dirt or debris does get through the mechanical filters, the pump strainer that is attached over the input of the pump will block out any remnants.
Thermally Protected Pump
To prevent the motor from overheating if the pump accidentally runs dry, or if the rotor becomes blocked, the Thermal Protector will shut the pump off. To reset the Thermal Protector, remove from power source, allow the pump to cool, inspect pump and usage conditions, then reestablish power.
Choosing the Right Pump
Choosing the right pump depends on many factors, such as how much water is in the pond and how much work you are asking it to do. Will it circulate water only or will it pump water to a Laguna Filter Falls, UV clarifier, waterfall, and/or ornament? Answering these questions will determine the size of your pump. The more features you add, the more work you are asking your pump to do and, therefore, the more powerful it has to be. It's a good idea to choose one with a capacity slightly greater than your initial needs, especially since you may want to add to your system later.
Installing the Skimmer Filter Pump inside a Skimmer Filter
Warning: Always unplug or disconnect all appliances in the pond from the electrical supply before installing, repairing, maintaining, or handling the equipment in the water.
Important: To achieve the best pump operation, always use the largest bore hole possible. Avoid sharp bends in the hosing. Gradual curves are preferred.
Place the pump inside the chamber at the back of the Skimmer Filter, ensuring that the strainer is properly attached over the pump input. Run the electrical cord through one of the channels at the back of the Skimmer Filter. Run 1-1/4" or 1-1/2" tubing (not included) inside the chamber through the side opening of the Skimmer Filter. Attach the appropriate 1-1/4" or 1-1/2" Click-Fit Coupling (included) to the tubing and connect it to the output of the pump. Use a hose clamp to secure the connection. Run the other end of the tubing to the appropriate pond equipment. The pump chamber of the Laguna Skimmer Filter is sufficiently large enough to hold two pumps, if desired. Simply run the tubing through the other side opening of the Skimmer Filter and run the electrical cord through the channel located at the back of the unit.
TIP: Make sure that the length of tubing that you will connect to the pump output is long enough to perform the desired task, whether to circulate water to a connecting Filter Falls unit, or back into the pond, or to another piece of pond equipment.
NOTE: Use Silicone Lubricant to make hosing connections easier, and Hose Clamps to secure all hose output connections.
Pump Maintenance
Warning: Always unplug or disconnect all appliances in the pond from the electrical supply before installing, repairing, maintaining, or handling the equipment in the water.
Impeller Maintenance
Note: The pump motor includes a high quality ceramic shaft that provides long lasting, reliable performance when properly maintained. However, extreme care should be taken when handling the shaft during maintenance. Avoid dropping or pressing too hard on it to avoid breakage or hairline fractures, which may cause the shaft to snap during operation.
- Using a Phillips (cross-headed) screwdriver, unscrew the four screws on the Impeller Cover and remove the cover.
- Using a flathead screwdriver, carefully lift out the Impeller Assembly.
- Clean all components in clean water only. Use a small, non-abrasive brush if necessary. Do NOT use detergents or other chemical cleaners that can damage the pump and pollute the pond.
- Reassemble all components with care, making sure that the Impeller Bearing, Bushing, and O-ring are correctly placed at the bottom of the Impeller Well.
Replacing the Bushing and O-Ring
Though the Bushing is made from very resistant material, it is prone to wearing in certain conditions. For this reason, it is recommended that you replace it whenever the Impeller Unit is replaced. Follow the instructions provided with the Replacement Parts Package. Once you have replaced the Bushing and O-ring, reassemble all parts with care.
Troubleshooting:
Problem: Low Flow from Pump
- Check to see that the pump strainer is clean.
- Check tubing for blockages.
- Check to see that the pump is free of dirt and debris.
Problem: No Flow from Pump
- Check that the power supply is on.
- Check that the plug is correctly connected to the electrical receptacle/socket.
- Check tubing for blockages.
- Disconnect pump, remove impeller assembly and clean. Reconnect pump.
Winterizing the Pump
- Unplug and remove the pump from the pond.
- Thoroughly clean the pump, as per instructions.
- In addition, soak the Impeller Shaft and Impeller Well in white vinegar for 24 hours. Then rinse off with water. This procedure will remove calcium and other mineral deposits from the Impeller Shaft. If these deposits are not removed, they may cause the shaft to bind and break when the pump is started again.
- Lubricate all seals with silicone lubricant.
- Store the pump indoors for best results. Do not store the pump in below-freezing temperatures.
- When reopening your pond or water feature in the spring, submerge the pump in the pond for 1 hour prior to starting the pump.
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