why does this happen with return pumps

if the impeller has two bumps like this, would that be the cause of my problem?

 

Its kinda like a locked up starter on car, just tap it a little with the power running(that is, if you can here the pump trying to work) Use a small hammer and gently tap on the pump housing when you plug it in. Also, be very sure to rinse with freshwater after use, salt can be a real bugger sometimes.

btw sorry but i dont know what those bumps are.

 

Yep that looks like the Impeller magnet is warped or bubbled and that would stop it from turning. Your most likely will need to buy a replacement impeller. You might be able to sand it smooth and get it to work for you.

I always take mine apart and clean it and put all the parts in the box when storing pumps. Then if I ever need it I just reassemble it before using it.

 

i need to get a backup pump..........

 

AAahhhh, Hell No!! That doesn't look like a problem at all Dingo!!

 

I am going to classify that impeller as "not good to bad"

 

If you plan on storing a magnetic pump like that for an extended period, I would recommend you remove the impeller from the housing. those are very powerful electromagnets and fro the looks of it, it those forces broke it apart and caused tthe bubble. what brand of pump? the cheaper ones are much more prone to this than the good ones. Looks like that magnet was wrapped in plastic.

 

What kind of return pump is it?

 

looks like some saltwater is getting under the magnet and causing rust bubbles or im guessing thats what those are.

 

My RIOs always gave fits that way. I would shut it off to do water change and it wouldn't start back up. I would have to really bang them or take a thin screw driver and repeatedly try to spin the impellar. This got me thinking about short power outages while I wouldn't be home and distubed me. I finally bought a Mag 7 and never had that problem again.