Pump water re-crystalizing

ruston · #1 10-31-2000

Hey, everyone!
The water in my pump keeps re-crystalizing, causing my pump to seize. This is due to the water becoming cold. I have an oil-filled heater in my float room, but I'm hesitant to leave it on all of the time. I've thought of either filling a hot water bottle several times a day (not practical) or setting one of those amphibian heaters (looks like a rock. plugs into any 110 outlet. It's meant to be left on constantly, that's why I thought of it.)near the pump. I'm curious about your feedback.
Also, I wanted to suggest that tank owners place an aquarium pump in their tank when not in use, to keep the water circulating. Because, even in the best insulated tanks the water has a tendency to be cooler the farther away from the heater. The pump I bought was $20 or 25. I let it get fully submerged so I don't have to mess with tubes or anything.
thanks,
ruston

Administrator · #2 10-31-2000

Hello ruston

I had also salt crystalisation problems. Solution temperature i think is not the problem, to verify this place a cup of epsom solution at room temperature and it will not crystalise. I have also heat the water filtration tubes with no improvement.
I problem is that many pumps have metal parts inside the impeler, usualy the saft.I use to valves (in and out) and a third valve to purge the water lines. What type of tank you have,is it well insulated?

Thanks

ruston · #3 10-31-2000

My tank is homemade. Started with a waterbed frame, built the sides up to 3ft tall. I have 2" styrofoam insulation underneath the liner. 2" insulation all around the outside plus foil bubble insulation. Finally, I have a layer of bubble insul. resting directly on the water. However, the insulation is extremely loose right now, so it isn't doing a very good job. I'm surprised you say it isn't a temperature issue. My heater went out on me years ago and the tank was full of crystals. Salt goes into solution much easier when the water is warm, so it would make sense that it would crystalize if cold.
Anyway, what do you think is a possible solution?
thanks,
Ruston

Administrator · #4 11-01-2000

Close the external solution line and flush the pipes.Water temp i think is not the main factor in crystalisation.Do you have a liner inside the tank?

Thank's

ruston · #5 11-01-2000

I have a 30 mil vinyl liner. What other factors are there?
r

Administrator · #6 11-03-2000

Check PH level and adjust to standard.