If the pump in your AquaGarden Mini Pond Kit or AquaGarden Tabletop Fountain Kit has stopped working, is humming without pumping water, or has reduced water flow, the issue may be caused by a low water level, clogged pump intake, trapped air, or a power connection issue.
Follow the troubleshooting steps below to identify and resolve the problem.
Step 1: Check the power supply
- Verify that the electrical outlet is receiving power.
- Check that the ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) has not tripped.
- Make sure the pump is securely plugged in.
- For the AquaGarden Tabletop Fountain Kit: Verify that the pump is fully connected to the controller and that the pump switch is turned on.
Step 2: Check the water level
- Make sure the container has enough water for the pump to operate properly.
- If the water level is low, refill the container with fresh water before restarting the pump.
- Ensure the pump is fully submerged during operation.
Important: Running the pump without sufficient water can cause overheating and premature wear. Short periods of dry operation may not cause permanent damage, but repeated or extended dry running can lead to pump failure.
Step 3: Clean the pump and intake filter
Debris, algae, and other buildup can restrict water flow or prevent the pump from operating properly.
AquaGarden Mini Pond Kit:
- Disconnect the pump from its power source.
- Remove the low-suction attachment from the pump intake.
- Gently separate the attachment into two pieces to access the sponge filter.
- Remove the sponge and rinse it thoroughly with fresh water.
- Reassemble the attachment and reconnect it to the pump.
AquaGarden Tabletop Fountain Kit:
- Disconnect the pump from its power source.
- Remove and clean the pump's intake screen and sponge filter.
- If necessary, disconnect the tubing from the bottom of the waterfall filter and slide the pump away from the waterfall to remove it.
- Open the pump's water chamber cover to access the impeller (the internal spinning component).
- Clean the impeller and internal pump assembly using white vinegar or Aquascape Pump Cleaner Maintenance Solution.
- Reassemble the pump and reconnect it to the waterfall filter.
Step 4: Check for trapped air and restart the pump
If the pump is humming but not moving water, it may be receiving power but unable to circulate water due to debris, low water levels, or trapped air.
- Make sure the pump and intake components are clean.
- Confirm the pump is properly connected to the waterfall filter.
- Refill the container with enough water to fully submerge the pump.
- Restart the pump and check whether normal water flow returns.
What if the pump still does not work?
If the pump continues to hum without moving water, does not turn on, or fails to restart after completing these steps, the pump may be damaged or require replacement.
If you need additional assistance, please submit a request through our Customer Care contact form.