This document provides comprehensive care and operating instructions for various Pondmaster and Magnetic Drive pumps, including models 9.5, 12, 18, 2-7, 250-700, 24/36, and 24/36. The pumps are primarily designed for water circulation in aquatic environments such as fountains, ponds, and aquariums.

Function Description

These pumps are magnetically driven centrifugal water pumps, designed for efficient water movement without the need for seals or oil, which eliminates wear and potential leaks. They can be used either submerged in water or in an inline configuration. When used inline, connections are made directly to the pump's inlet and outlet ports, which typically feature NPT threads (3/4" for models 9.5, 12, 18; 1/2" for models 2-7, 250-700; and 1" for models 24/36). All electrical components are fully encapsulated in epoxy, ensuring safety and durability in wet conditions. The design emphasizes energy efficiency, consuming approximately half the energy of traditional motor-driven pumps. A prefilter is included with many models to prevent debris from clogging or damaging the pump, ensuring continuous and uninterrupted service.

Usage Features

General Operation: The pumps are intended for pumping water only and should not be used with oil, solvents, or gasoline. While they can run without water, continuous dry operation for more than 30 minutes may cause damage. For inline piping, centrifugal pumps cannot draw water from a lower level; therefore, the pump must be positioned below the water level and filled with water to initiate operation. Air must be able to escape from the outlet for the pump to start. When connecting threaded fittings, it is recommended to use Teflon pipe tape instead of glues or solvents. The pump cover is not designed to support long pipe runs or to correct pipe misalignment.

Electrical Precautions: All pumps are supplied with a grounding conductor and a grounding-type attachment plug. To minimize the risk of electric shock, it is crucial to connect the pump only to a properly grounded, grounding-type receptacle. A "drip loop" should always be provided in the cord below the level of the receptacle or plug to prevent water from traveling along the cord and reaching the electrical outlet. The National Electric Code mandates the installation of a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) in the branch circuit supplying fountain or pond equipment. Users are strongly advised to unplug the unit from its power source before any installation, servicing, or if it appears not to be working. Never reach into the water to remove the plug or the pump; always turn off the circuit first. Do not immerse the plug in water.

Specific Model Considerations: For models 9.5, 12, and 18, a 1½" inside diameter hose is recommended for maximum flow. For models 2-7 and 250-700, the inlet and outlet ports have ½" NPT threads. For models 24/36, the outlet size is 1" MPT and the inlet size is 1" FPT. The pump model number is typically located on the pump near the electrical cord.

Maintenance Features

Routine Cleaning and Inspection: The pump cover should be removed periodically to clean and inspect the impeller assembly. The impeller is the only user-serviceable part and can be pulled out of the pump body. It is not designed to be disassembled further, except for cleaning in saltwater or hard water applications. If the impeller is worn or broken, the entire assembly should be replaced to restore the pump's original capacity.

Addressing Accumulations: Magnet impeller assemblies require routine cleaning to remove scale or calcium buildup, especially in saltwater or hard water environments. This cleaning should be performed at least once every three months, or more frequently depending on water conditions. Pondmaster PUMPGUARD™ WATER PUMP MAINTENANCE SOLUTION (sold separately) is recommended for this purpose. To use PumpGuard, disconnect power, remove the pump from water, position it with the volute inlet facing upwards, pour PumpGuard into the inlet until full, allow it to soak for 2-3 minutes, thoroughly rinse with clean water, and then return the pump to service. For severe buildup, the magnet can be disassembled from the impeller by pulling them apart (which may require a strong pull), and one end cap will come off. The shaft and bearing inside the magnet can then be soaked in PumpGuard, rinsed, and reassembled, ensuring no washers are lost.

Preventing Crust Formation: Pumps taken out of service for an extended period with fluid inside may develop a crust, which can prevent subsequent starting. To prevent this, saltwater pumps should be flushed with fresh water before storage.

Cord Care: Always inspect the power cord for sharp bends, which can cause premature cracking. Never use the power cord to lift or move the pump.

Base Plate Removal/Attachment (for certain models): To remove the base, strike it with moderate force in the direction toward the pump cover. The latch will bend, and the base will slide off the housing. To attach the base, slide it onto the pump cover side of the housing (latch first) and then onto the dovetail mounting tracks until the latch snaps.

Safety Reminder: Ponds can be dangerous for small children. Never leave children unsupervised near a pond.

Pondmaster 02710 - Page 2

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