How to Clean a Cat Water Fountain Pump

A cat water fountain may offer your pet flowing water, but it needs frequent cleaning. Pump maintenance is crucial, although the drinking tray and water tank are easy to clean.

Pet hair, dust, food particles, and other debris can build up around the pump and its parts. This buildup may slow water flow, make the fountain louder, or cause the pump to malfunction.

Cat water fountain pumps are easy to clean. A tiny brush, clean water, and a few minutes of attention can keep your fountain running nicely.

Why Does a Cat Water Fountain Pump Need Cleaning?

Pumps move water from the fountain tank to the sipping tray. The pump can encounter loose hair, dust, and tiny particles from the fountain as water flows through the system.

Hair and debris are caught via a changeable foam pre-filter in several PETKIT wireless pumps. These foam and pump components must be examined and cleaned periodically.

Regular pump cleaning may help:

• Maintain a steady water flow
• Reduce unusual pump noise
• Prevent hair and debris from restricting the pump
• Make it easier to identify damaged or worn components
• Keep the complete fountain easier to maintain

Petkit suggests frequent fountain cleaning to keep the device running well. Its fountain cleaning package contains a thin brush for hard-to-reach spots.

How Often Should You Clean the Pump?

Cleaning frequency depends on your pet’s behaviours, the number of pets utilising the fountain, and your home’s water quality.

Every time you clean and refill the fountain, examine and rinse the pump. Instead of waiting till water flow decreases, clean more thoroughly consistently.

The PETKIT EVERSWEET MAX manual advises weekly water tank cleaning and monthly deep cleaning. It also states that water quality and fountain use determine frequency.

You may need to clean the pump more frequently when:

• Several pets share the fountain
• Your cat sheds heavily
• Food regularly falls into the water
• The fountain is kept in a dusty area
• Visible residue appears inside the tank
• Water flow becomes weaker or noisier

What You Will Need

Prepare the following items before cleaning your cat water fountain pump:

• A small fountain or pump-cleaning brush
• A soft sponge
• Clean water
• A dry or slightly damp cloth
• A small bowl for holding removable components
• Tweezers, when required for removing the impeller

Avoid using abrasive scourers or tools that could scratch or damage the pump. A narrow brush is useful for cleaning the water outlet, pump chamber and other small spaces.

PETKIT Australia offers a cleaning kit containing a brush and sponge designed for PETKIT fountains, bowls and other pet drinking products.

Before You Start

After turning off the fountain, unplug its power supply before removing parts.

The internal arrangement of PETKIT fountains may vary; however, some contain a replaceable wireless pump. Always study your fountain’s user manual before disassembling the pump.

Avoid submerging the fountain’s electrical base or control module. Replace washing or soaking these components with a dry or slightly moist towel, according to PETKIT guidelines.

How to Clean a Cat Water Fountain Pump Step by Step

1. Turn Off and Empty the Fountain
2. Remove the Pump
3. Remove the Foam Pre-Filter
4. Open the Pump Cover
5. Remove and Inspect the Impeller
6. Clean the Pump Chamber
7. Rinse the Pump Thoroughly
8. Reassemble the Pump
9. Clean the Rest of the Fountain
10. Refill and Test the Fountain

Why Is My Cat Water Fountain Pump Still Noisy?

A noisy pump does not always mean that it needs to be replaced. Check the following common causes first.

The Water Level Is Too Low

A pump may become louder when there is not enough water surrounding it. Refill the tank without exceeding its maximum fill line.

Some PETKIT Water Fountains include low-water detection and automatically stop when the water level becomes too low. 

The Pump Is Not Seated Correctly

Make sure the pump is sitting flat inside its designated groove. A pump that touches the side of the tank may create additional vibration.

The Impeller Is Dirty

Remove the pump cover and inspect the impeller chamber again. A strand of hair or a small amount of residue can interfere with movement.

Air Is Trapped in the Pump

Turn the fountain off, make sure the pump is fully submerged and restart it. This may help release trapped air.

The Outlet Pipe Is Loose

Check that the pipe is properly attached to both the pump and water outlet. A loose connection can weaken the flow.

Why Is the Fountain Flowing Slowly After Cleaning?

If the water flow from the fountain is still weak after cleaning it, a part may be stuck, loose, or put back on incorrectly. Before you buy a new pump, check for these common problems.

Weak water flow may be caused by:

• A blocked pump opening
• An incorrectly installed impeller
• A clogged foam pre-filter
• A filter that needs replacing
• A loose outlet pipe
• Insufficient water in the tank
• The pump not sitting correctly in its groove

Turn the fountain off before checking these components.

If the pump remains weak after a complete clean, inspect it for damage. PETKIT notes that pump life can vary depending on use and maintenance and that the pump should be replaced when necessary.

Common Pump-Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

A few simple mistakes can damage small parts, lower the flow of water, or make the pump make more noise. If you want your cat water fountain pump to keep working right, don’t do these things.

• Only Cleaning the Outside
• Forgetting the Foam Filter
• Running the Pump Without Enough Water
• Immersing the Electrical Base
• Using Excessive Force

Keep Your Cat’s Fountain Running Smoothly

Cleaning your cat water fountain pump is a small maintenance task that can make a noticeable difference to water flow, noise and overall fountain performance.

Make pump inspection part of your regular fountain-cleaning routine. Remove trapped hair, clean the impeller chamber, rinse the foam filter and ensure every component is installed correctly before restarting the fountain.

Need Help with Your PETKIT Fountain?

Looking for model-specific setup, cleaning or maintenance instructions? Visit the PETKIT Australia User Manual page to find guides for compatible PETKIT products.

Upgrade Your Pet’s Drinking Station

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Keep your fountain clean and operating smoothly with compatible filters, replacement pumps and maintenance products. Shop PETKIT water fountain accessories.

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