Pump Won't Pull Water After Winter: Impeller and Suction Checks

1.5 HP Pond Pump Fails to Prime After Seasonal Startup

Pump worked last year. This spring: no water despite priming. Suction screen cleared, no visible leaks near pump.

Troubleshooting Sequence

1. Verify suction line integrity: Even tiny air leaks prevent priming. Re-tape all threads, check glued joints
2. Inspect pump internals: Remove volute, check impeller and diffuser for debris, wear, or damage. Replace shaft seal when reassembling
3. Test suction lift: 20 ft horizontal + vertical lift may exceed pump's practical limit (~15-18 ft for shallow well jet pumps)
4. Consider professional service: Pump shops often cheaper than irrigation companies for pump-specific work

Key Insight

"Very small leaks cause loss of suction." Methodical connection inspection is the highest-yield first step.