One minute, your pump is just “a little off.” The next, it’s bringing your entire line to a halt. We’ve seen it too many times, plants pushing through subtle performance issues until it’s too late. If you catch the early pump failure signs, you can save tens of thousands in lost productivity, not to mention expensive damage to connected systems.
Here’s how to spot the trouble before it shuts you down.
1. Pressure Drops That Don’t Bounce Back
A sudden drop in pressure is a red flag, but what matters more is how long it stays that way. If your pump isn’t recovering or it’s running at half-efficiency, it could be internal wear, a damaged impeller, or leaking seals. Ignoring this sign risks full failure.
2. Unusual Noises During Operation
Rattling. Grinding. Whining. None of these should ever come from a properly working pump. Strange noises usually signal mechanical friction, misalignment, or parts breaking loose inside. Waiting it out? That’s a gamble you don’t want to take.
3. Heat Levels That Keep Climbing
Pumps run warm, but overheating is something else entirely. If the housing or bearings are too hot to touch, it may point to poor lubrication, internal blockage, or motor stress. Overheating is one of the top reasons for emergency pump repair, and once a motor burns out, the repair cost spikes fast.
4. Leaking Seals or Puddles Near the Base
Any visible leaking, even minor, deserves immediate attention. It’s a direct sign of wear, and if fluid is escaping, air may be entering, causing cavitation, reduced flow, and damage to the pump’s internal components. Left unchecked, this can trigger pump failure within days.
5. Increased Vibration and System Imbalance
Vibration is often brushed off as “normal” wear. However, changes in vibration, especially when combined with noise or pressure issues, usually mean serious internal damage is developing. Shaft misalignment, bent impellers, or unbalanced rotors can all lead to system-wide issues if not caught early.
We Know What’s at Stake—Let’s Prevent the Shutdown
Call Hanson Gear Works Before It Goes Too Far!
We don’t just repair pumps; we keep operations moving. When you call us, we bring decades of experience to the table. We understand how critical uptime is for your plant, and we act fast to diagnose and fix the issue.
From replacing worn seals to full pump rebuilds, we’ll give you honest answers, quick service, and results that last. If you’re seeing any of these pump failure signs, or even just have a bad gut feeling, don’t wait.
Let’s fix it before it breaks everything. Contact Hanson Gear Works for emergency pump repair in Houston now.
