How to Replace Your Circulation Pump
How to Replace Your Circulation Pump
If you're experiencing issues with your circulation pump and have decided to replace it, we have put together a step-by-step guide to help you feel confident in performing the replacement.
Note: Before you begin, it's crucial to turn off both the power and water supply for your safety. Make sure that the person performing the replacement is qualified to handle electrical work.
While not all installations are identical, the following steps should provide a general guideline. There are many manufacturers of circulation pumps; some of the largest include Grundfos and Wilo.
Estimated Time: 1 hour
Tools You'll Need: Pipe wrench (2), Phillips-head screwdriver, wire cutters.
Step 1: Start by locating the current location of your circulation pump.
If there are isolation valves, there's no need to drain the system.
Step 2: Once you've located the circulation pump, it's a good idea to inspect it before removing it. If you haven't already purchased a replacement part, measure the existing circulation pump carefully, note the brand, and its settings. Take photos of the electrical wires and connections to help you with the new installation.
Step 3: As mentioned at the beginning but worth emphasizing, it's essential to turn off the power before starting the replacement. Never replace a circulation pump while the power is on since it operates with electricity. Turning off the power is straightforward and is done at your property's electrical panel or fuse box.
Step 4: After ensuring the power is off, the next step is to shut off the isolation valves (if available) on the circulation pump to stop the water supply. You can turn off the valves by hand or with a wrench. If the old circulation pump doesn't have isolation valves, you'll need to drain the heating system of water before you can remove the pump.
Step 5: Once the valves are closed or the heating system is drained, it's time to loosen the nuts that hold the circulation pump in place. Turn the nuts counterclockwise and then remove the old pump. Note how the electrical cables are connected, typically a brown, blue, and yellow/green cable.
Step 6: Replace the existing gaskets (2, one at each connection) with new ones. Then, place the new circulation pump in position and ensure it seals tightly. You can perform a quick leak test by opening the valves and potentially refilling the pressure.
Step 7: Now, reconnect the circulation pump, referring to the photos you took in Step 2. Connect the electrical wires in the same way you disconnected them. If the circulation pump has become wet, it's crucial to dry it thoroughly.
Step 8: Turn the power back on and start your heating system by adjusting the thermostat. Once the heating system is running, check for any water leaks or drips from the new circulation pump.
Your new circulation pump is now in place. Well done!