Harbor Freight Tools 68476 Troubleshooting, Problem, Possible Solutions, Possible Causes

Troubleshooting

Problem		Possible Causes		Possible Solutions
Pump runs, but		Disconnect power cords immediately		Disconnect power cords immediately
will not deliver		to prevent damage from running dry.		to prevent damage from running dry.
any water.	1.	Pump “airlock”.	1.	Drill a 3/16 IN. diameter air bleed hole
		Impeller trapped in an air bubble.		through the Discharge Pipe just
				above the Lower Base.
	2.	Shut off valve closed (if installed).	2.	Open valve.
	3.	Filter clogged.	3.	Clean out dirt and debris from filter.
	4.	Impeller clogged.	4.	Remove Volute. Clean out dirt and debris
				from Impeller. Then replace Volute.
	5.	Discharge Pipe frozen or blocked.	5.	Thaw pipe and/or remove debris.
	6.	Optional check valve stuck or	6.	Examine and correct check valve.
		installed backwards.
Pump won’t	1. Check power connections and circuits/fuses.		1.	Consult with an electrician.
start or run.	2.	Water level too low.	2.	Allow water level to rise above the
				Float Switch Operation ON Height
				or move Pump to a lower location.
	3.	Filter clogged.	3.	Clean out dirt and debris from filter.
	4.	Impeller clogged.	4.	Remove Volute. Clean out dirt and debris
				from Impeller. Then replace Volute.
	5.	Motor damaged or worn out.	5.	Pump must be replaced.
Excessive noise	1.	Debris in impeller.	1.	Remove filter, if equipped.
or vibration.				Clean impeller. Then replace filter.
	2.	Discharge pipe restricted.	2.	Clean pump and discharge pipe.
				Straighten flexible hose.
	3.	Worn bearings.	3.	Pump must be replaced.
Pump starts	1. Water temperature too high.		1.	Do not exceed 77° F (25°C).
and stops too	2.	Back flow of water from discharge pipe.	2.	Install or inspect optional check valve.
frequently.
	3.	Extension cord used.	3.	Eliminate use of extension cord.
				Have licensed electrician install
				GFCI‑protected outlet near pump if needed.
Pump does		DISCONNECT POWER CORDS FIRST		DISCONNECT POWER CORDS FIRST
not shut off		TO PREVENT SERIOUS INJURY.		TO PREVENT SERIOUS INJURY.
automatically.	1.	Pump Cord not connected through	1.	Plug Pump Cord into back of
		Float Switch Cord plug.		Float Switch Cord plug.
	2.	Float Switch stuck.	2.	Check for free movement of Float Switch.
				Clear debris away from beneath Float Switch.
	3.	Check valve not installed	3.	Make sure check valve is properly
		properly or functioning.		installed and in working order.
	4.	Defective Float Switch.	4.	Unplug Pump from its electrical outlet.
				Do not use until qualified technician
				checks Pump for proper operation.

Follow all safety precautions whenever diagnosing or servicing the tool.

Disconnect power supply before service.

Page 6 For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353. Sump Pump manual