Clean your Aquascape pump when mineral scale begins accumulating on the impeller, rotor assembly, impeller sleeve, or inside the pump chamber. Scale is common in areas with hard water and can reduce water flow, restrict impeller movement, and affect pump performance.
How do I know if my pump has scale buildup?
Common signs of mineral scale buildup include:
- Reduced water flow after cleaning the intake screen.
- The pump hums but produces little or no water.
- The impeller becomes difficult to rotate or remove.
- White, gray, or chalky deposits appear inside the pump.
- Pump performance gradually decreases without an obvious blockage.
Before cleaning for scale, check the intake screen, pump cage, plumbing, and impeller for debris or restrictions.
What should I use to remove mineral scale?
Aquascape Pump Cleaner Maintenance Solution — Item #91143 is recommended for removing mineral deposits and buildup from Aquascape pumps.
The solution helps remove:
- Mineral scale and calcium deposits.
- Biofilm.
- Other accumulated deposits on pump components.
Follow the cleaning instructions provided with the product.
How do I clean mineral scale from my pump?
- Disconnect electrical power before removing or servicing the pump.
- Remove the pump from its operating location.
- Clean debris from the intake screen or pump cage.
- Open the pump chamber according to the instructions for your specific pump model.
- Carefully remove the impeller or rotor assembly if the pump is designed to allow removal.
- Inspect the impeller, rotor, sleeve, and internal pump chamber for mineral deposits.
- Clean the affected components using Aquascape Pump Cleaner Maintenance Solution according to its instructions.
- Gently loosen remaining deposits with a soft-bristled brush or non-abrasive sponge.
- Rinse the components thoroughly with clean water.
- Reassemble the pump according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Return the pump to its proper operating location before reconnecting electrical power.
Important: Pump disassembly procedures vary by model. Do not force the impeller or remove components that are not designed for routine maintenance.
What cleaning chemicals and tools should I avoid?
Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning tools that could damage pump components.
Do not use:
- Strong acids, including muriatic or hydrochloric acid.
- Solvents such as acetone, paint thinner, or gasoline.
- Highly concentrated bleach or caustic cleaners.
- Wire brushes, steel wool, metal scrapers, or aggressive abrasive pads.
Use a cleaning product approved for the specific pump and a soft-bristled brush or non-abrasive sponge.
How often should I inspect my pump for scale?
There is no universal cleaning interval. Inspect your pump more frequently when:
- The water contains high mineral concentrations.
- White or chalky deposits form quickly.
- Water flow decreases between regular maintenance intervals.
- Scale repeatedly develops around the impeller or inside the pump chamber.
Remove light mineral deposits before they become severe enough to restrict impeller movement or interfere with pump operation.
What if cleaning does not restore pump performance?
If removing mineral scale does not restore normal operation:
- Check the intake screen and pump cage for obstructions.
- Inspect plumbing for restrictions or blockages.
- Examine the impeller, rotor, sleeve, and shaft for wear or damage.
- Confirm that the pump is receiving an adequate water supply.
A worn or damaged impeller may require replacement. If the problem continues, additional pump troubleshooting may be necessary.