Maintain Pump(s)

      The pumps and burner are the components of the system requiring the most maintenance. Pump alignment is critical for maximum service life and should be checked and adjusted when the system is cold, at operating temperatures and on a regular schedule. Pumps should be inspected frequently for leaks, unusual noise and overheating. Frequent seal failure (more than once a year) is often a sign of particulate build up in the system and this should be checked as described above. Pressure gauges at the pump suction and discharge are valuable for troubleshooting. A reduced inlet pressure could indicate a strainer blockage or low fluid level, as usually the pump suction is connected to the system expansion tank to provide the necessary suction head to avoid cavitation. Unsteady readings may indicate cavitation that can quite quickly cause internal damage to a pump.