Andrew Edwards Posted January 13, 2014 Share Posted January 13, 2014 Our 1800 performed perfectly during Panto but after a break of a couple of weeks, it now will not produce fog. All I can hear from the unit is a faint buzz when calling for fog. I can see that there is some air pockets in the line but the pump is not even slightly moving these through. Is this indicative of pump failure? Cheers. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
timsabre Posted January 13, 2014 Share Posted January 13, 2014 Our 1800 performed perfectly during Panto but after a break of a couple of weeks, it now will not produce fog. All I can hear from the unit is a faint buzz when calling for fog. I can see that there is some air pockets in the line but the pump is not even slightly moving these through. Is this indicative of pump failure? Cheers. Yes. The rubber seals in the pump do wear out over time, especially if it has been left dry. If the pump has been left with an air bubble in it, this could cause it. Replacement pumps are widely available, it's an easy and fairly cheap fix. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Andrew Edwards Posted January 14, 2014 Author Share Posted January 14, 2014 Just to close this thread. I took the pump out with the intention to source a new one from [popular auction site] for £20. During the search, I discovered that this pump is used extensively in coffee and espresso machines and there is a thriving hobbyist community when it comes to making the magic brown liquid. I discovered this french site and this blog which has a few nice dismantled pump images and diagrams. I stripped the pump and couldn't see any obvious issue such as wear or debris. I put the pump back in, cleared the line and then charged it full of fluid *bleurgh* :( before connecting back on the pump . This has done the trick and is now back to working order. :D Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
timsabre Posted January 14, 2014 Share Posted January 14, 2014 Probably dry seals. I would get yourself a spare pump, because you will probably find that this happens again... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
J Pearce Posted January 15, 2014 Share Posted January 15, 2014 For reference charging them with a syringe is easier on the taste buds. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
KevinE Posted January 16, 2014 Share Posted January 16, 2014 On the Ulka pumps at least, I've had repeated problems with the outlet non-return valve rubber seal swelling and jamming shut, so the pump gently vibrates but can't pump. I assume it's due to a reaction between the rubber and some unsuitable fog fluid. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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