A cat water fountain is a great way to ensure your pet stays hydrated and healthy. However, if the pump stops working, it can be frustrating for both you and your furry companion. There are several reasons why a cat water fountain pump may stop working, and in this article, we will explore 10 things to check to get it up and running again.
The first thing to check is whether the pump is plugged in and turned on. It may sound obvious, but sometimes the simplest solutions are the best. If the pump is plugged in and turned on but still not working, the next thing to check is whether the impeller is clogged with debris. This can happen if the fountain is not cleaned regularly or if it is placed in an area with a lot of dust or pet hair.
Another common issue is air getting trapped in the pump, which can prevent it from working properly. If none of these solutions work, it may be time to replace the pump. By following these 10 tips, you can troubleshoot your cat water fountain pump and get it working again in no time.
Table of Contents
Check the Power Source
When your cat water fountain pump is not working, the first thing to check is the power source. Make sure that the power cord is plugged in and the outlet is working correctly. Check for any damage to the cord or the plug.
If the power source is not the issue, check the motor. The motor is responsible for moving the water through the fountain. If the motor is not working, the water will not flow, and the pump will not work.
To check the motor, remove the pump cover and inspect the impeller. Make sure that the impeller is not blocked by debris or dirt. If it is, clean it with a brush.
If the motor is still not working, it may be time to replace the pump. Look for a replacement pump that is compatible with your cat water fountain. Check the product specifications to ensure that it is the right size and type for your fountain.
Remember, always unplug the fountain before performing any maintenance or repairs. Safety first!
Inspect the Water Level
One of the most common reasons why a cat water fountain pump may stop working is due to low water levels. It is essential to inspect the water level regularly to ensure that the fountain is functioning correctly.
If the water level is too low, the pump may not be able to pull in enough water to circulate through the fountain, resulting in low water flow or no water flow at all.
To inspect the water level, turn off the fountain and remove the top cover. Check the water level and add more water if necessary. Be sure not to overfill the fountain, as this can also cause the pump to stop working.
Regularly checking the water level ensures that the pump is not working harder than it needs to, which can cause it to wear out faster.
By inspecting the water level, you can ensure that your cat’s water fountain pump is working correctly and providing your furry friend with fresh, clean water at all times.
Check for Debris
One of the most common reasons for a cat water fountain pump not working is debris buildup. Debris such as cat hair, dirt, and food particles can accumulate in the pump and prevent it from working correctly.
To check for debris, unplug the fountain and remove the pump. Inspect the pump for any visible debris and clean it thoroughly. You can use a soft-bristled brush or toothbrush to remove any debris that is stuck in the pump.
If the debris is difficult to remove, you can try soaking the pump in warm, soapy water for a few minutes. This can help loosen any debris that is stuck in the pump.
Once you have cleaned the pump, reassemble the fountain and plug it in. Check the flow of water to ensure that it is working correctly. If the water flow is still not working, move on to the next step.
It’s important to note that debris buildup can be prevented by regularly cleaning and maintaining your cat water fountain. Make sure to clean the fountain and filter at least once a week to prevent debris buildup and ensure that the water flow remains consistent.
Inspect the Pump and Impeller
Inspecting the pump and impeller is crucial when your cat water fountain pump is not working. The pump is responsible for circulating water through the fountain, while the impeller drives the pump. If either of these parts is damaged, the fountain will not work properly.
To inspect the pump, first, unplug the fountain and remove the pump from the fountain. Check for any visible damage, such as cracks or breaks in the housing. Next, check the impeller for any damage or debris that may be blocking it. If the impeller is dirty, clean it with a soft-bristled brush.
If the pump and impeller appear to be in good condition, check the motor. The motor is responsible for powering the pump, so if it is not working correctly, the pump will not work either. Check the motor for any visible damage or debris that may be blocking it.
If you find any damage to the pump, impeller, or motor, it may be time to replace them. You can find replacement parts online or at your local pet store.
Inspecting the pump and impeller is just one of the things you can check when your cat water fountain pump is not working. By taking the time to inspect and clean these parts, you can help ensure that your cat has access to clean, fresh water at all times.
Source: Petmate 29027 Fountain Lid and Pump Replacement – iFixit
Check for Blockages
One of the most common reasons why a cat water fountain pump might not work is due to blockages. Blockages can happen due to debris, hair, or other particles that accumulate in the fountain over time. When this happens, water flow is restricted, and the pump may stop working altogether.
To check for blockages, start by unplugging the fountain and removing the pump. Inspect the pump for any visible debris or blockages. If you see any, remove them carefully with a clean cloth or a soft-bristled brush.
Next, check the fountain’s tubing for any blockages. If you see any, remove them carefully using a pipe cleaner or a small brush. Be sure to clean the tubing thoroughly to ensure that water flow is not restricted.
If you cannot see any visible blockages, try running water through the tubing to see if it flows freely. If it does not, there may be a more serious blockage that requires further investigation.
Overall, checking for blockages is an essential step in troubleshooting a cat water fountain pump that is not working. By taking the time to clean and remove any blockages, you can ensure that your furry friend has access to clean, flowing water.
Inspect the Fountain and Pump Parts
First, ensure that the fountain is clean and free of any debris. Check the water level and make sure that it is not too low. If the fountain is dirty, clean it with a mild detergent and rinse it thoroughly.
Next, inspect the pump and make sure that it is not clogged or damaged. Check the impeller and make sure that it is not broken or cracked. If the impeller is damaged, replace it with a new one.
If the fountain is made of plastic, check for any cracks or damage to the unit. If the fountain is made of stainless steel, check for any signs of rust or corrosion. If the fountain is damaged, replace it with a new one.
Check all the connections and make sure that they are secure. If any of the connections are loose, tighten them with pliers or a wrench.
Ensure that the power cord is not damaged and that it is plugged into a working outlet. If the power cord is damaged, replace it with a new one.
Inspect the safety features of the fountain and make sure that they are working properly. Check the automatic shut-off feature and make sure that it is functioning correctly.
If you have tried all the above steps and the pump still does not work, it may be time to replace it with a new one.
Check for Noise or Odor
If your cat water fountain is making excessive noise or has an unpleasant odor, it may be time to investigate the cause. Here are a few things to check:
- Clean the fountain: Over time, debris can build up in the fountain and cause it to make noise or smell bad. Clean the fountain thoroughly with a mixture of water and vinegar, lemon juice, or baking soda to remove any buildup.
- Replace the filter: If the fountain has a filter, it may need to be replaced. A dirty or clogged filter can cause the pump to work harder and make more noise.
- Check the impeller: The impeller is the part of the pump that moves the water. If it becomes clogged or damaged, it can cause the pump to make noise or stop working altogether. Clean or replace the impeller as needed.
- Adjust the water level: If the water level is too low, the pump may make noise as it struggles to move the water. Make sure the water level is high enough to cover the pump.
- Use the right cleaning products: Some cleaning products, like bleach or chlorine, can damage the pump or cause it to make noise. Stick to mild cleaning solutions like water and vinegar or lemon juice.
By checking these simple things, you can help keep your cat water fountain working properly and minimize noise and odor.
Consult a Veterinarian
If your cat’s water fountain pump is not working, it is important to consult a veterinarian. A veterinarian can help determine if your cat’s behavior is normal or if there is an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.
Lack of water can lead to dehydration, which can cause serious health problems in cats. A veterinarian can help you determine if your cat is dehydrated and recommend the best course of action.
In addition, a veterinarian can help you determine if your cat’s water fountain is safe and free from infection. They can also recommend the best type of filtered water for your cat.
It is important to always consult a veterinarian before making any changes to your cat’s diet or environment. They can provide valuable advice and help ensure the safety and well-being of your furry companion.
Source: ASPCA
Conclusion
In conclusion, a cat water fountain is a great way to ensure that your cat is getting enough water. However, it can be frustrating when the pump stops working. If you find that your cat water fountain pump is not working, there are several things you can check before you give up and buy a new one.
First, check the power source and make sure that the pump is plugged in and the outlet is working. Next, check the pump itself and make sure that it is clean and free of debris. If the pump is clean and still not working, you may need to replace it.
Remember to clean your cat water fountain regularly to keep it in good working order. This will help to prevent pump issues from occurring in the first place. By following these tips, you can ensure that your cat has access to clean, fresh water at all times.
My name is Danny Jackson and I’m the CEO and Chief Editor behind Petloverguy.com. After spending a decade working with vets and private clients as an animal behavioral and nutritional specialist I co-founded Pet Lover Guy to help other pet parents learn how to interact with, and make the most of the time that they spend with their adopted and rescued best pet friends.
Working with Ella, our chihuahua rescue, we seek to help all dog and cat lovers have the happiest life possible.
