Industrial pumps are the heartbeat of countless operations, from food processing and manufacturing to wastewater treatment and chemical production. When pumps fail or operate inefficiently, the impact on your business can be significant: downtime, production losses, and increased maintenance costs.
That’s where expert pump repair becomes essential.
Pumps & Accessories specialises in professional pump repair in Johannesburg, providing diagnostics, maintenance, and complete refurbishment for Waukesha Cherry-Burrell, FMC pumps, and APV valves. With state-of-the-art technology and decades of hands-on experience, our team ensures that your pumping systems are restored to peak performance quickly.
Common Pump Problems and Their Solutions
Identifying pump issues early can save time and money and reduce long-term wear. Below are some of the most frequent pump issues we encounter, along with recommended troubleshooting tips and solutions.
Pump Is Not Priming (Air Locked)
Symptoms:
- Pump runs, but no flow is observed
- Gurgling or air sounds from intake
Possible causes:
- Air leaks in the suction line
- Inadequate fluid supply
- Damaged impeller or seal
Solution:
- Inspect and tighten fittings on the suction line
- Ensure the fluid source is available, and valves are open
- Replace worn impellers or mechanical seals
Expert Tip: Pumps that aren’t self-priming must be manually primed or modified with a priming system.
Excessive Noise or Vibration
Symptoms:
- Loud knocking or grinding sounds
- Shaking pump or motor
- Increased bearing wear
Possible causes:
- Cavitation due to low suction pressure
- Misalignment of pump and motor
- Worn bearings or damaged impeller
Solution:
- Ensure proper suction conditions (NPSH)
- Realign coupling and drive components
- Replace worn components and balance impeller if needed
We use precision alignment tools and vibration analysis to restore quiet, balanced operation.
Pump Leaking Fluid
Symptoms:
- Dripping or pooling around seals or casing
- Pressure drop during operation
Possible causes:
- Worn or failed mechanical seal
- Damaged casing gasket
- Cracked housing
Solution:
- Replace mechanical seals and gaskets
- Pressure-test casing for micro-cracks
- Re-machine sealing faces if necessary
Our team stocks genuine seal kits and parts for Waukesha, FMC, and APV units, ensuring fast, reliable fixes.
Decreased Flow or Pressure
Symptoms:
- Slow fluid delivery
- System pressure is lower than expected
Possible causes:
- Blocked or clogged suction/discharge
- Impeller wear or corrosion
- Incorrect pump size for application
Solution:
- Clean piping and filter elements
- Inspect and replace damaged impellers
- Re-evaluate the system design and match the correct pump
We offer both repair and application consultation to ensure the correct pump is being used for the job.
Why Choose Pumps & Accessories for Pump Repair in Johannesburg?
When your operation relies on consistent, efficient fluid movement, your pump repair provider must be experienced, responsive, and fully equipped. Here’s why Pumps & Accessories is the trusted partner for leading industrial and processing businesses across Southern Africa:
- Specialist Repairs for Waukesha, FMC, and APV Equipment: We are deeply familiar with the mechanical designs, parts, and common failure modes of these brands, ensuring faster and more accurate repairs.
- State-of-the-Art Workshop Facilities: Our workshop enables fast turnaround times without compromising quality.
- Minimised Downtime: We understand that every hour your equipment is offline costs money. That’s why we offer rapid fault analysis and on-demand part replacement to get you up and running quickly.
- Full Maintenance and Reconditioning Services: From seal replacement to bearing overhauls and complete rebuilds, we restore your pump to its factory condition or better.
Our Pump Repair Process
- Initial inspection and disassembly
- Failure diagnosis and reporting
- Quotation and repair plan
- Cleaning, machining, and component replacement
- Assembly, testing, and quality control
- Delivery and optional on-site installation
Each unit is thoroughly tested to ensure performance before it’s returned to service.
FAQs: Pump Repair
What types of pumps do you repair?
We repair a wide range of industrial pumps, including Waukesha Cherry-Burrell positive displacement pumps, FMC piston and plunger pumps, and APV valves and accessories.
How fast can a pump be repaired?
Most pump repairs are completed within a few days, depending on the availability of parts and the severity of the damage. Emergency services are also available.
Do you offer on-site repairs?
Yes, our technicians can assess and perform minor repairs on-site. Larger repairs are handled in our Johannesburg workshop.
Can you repair obsolete or discontinued pumps?
Yes. We often recondition and source parts for older or legacy systems. Contact us with your pump details for a customised solution.
Restore Your Pumps with Confidence
When your pump breaks down, it shouldn’t bring your entire operation to a halt. With expert pump repair services in Johannesburg, Pumps & Accessories ensures that your equipment is restored to top condition quickly, efficiently, and cost-effectively.
Whether you’re dealing with a failing seal, a worn impeller, or a total pump failure, our team is ready to assist with industry-leading service and support.
Contact Pumps & Accessories today for expert pump repair, spare parts, and technical assistance. Let us help you protect your productivity.