How to clean return pump

[SSalty]

My Eheim return pump has been in use for about 8 months and I have never taken it out and cleaned it. I am going to tackle it this weekend. I am sure there are hard calcium deposits encrusted around the pump's mechanisms. Which is the best way to clean the pump and be able to put it back in the tank no more than an 2 hours later?

Thanks :Cheers:

 

[Bifferwine]

Hot water and a hard-bristled brush (like a bottle brush or dish brush) should do the trick. If that doesn't do it, soak it in a vinegar solution then rinse with hot water.

I haven't cleaned my return pump in over a year. I've tried, but the plumbing is completely stuck together and I can't undo it. NDB tried to undo it and couldn't get it without risking breaking the pump :(

 

[yote]

Its probably been a year since I cleaned my return pump.Probably need to clean it this weekend myself.

 

[Oscarsdad608]

Just let it run in a bucket with hot water and vinegar for an hour. Wash rinse and repeat.

 

[SSalty]

Is it bad to take apart the pump?

 

[Bifferwine]

Nope. I take apart my pumps to clean them. (Well, I should say, the parts that pop off readily).

 

[Rcpilot]

Just let it run in a bucket with hot water and vinegar for an hour. Wash rinse and repeat.

Thats an excellent idea!! :Cheers: