I'd like to give some information to 'ruston' regarding his pump seizure problem (it appeared the previous thread was closed). I was having the same problem with my large spa pump connected to the tank. I assume my problem was due to temperature but will defer to more expert knowledge. I can tell you that I solved the problem by running the pump a few minutes each day to dissolve any crystal buildup in the pump. Now, it sounds like 'ruston' is using a pretty small pump so this may not work. Or he may need to run it constantly. Anyway, just thought I'd make the suggestion.
My pump is a 1/2 or 3/4 hp pump. Certainly not a baby. I cleaned it out real well. I usually run it about an hour a day. This last time I ran it for about 2 or 3 hours. The next day it was re-crystalized. Aarrgh. The ph was a little low. Haven't tried to balance it yet. Not sure how much baking soda to add. I wouldn't want to run it constantly. The water temp would go up about a degree an hour if I did. But maybe I'll set my timer to run it every few hours for a few minutes. Except for overnight, of course.
thanks,
Ruston
Hmmm. Interesting - I never check Ph. I only add water every few weeks. The density has stayed fairly constant. The heater (water bed type) is set at 96.5 and runs constantly. I also keep that blue-spa-cover-bubble-pack stuff on top of the water when I'm not using it. If I get some time, I'll post some picture of my setup on the floating list at egroups.
I'll have to check the horsepower on my pump - from your previous message I thought you were using an aquarium pump and I assume that's small.
Like stated before, Metal parts (saft) in the impeler pump is the trouble and the ph level will determine how fast the reaction will act. I use a dishwasher (metal saft) pump and flush the line after filtering. I have no more crystalisation problem.
Ah, now I understand why you're checking Ph - I'll have to check mine out. I'm assuming saft is shaft. I get crystallization after about a week of not running the pump and the temperature in the pump closet is about 65F compared to the float closet at 96.5F. That's why I figured it was a temperature thing in my situation.
My impeller is plastic and I recently replaced the spring loaded seal behind it, so I don't think metal is having anything to do with it. So, if my ph is just a little low, how much baking soda should I add?
thanks,
Ruston
Metalic parts and epsom solution will create
a chimical reaction and will afect PH level.
Use proper pool or spa products to adjust the correct PH level