Watchman Condensate Pump

andersonj56

I’ve got a Watchman condensate pump motor that will not spin. When the float switch connects, the motor hums. Is there a way to spin the impeller manually to see if something is blocking it?

EBEBRATT-Ed

I would split the pump and check the impeller. Check the power first to make sure your getting the correct voltage. Maybe you have an electrical issue. Also check amps when it is trying to start. Check contacts in float switch for pitting or damage

Also if the motor has a capacitor on it it could be a bad capacitor, you could check that.

You could remove and take it to a motor shop if the motor is bad but if it is a small motor a new one is probably more cost effective.

If you jamb a screwdriver with the power off into the motor to spin it you will likely damage something

Pumpguy

Typically these pumps are powered with 56J frame motors. 56J motors have a screwdriver slot in the opposite end of the shaft. Impellers are secured to the 56J motor shaft with a 7/16-20 right hand thread.

Remove the plug from the top of the motor and this will expose the slot in the end of the shaft. Use a large screwdriver to try to turn the shaft.

You want to try turning in a clockwise direction. If the impeller is stuck, turning counter-clockwise could unscrew the impeller from the motor shaft.

The most common cause of seized pumps with 56J motors is seized motor bearings. It's always the lower, pump end bearing. To repair, you will need a seal kit and motor bearings. The most common motor bearing used in these motors is a 203 series bearing. For replacements, I prefer using double sealed bearings. For the NTN bearings I use, the cat # is 6203LU. These are available from most bearing suppliers, and I am sure online as well.

Caveat: Your pump or motor may be different so the above may not apply.