The Aquapro AP4800 is a pond and fountain pump designed to create vibrant water features in your backyard. This pump is engineered with advanced technology to provide reliable and high-quality performance for various water applications, including fountains and water features, whether used submersibly or in-line. Its robust design and user-friendly features make it an excellent choice for maintaining a healthy and aesthetically pleasing aquatic environment.
Function Description
The Aquapro AP4800 operates as a magnetically driven centrifugal pump. This design allows it to efficiently move water, creating dynamic fountain displays or circulating water for other feature applications. Unlike some pumps, it cannot draw water from a level below its inlet when used in-line, so proper placement is crucial for optimal performance. The pump is designed for continuous operation, meaning it can run 24/7, ensuring a constant and beautiful water flow in your pond or feature. Its motor and electrical components are encapsulated in epoxy resin, providing a safe and reliable operation even when fully submerged. This encapsulation also contributes to the pump's durability and longevity in aquatic environments.
Usage Features
The AP4800 pump offers several features that enhance its usability and adaptability to different setups. It comes with a fountain kit that includes various components for creating diverse water effects. The installation process involves attaching a 1-inch to ½-inch threaded reducing nipple to the pump outlet, followed by a Dual Control T-Piece. This T-Piece allows for the connection of a telescopic riser, which can be adjusted to the desired height and secured with a threaded locking nut, ensuring the fountain nozzle protrudes vertically from the water.
For added versatility, the T-Piece also features a stepped hosetail locking nut on its side outlet. This allows for the connection of optional accessories such as a filter or a waterfall. A Flow Adjustment Knob on the T-Piece enables users to vary the water flow between the fountain head and the waterfall outlet, providing customizable water effects. If the second outlet of the T-Piece is not required, it can be closed. It's important to note that this T-Piece is specifically designed for submerged applications and is not suitable for dry mount setups.
When positioning the pump, it should be placed on a stable surface, free from sludge, sand, and other debris, ensuring it is fully covered with water. The pump should be located at a depth that prevents it from sucking air from the surface. The integrated suction cup feet allow for secure placement on both horizontal and vertical surfaces within the pond or water feature. Once properly installed and positioned, simply push the plug into a power supply outlet and switch it on to activate the pump.
The pump's construction includes plastic impellor parts and ceramic shafts, with no exposed metal. This makes it suitable for use in salt water applications, expanding its range of potential uses beyond freshwater ponds. The robust bearing and shaft design eliminates the need for oil or grease lubrication, simplifying maintenance and reducing the risk of contamination in the water.
Maintenance Features
Maintaining the Aquapro AP4800 is straightforward, thanks to its design with a single moving part – an impellor set – which facilitates easy cleaning and upkeep. Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure the pump's longevity and efficient operation.
Before performing any maintenance or adjustments, it is imperative to disconnect the pump from the mains power supply to ensure safety. The unit should then be removed from the water. The internal filters and sponges are prone to clogging over time, so regular cleaning (at least once a month) is recommended to maintain strong water flow and prevent the motor from burning out or other damage. All Aquapro Pond & Fountain pumps are water-cooled, and any restriction or blockage can lead to overheating and permanent damage.
To clean the pump, first, remove the fountain set by unscrewing it from the top of the pump. Inspect the nozzles for blockages and clean them with a suitable brush if necessary. The filter sponge should be maintained regularly; when the flow starts to reduce, it's time to check and clean it.
Accessing the internal components for cleaning involves un-clipping the front filter cage by pressing in the two catch tabs on either side and pulling it forward. The Internal Bio Sponge can then be removed and cleaned. If an optional pre-filter block sponge is used, it should be slid off the threaded core and washed. It is advisable to clean sponges in a bucket of pond water to preserve beneficial bacteria, avoiding tap water with chlorine. Users should also check the sponges for wear and tear and replace them if needed.
To maintain the impellor, locate the locking tab near the outlet on the impellor cover. Click the tab out to unlatch it from the motor body. Then, turn the Impellor Cover in an anti-clockwise direction to the stop position and lift it off, separating it from the pump motor body. Carefully lift out the impellor assembly, taking care not to break the ceramic shaft. The black disc behind the blades is an integral part of the impellor assembly. Clean the impellor with clean water and a suitable brush. Regular inspection and cleaning of the impellor are vital, as a clogged cooling path around the motor can cause damage. If the impellor assembly shows signs of wear or damage, it should be replaced, as it is a consumable part.
Reassembly is the reverse of the disassembly process. Reinstall the impellor into the motor body. To correctly place the Impellor O-Ring around the black disc, firmly hold the disc with one hand and stretch the O-Ring over the disc, carefully positioning it in the groove. Ensure the O-Ring does not roll forward between the black disc and the motor body. With the impellor in place, carefully position the impellor cover back on and rotate it clockwise until it locks into position. Finally, slide the locking tab back into place to secure the cover.